Undergraduate course
MSci (Hons)
Marine Biology
Join a renowned marine biology degree and advance your research skills with access to some of Europe’s best marine facilities and a stunning coastline. Experience hands-on marine biology at its best, both in cutting-edge labs and out in the field.
Our typical offer
128 UCAS points
Secure your place this September
Already applied or yet to apply? Get guidance on the next steps you need to take to start a course in 2026.
Learn from the best
We're at the forefront of knowledge in how marine ecosystems work, how organisms function, evolve, behave and interact. This fundamental knowledge also translates into management and conservation.
From the laboratory to field
Developing rigorous scientists through practical experience in core research skills and cutting-edge techniques and analyses.
Facing global challenges
We'll prepare you to find the answers to fundamental questions and solutions for the challenges associated with climate change, habitat loss, pollution and sustainable food production.
About
Our city's seafront location hosts one of the highest concentrations of marine scientists in Europe with links to internationally renowned research institutions, so you won't just be studying a degree in Marine Biology, you'll be joining a hub of activity for the study of marine life.
Professor Richard Thompson OBE FRS
Richard is a world-leading marine scientist and is at the forefront of pioneering research into the causes and effects of marine litter.
What is an integrated masters programme?
Our integrated master's programmes are undergraduate programmes that contain an extra year of study at postgraduate level. Combining undergraduate and postgraduate study into a single continuous programme.
An integrated master's degree allows you to gain a broad knowledge base from your undergraduate studies and then progress to more advanced or specialised work at postgraduate level.
- To stand out from the crowd.
- You're interested in enhancing your research journey.
- To improve your future career direction.
- To fast track your career.
- To advance your subject or clinical knowledge.
- You're interested in developing leadership, managerial and research skills.
This course is for you if...
you're passionate about exploring marine life, from coastal margins to the deep sea
you seek hands-on experience in both laboratory and field settings
you are passionate about understanding and finding solutions to the challenges facing marine ecosystems
you want to develop the practical, intellectual and scientific skills to become a practising research marine biologist
Details
Years 1
In your first year, you’ll explore the core biological and oceanographic themes that underpin marine biology, studying topics from biodiversity and ecosystems to evolution and microbiology. Through a blend of lectures, small‑group tutorials, laboratory practicals and fieldwork, you’ll begin developing the scientific and analytical skills that will support your employability and future career development.
You’ll also take part in two week‑long field courses that introduce you to the spectacular marine environments of South West England. These experiences will help you get to grips with the fundamentals of scientific investigation, including data collection, analysis and interpretation, while giving you first‑hand insight into the rich coastal and marine habitats right on your doorstep.
Core modules
BIOL131
Cells: The Building Blocks of Life
20 credits
Explore the molecular and genetic features that allow cells to function. You’ll investigate cell biology in the context of plant and animal development and learn how cells process complex information to give biological outcomes which have implications at the cellular, tissue and whole organism levels. This module provides a vital grounding in cell biology and development.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BMSMB01
Marine Biology Student Support Stage 1
Receive structured support in developing foundational skills essential for marine biology. This module complements your Level 4 studies by tracking your progress in laboratory techniques, fieldwork, data handling and transferable skills, ensuring you establish a strong base for future marine science learning.
MBIO123
Marine Biology Field Course
20 credits
Immerse yourself in marine biology and learn to think and work like a scientist. Through hands-on taxonomy practicals, statistics workshops and career sessions, you’ll build skills in data analysis, communication and marine diversity. The highlight is a non-residential field course in Devon and Cornwall where in small groups you design a study, collect and analyse data, and present findings in one intensive week!
75% Coursework
25% Tests
MBIO161
Evolution and Behaviour
20 credits
Explore the evolutionary principles that shape species and their behaviour. You’ll examine genetic inheritance, population genetics, adaptation, fitness, speciation, and the fossil record using key examples and practical classes to deepen understanding. Historical developments in evolutionary thought provide context for modern interpretations, helping you approach biology through the lens of evolutionary adaptation.
