Free online course learning about what's in our oceans

The University of Southampton has launched a free online course for people to learn, explore and investigate what is in our oceans.

The course is free and anyone in the world can access it to study.

The Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) is being lead by ocean explorers from the Ocean and Earth Science department from the university.

Two to three hours of studying a week will be needed to look at creatures that live on the seabed and the underwater environment they live in.

A series of recorded lectures, planned learning activities and multiple-choice tests will make up the course.

Dr Jon Copley, Senior Lecturer in Marine Ecology said, "Ocean science is as big as the oceans themselves. In this course, you will investigate an underwater realm that has been unknown for most of human history.

"By taking what you've learned and discussed it with other people who may be taking the course or your friends and family, you can join in a global debate about the future of our planet."

If you would like to register for the 'Exploring our Oceans" course, click here.