This course aims to provide knowledge and practical understanding of the scientific basis for management of coastal water resources. The course introduces the physical, ecological cultural and socio-economic characteristics of coastal water resources (estuaries, lagoons, reefs, inner shelf environments). It investigates the temporal and spatial variation in these resources and assesses contemporary patterns of human use in this context. Contemporary approaches to coastal water resource management are introduced and discussed. This course can be taken individually or combined over a period of time towards a Postgraduate Certificate of Professional Development.