50% Examinations
50% Tests
MBIO162
Biodiversity
20 credits
Investigate what biodiversity is, where it occurs and why it matters. You’ll study global patterns of diversity, the biology of key taxa and the threats facing ecosystems today. Through this module, you’ll develop a strong understanding of how biodiversity is valued, assessed and conserved, while exploring the ecological principles that underpin these efforts.
50% Practicals
50% Examinations
MBIO163
Introduction to Marine Biology
This module introduces students to the dynamic world of marine biology, exploring marine ecosystems, marine organisms and key research areas. Through hands on fieldwork and laboratory sessions, students build practical research skills while developing confidence in effective scientific writing and communication.
OS110
Oceanography
This module introduces the science that shapes our oceans, exploring the physical and chemical processes that drive ocean circulation and mixing, and influence the character of marine environments worldwide. Key scientific principles are introduced along the way, helping students build a strong foundation for further study in ocean and marine sciences.
Year 2
In your second year, you’ll continue to strengthen your practical skills, working along the stunning South Devon coastline, as well as during a residential field course currently held in the Algarve, Portugal. You’ll learn a range of techniques for collecting, handling and analysing scientific data, and develop a deeper understanding of the biology of marine organisms and the ecology of shallow‑water habitats.
Depending on your choice of modules, you can receive specialist training in areas such as underwater sampling, cutting‑edge molecular biology or broader ecological principles.
Core modules
BMSMB02
Marine Biology Student Support Stage 2
Enhance your competence in field, lab and analytical skills across your Level 5 studies. This module ensures continued skill development through timetabled activities and structured tracking, helping you prepare confidently for advanced marine biology modules and independent research at higher levels.
MBIO229
Methods in Marine Biology, Coastal Ecology and Oceanography
20 credits
Develop core practical skills needed for field studies in marine biology, coastal ecology and oceanography. You’ll learn data-collection techniques, experimental design principles, and methods for analysing and communicating scientific information. Through hands-on practice, this module prepares you for more advanced fieldwork and research across marine and coastal systems.
100% Coursework
Optional modules
BIOL204
Principles of Conservation Biology
20 credits
Explore the biological principles essential for effective conservation. You’ll examine population ecology and conservation genetics to understand extinction risk and persistence of species and study their relevance to conservation management. This module strengthens your ability to apply core ecological concepts to real world conservation challenges and prepares you for more advanced conservation study.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BIOL214
Ecology
20 credits
Build a strong understanding of ecological principles at the levels of individuals, populations and communities. You’ll explore how ecological processes operate and species interact in both aquatic and terrestrial systems, and examine how scientists search for general theories in ecology. This module provides a solid conceptual framework for advanced ecological analysis and problem-solving.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
GEES2309
Weather, Climate and Meteorology
20 credits
What drives our weather and shapes our climate? Dive into the physics of the atmosphere, from thermodynamics to global circulation. You will analyse real meteorological and satellite data to understand weather systems and forecasting. By mastering these physical principles, you will uncover the scientific evidence behind climate variability and the critical role of meteorology in a sustainable future.
50% Coursework
50% Remotely delivered assessments
MBIO213
Coastal Biodiversity and Ecology Field Course
20 credits
This module provides practical experience in marine ecological field methods and coastal research. You’ll conduct scientific research on some of the world’s most unspoiled, spectacular coasts, collecting data on African mammal diversity, analysing results and presenting findings in a scientific report. Then we move to the rocky shore to explore biogeographical patterns, coral-algal interactions and animal behaviour.
100% Coursework
MBIO217
Ecology of Shallow Water Marine Habitats
20 credits
Study the ecology of shallow water environments, some of the most diverse and productive habitats on Earth. You’ll explore the organisms living within them, the environmental factors shaping these systems and the methods used to analyse ecological data. This module strengthens your ability to evaluate and communicate ecological findings in marine science.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO221
Marine Molecular Biology
20 credits
Discover how molecular techniques revolutionise our understanding of marine organisms and ecosystems. You’ll build foundational knowledge of molecular concepts and methods, learning how researchers study genetic, physiological and ecological processes in the marine environment. This module provides essential preparation for advanced work in marine molecular science.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO222
Ecophysiology of Marine Animals
20 credits
Explore how marine animals function within ecological and evolutionary contexts. You’ll study physiological processes, environmental responses and the adaptations that allow species to thrive in diverse marine environments. This module blends conceptual understanding with applied examples to strengthen your grasp of how physiology shapes ecological interactions.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO226
Experimental Marine Biology Field Course
20 credits
Gain hands-on experience conducting scientific research during a residential overseas field course. You’ll learn to describe organisms and habitats accurately, design experiments, collect and analyse data, and present scientific results. This intensive module builds confidence in field and laboratory techniques essential for advanced marine biological research.
