The MSc degree in Marine Ecology corresponds to a total of 120 ECTS to be completed during 2 academic years.

During the first year, all students must attend 5 core 6 ECTS courses, plus Research Project in Marine Ecology and Seminars in Marine Ecology, each with 3 ECTS. Students must also complete an additional 24 ECTS in optional courses to attain a total of 60 ECTS.

During the first semester, all courses are held throughout the 14 scheduled class weeks while during the second semester, courses are scheduled as a sequence of intensive modules (3 weeks for 6 ECTS and 1,5 weeks for 3 ECTS course), with the exception of the two above mentioned mandatory courses. This modular organization allows students to pursue a continued training including laboratory and field work also to ensure hands-on and terrain practical activities. The 2015/2016 school year chronogram can be taken as an example of the degree organization.

The Research Project in Marine Ecology course, held during the 2.^nd semester is dedicated to the preparation and presentation of each student’s MSc dissertation plan.

During the second year, students are expected to develop and complete their 60 ECTS MSc dissertation that corresponds to a supervised research project to be completed during the second year. This project can be developed either at ULisboa or at another research institution. Public defense of the individual MSc dissertation completes the MSc degree.