The programme has a modular structure and has been designed to progress from an appreciation of what the challenges and the theoretical, legal and policy contexts for marine planning and management interventions are, to how these challenges are addressed through the application of research and planning tools, and finally to how this understanding can be applied to develop appropriate recommendations and results in a specific area of marine planning and management through a client based project; students explore particular areas of interest and acquire and develop relevant skills through selection of 2 optional modules and the preparation a dissertation; a combination of teaching, learning and assessment methods are employed; lectures, seminars and tutorials are combined with practical sessions (small group project work and field visits).