70% Coursework
30% Tests
MBIO227
Biological Oceanography Field Course
20 credits
Join a residential field course aboard research vessels to study offshore marine ecosystems. You’ll sample a variety of habitats, analyse biological and physico-chemical parameters and explore how these factors interact to shape marine communities. This module provides practical experience in oceanographic field methods and interdisciplinary marine research.
60% Coursework
40% Tests
MBIO228
Biology of Marine Organisms
20 credits
Explore the fundamental biology of marine organisms, focusing on diversity of form and function in key groups. Develop an understanding of the evolution and anatomy of organisms across the marine tree of life including marine vertebrates, invertebrates and algae. Build an understanding of marine biodiversity and how morphological and physiological traits allow organisms to inhabit a range of marine environments.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
OS201
Global Ocean Processes
20 credits
Examine the oceanographic processes that structure the global ocean and how they’re impacted by climate change. You’ll study how changes in currents and water properties at different scales affect marine organisms, food webs and biogeochemical cycling. This module develops a deep understanding of the physical, biological and chemical drivers of ocean function.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
OS204
Waves, Tides and Coastal Dynamics
20 credits
Study how waves and tides form, interact with coastlines and drive sediment movement. You’ll examine coastal processes such as erosion and accretion and learn to apply physical principles to real coastal settings. This module provides a strong foundation for understanding and predicting coastal change in a dynamic environment.
100% Coursework
OS205
Managing Human Impacts in the Marine Environment
20 credits
Explore how human activities, from fisheries to energy extraction, affect marine ecosystems. You’ll study pollution, biodiversity loss and management strategies used to mitigate impacts. Through case studies and evaluation of conservation tools, this module builds your ability to assess and manage human pressures on marine environments.
100% Coursework
OS207
Scientific Diving
20 credits
Enhance your research capabilities through professional level scientific diving. Suitable for students with the HSE SCUBA qualification, this module trains you in underwater photography, surveying and sampling techniques. You’ll plan and execute multidisciplinary dive projects, developing skills used in research, industry and environmental monitoring.
100% Coursework
OS210
Remote Sensing of the Environment
20 credits
Learn how remote sensing technologies, from satellites to drones, are used to study terrestrial and marine environments. You’ll develop skills in analysing and applying remote sensing data using industry standard software and explore how these tools help solve real world environmental challenges.
50% Coursework
50% Tests
Optional placement year
Between your second and third year, you’ll have the opportunity to do a work placement, for a six or 12-month period.
As well as providing valuable hands-on experience outside of the classroom, a placement can prove to be a great networking opportunity and provide a deeper, working level understanding of the career paths that are available following your degree.
Core modules
BPIE336
Marine Biology related Placement
0 credits
Spend up to 48 weeks gaining real-world experience in a professional marine biology setting. This extended placement allows you to apply knowledge gained in your first two years, build workplace skills and prepare for your final stage of study. It provides valuable insight into career pathways and industry expectations in marine biology.
Year 4
In your final year, you’ll have the freedom to focus on the areas of marine biology that inspire you most. A major component of the year is your personal research project, where you’ll design and carry out an in‑depth investigation, applying the scientific skills, field techniques and analytical methods you’ve developed throughout your degree.
You’ll also choose from a range of specialist modules shaped by the cutting‑edge research interests of our academic staff. These options allow you to refine your expertise, tailor your studies to your career ambitions and engage with the latest developments in marine biology, ensuring you graduate confident, skilled and ready for your next step.
