About the Programme

Xiamen University (XMU) has been a pioneer in marine science education for nearly a century and is widely recognised as the cradle of marine science in China. Its College of Ocean and Earth Sciences (COE) is one of China's leading marine research institutions, home to the State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science (MEL), the National Experimental Centre for Education, and the advanced Tan Kah Kee Research Vessel (R/V TKK). Building on this strong foundation, the China-ASEAN College of Marine Sciences (CAMS), the first overseas marine science college established with support from the China-ASEAN Maritime Cooperation Fund, offers internationally oriented postgraduate education at Xiamen University Malaysia (XMUM).

The Master of Science in Marine Science (MMS) and Doctor of Philosophy in Marine Science (PMS) programmes leverage the academic strengths and research expertise of both the Malaysia and China campuses, providing students with a distinctive international learning and research environment. Research areas include marine biology and ecology, physical oceanography, fisheries science, genetics, marine biotechnology, remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) applications, environmental biogeochemistry, and environmental science.

Located in Malaysia and supported by XMU's world-class expertise in marine science, CAMS provides a strategic platform for research across tropical coastal waters, the Straits of Malacca, the South China Sea, and the wider China-ASEAN region. Students have opportunities to participate in laboratory investigations, marine field sampling, data analysis, scientific seminars, research collaborations, and scholarly publications, supported by well-equipped laboratories and state-of-the-art research facilities.

Graduates develop advanced scientific knowledge, critical thinking skills, and research expertise to address complex marine and environmental challenges. They are well prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, industry, government agencies, and policy-making organisations, while the doctoral programme further develops independent researchers who are capable of advancing global knowledge and innovation in marine science.
 

Programme Highlights

• Conduct research in marine biology and ecology, physical oceanography, fisheries science, marine biotechnology, genetics, remote sensing and GIS, environmental biogeochemistry, and environmental science.
• Gain hands-on experience through marine fieldwork, laboratory research, and advanced analytical techniques.
• Access state-of-the-art laboratories, research facilities, and international collaborations.
• Benefit from the combined academic strengths and research resources of Xiamen University's Malaysia and China campuses.
   

Career Opportunities

Further Study

• PhD programmes at Xiamen University Malaysia and other leading universities for MMS graduates.

Academia & Research

• Universities, research institutes, and laboratories.

Industry 

• Marine science, biotechnology, fisheries and aquaculture, environmental consultancy, research and development, GIS, and remote sensing.

Government & NGOs

• Marine conservation, resource management,  environmental monitoring and policy, and international organisations.

Entrepreneurship 

• Aquaculture, marine biotechnology, marine products, eco-tourism, and sustainability enterprises.
   

Entry Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree (Level 6, MQF) in Marine Science or a related field or equivalent:

• CGPA ≥ 2.75: Eligible for admission, subject to approval by the HEP Senate; OR
• CGPA 2.50 - 2.74: Admission may be considered subject to an internal assessment; OR

• CGPA 2.00 - 2.49: Admission may be considered with a minimum of 5 years relevant work experience and an internal assessment.

  Candidates without a qualification in the related fields or relevant working experience must undergo prerequisite courses* determined by the HEP.

• English proficiency requirement: International applicants must achieve a minimum IELTS score of 5.0, OR MUET Band 3.5, OR an equivalent English language qualification. This requirement is waived for applicants:
  • from countries where English is the official language; or

  • who have completed previous academic qualifications with English as the sole medium of instruction.

*For other equivalent qualifications, please consult our programme counsellor.

List of Courses Offered