This course covers aspects of both the physical and biological environments of the sea and their inter-relationships. It depicts marine science as a body of knowledge and a process of continual enquiry and testing of ideas. It considers human impacts on the marine environments and how the principles and methods of science in general are used to predict and to solve the problems created by human activities.

The course includes discussion of: i) the marine environment, its physical, geological, chemical and biological characteristics and their interactions; ii) beach safety and marine biodiversity and iii) the effects of development and climate change on the marine environment and how science can contribute to providing solutions to these problems.

Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on case studies. Two to three field excursions (generally held on a weekend) take the place of weekly practicals to supplement the lectures.