Core modules
BMSMB04
Marine Biology Student Support Stage 4
Consolidate and refine your advanced marine biology skills as you complete your degree. This module supports your progression through Level 6, helping you strengthen professional, analytical and research competencies and ensuring you graduate with a strong, workplace-ready skillset.
PROJ302
SoBMS Project
40 credits
Undertake an independent research project from concept to completion. You’ll develop a research question, design and execute your study, analyse results and communicate your findings. This module strengthens your ability to work independently, solve problems and reflect on your academic and professional development.
75% Coursework
25% Practicals
Optional modules
BIOL310
Global Change Biology
20 credits
Investigate how climate change is reshaping plant and animal biology and distributions. You’ll explore current predictions for ecological change over the coming century and examine how this knowledge informs conservation action. By connecting climate science with ecological practice, the module prepares you to engage with one of the most urgent challenges facing biodiversity.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BIOL311
Ecotoxicology
20 credits
Examine how pollutants affect aquatic organisms and ecosystems. You’ll study key concepts, analytical techniques and evaluation methods used to assess contaminant impacts. Through applied examples, you’ll learn how ecotoxicology supports environmental protection and informs policies aimed at safeguarding water quality and ecosystem health in a changing world.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO317
Behavioural Ecology
20 credits
Explore the theories behind key models in behavioural ecology, including optimal foraging, game theory and habitat selection. Using empirical studies, you’ll evaluate how animals make decisions and how behaviour evolves. This module provides a deeper understanding of how behaviour shapes ecological outcomes.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO324
Speciation and Diversity
20 credits
Examine how species form, diversify and evolve. You’ll investigate species concepts, mechanisms of speciation and the evolutionary processes driving biological diversity. The module also explores how diversity has changed through evolutionary time, giving you a comprehensive foundation in evolutionary biology and biodiversity science.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO329
Marine Biology: An Evolutionary Approach
20 credits
Explore current advances in marine biology through an explicitly evolutionary lens. You’ll critically evaluate primary literature while exploring how evolutionary processes shape marine organisms, communities and ecosystems. This module deepens your ability to interpret scientific research and appreciate the evolutionary and indeed societal context driving modern marine biology.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
MBIO339
Ecology and Conservation of Marine Vertebrates
20 credits
Investigate the ecology of large marine vertebrates and the pressures they face from a range of key threats including fisheries bycatch, whaling, and anthropogenic noise. You’ll study methods for surveying and monitoring populations and analyse real case studies that highlight current research. This module equips you to understand and address conservation challenges affecting large marine vertebrates.
60% Coursework
40% Examinations
MBIO341
Biological Oceanography
20 credits
This module explores the large-scale biological patterns, processes and functioning of systems in key ocean and coastal ecosystems. You will examine the reciprocal interactions between large-scale biological and oceanographic processes, across spatial and temporal scales.
60% Examinations
40% Practicals
MBIO363
Fish and Fisheries
20 credits
Explore the biology of fishes and how it informs sustainable fisheries management. Drawing on key research on behaviour and physiology to population dynamics and community processes, you’ll evaluate implications for aquaculture and wild capture fisheries. Through discussions, workshops and seminars with industry professionals, you’ll develop evidence based skills to support the sustainable management of fish populations.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO364
Conservation Physiology
20 credits
Explore how physiological approaches help solve real conservation problems in marine systems. You’ll examine how marine organisms respond to natural and human-driven stressors, and evaluate how fundamental physiology principles can inform their conservation. Through discussion based learning, this module strengthens your ability to apply a physiological approach to conserve species and ecosystems in a changing world.
60% Examinations
40% Coursework
MBIO365
Tropical Marine Ecology
20 credits
Dive into the ecology of tropical marine ecosystems and explore the patterns, processes and interactions that shape them. You’ll study how species and communities respond to environmental change, investigate ecosystem functioning and develop key research skills. This module provides a rich foundation for understanding tropical biodiversity and its global significance.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
OS303
Ocean Dynamics
20 credits
Investigate large and mesoscale ocean circulation, including geostrophic currents, eddies and exchanges between shelf and deep seas. You’ll develop quantitative skills for analysing field data to interpret and understand the physical processes driving large scale ocean flows. This module provides a strong foundation in dynamic oceanography.
100% Coursework
OS304
Marine Ecosystem Conservation
20 credits
Explore threats to global marine and coastal ecosystems, from tropical mangroves to temperate pelagic waters. You’ll investigate conservation tools, monitoring approaches and ecological impacts of human activities. By combining case studies with analytical skills, this module equips you to evaluate and support marine conservation action.
60% Coursework
40% Examinations
OS306
Coastal Geomorphology and Estuaries
20 credits
Explore how different coastal landforms develop and change over time. You’ll study geomorphological archetypes, examine how waves, tides and sediment shape coastlines, and analyse how human activities interact with natural processes. This module strengthens your ability to interpret dynamic coastal environments and understand their ecological and societal importance.
60% Coursework
40% Examinations
OS307
Marine Conservation Policy and Planning
20 credits
Discover how marine governance and conservation policy are shaped and implemented. Explore how policies protect marine ecosystems and threatened species, how regulatory authorities use management tools, and how approaches like marine spatial planning support sustainable resource use. Using case studies, this module builds critical thinking, equipping you with the knowledge to effectively manage marine environments.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
Final year
The final year is research-intensive and includes four specialist modules: a year-long 60-credit research project, a 20-credit research skills module and two bespoke 20-credit modules exploring contemporary issues in both pure and applied marine biology research. These modules are designed to enhance research competence and provide you with cutting-edge knowledge and transferable skills relevant to research careers and other high-level graduate employment options. You will be fully integrated into research groups within the School of Biological and Marine Sciences, allowing you to be part of our dynamic research culture, and receive close academic supervision throughout.
Core modules
BMS500
SoBMS Postgraduate Methods Module
20 credits
This module aims to equip students with the practical skills and contextual framework for conducting high quality research. Emphasis is placed on workshop opportunities to acquire and practice research planning, analysis, communication, writing and oral presentation skills.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
MBAM5106
Advanced Research in Marine Biology
20 credits
Discover the interdisciplinary research carried out across the Marine Biological Association and the University. You’ll learn the techniques and approaches used by active researchers and receive guidance on preparing scientific work for popular science articles and posters. This module provides a valuable introduction to professional marine research activities.
100% Coursework
MBIO500
MSci Research Project
This module offers the opportunity to undertake an independent, original research project aligned with the student's interests in Marine Biology. Embedded within an active research group in the School of Biological and Marine Sciences, students design, execute and communicate their project, experiencing the full research process whilst developing advanced academic, professional and personal skills.
MBIO507
Topics in Marine Biology: Societal Relevance and Solutions
This module explores key applied and emerging issues in marine biology through student-led discussion sessions. Emphasis is placed on the societal relevance of current research and its potential to inform real-world solutions. Students develop skills in interpreting, synthesising, and communicating marine biology research through a public engagement group talk and an individual infographic.
Other marine biology courses
We offer a suite of marine biology degrees that vary in focus, giving you the opportunity to tailor your degree to your passions.
All three courses share a common first year and we allow you the flexibility to transfer onto one of the other specialist BSc courses up until the end of Year 1.
Includes marine biology, ecotoxicology and conservation physiology modules. Fieldtrips have included the UK and Portugal.
Includes specialist modules in marine ecology, conservation and applied aquatics. Fieldtrips have included the UK and South Africa.
Includes specialist ocean processes, and waves tides and coastal dynamics modules. Fieldtrips have included the UK and Sweden.
Defence Universities Alliance
鶹ýӳ is a
founding member of the Defence Universities Alliance, a collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, the UK Armed Forces and the higher education sector, helping equip you with specialist, in-demand skills.
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
Benefit from fieldwork, near and far
At 鶹ýӳ, you’ll go beyond the classroom, applying theory to real-world research through local and international field trips.
From the diverse coastline of the South West to global destinations, you'll explore marine ecosystems firsthand, gaining invaluable experience that enhances both your degree and career prospects.
Previous students have studied rocky shores, seagrass meadows, and estuaries along the UK’s coast, as well as tropical and temperate marine environments further afield.
Fieldwork gives you an end-to-end experience of conducting a scientific study from developing hypotheses, designing experiments, collecting data, analysing results and communicating findings through to scientific reports. The skills you gain from fieldwork are highly sought after by employers and can include:
- data and sample collection and analysis in varied marine habitats
- experience using scientific equipment and technology, from sonar mapping to ROVs
- scientific writing and reporting, preparing you for careers in research and conservation
- teamwork in challenging and dynamic field conditions
- problem-solving in real-world ecological research
- communicating project work and ideas through oral presentations.
My favourite memory of 鶹ýӳ is probably the field trip to Portugal...the group research projects were great and it’s amazing how much you can learn in a week.
Tom, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology graduate
From bird-watching and behaviour logging to sampling rock-pool organisms and using a beam trawler net along the shore, Noah shares his hands-on field trip experience traveling down the River Erme estuary to Mothercombe Beach.
“The main reason I chose this uni is because they have a massive emphasis on fieldwork and getting your hands dirty – the most fun part of it.”
Noah, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology student
Facilities to support your learning
We have a selection of cutting edge facilities to enhance your experience and provide the best learning environment
Situated on the shores of 鶹ýӳ Sound as part of our waterfront campus, the Marine Station offers labs and classrooms extending out into the natural environment. It is also the base for our research vessels and a centre of excellence for diving.
Practical sessions, individual project work and research all benefit from our fleet of research vessels.
Specialist labs
Wet laboratory for sample examination and analysis.
A cutting-edge research hub driving innovation in marine, environmental, and biomedical sciences.
One of the main reasons I came to study at 鶹ýӳ was the facilities and the fact that I could use them and that they weren’t reserved for research and external bookings. It was great being able to use equipment that I would be using out in the field – it really helped me to develop a deeper understanding of the field.
Luke, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology graduate
Expand your horizons with a research expedition
Research expeditions offer the chance to assist our expert researchers in the field, both locally and internationally.
Unlike course-based field trips, these expeditions span diverse disciplines, allowing students to choose a project that aligns with their interests while gaining hands-on research experience and valuable skills.
Previously students have ...
- taken part in cetacean surveys aboard the University yacht, Take The Helm, between 鶹ýӳ and the Isles of Scilly
- carried out assessments of south-west UK fish nurseries, catching, identifying and measuring juvenile fish in a number of key estuary sites
- spent two weeks on a field course in North Sulawesi (Bunaken and Bangka islands) where they learned about the biodiversity of coral reefs and how to monitor them
- enjoyed a week in the Azores, collecting data to assess the relative abundance of different colour forms of Clouded Yellow butterflies.
I felt very fortunate to have the opportunity to be taught about coral reefs by experts while directly observing the reef. I don't think many learning experiences can top that.
.jpg)
Fish netting in the UK
Diving in Indonesia
Research expedition to Costa Rica
Gain a professional diving qualification alongside your studies
Study at the only University in the UK offering you the opportunity to gain the HSE Professional SCUBA certification alongside your degree.
Explore and monitor underwater ecosystems as you learn to conduct underwater surveys, assess marine biodiversity, and gain industry-recognised diving qualifications to enhance your career prospects.
The course is an intensive four week full-time programme. Practical tasks are undertaken by all candidates, day and night, including preparation of project plans and risk assessments. Please note that places on the course are offered subject to availability and there are some costs to incur.
Keep up to date
Follow us to get a greater insight into what you might experience on a marine biology degree at 鶹ýӳ.
Learn from experts
Our links with world renowned research institutions strengthen our community and research opportunities.
We have strong links with institutions including:
The good thing about the University’s location is that 鶹ýӳ is home to a number of marine organisations (the Marine Biological Association, 鶹ýӳ Marine Laboratory, Shark Trust, etc.), which provide countless opportunities for volunteering, collaborations and networking. For me, two separate bouts of volunteering at the MBA led to further research positions overseas through connections and referrals.
Grace, recent graduate.
Dr Benjamin Ciotti
Associate Professor of Marine Biology
Dr Manuela Truebano
Associate Professor in Marine Ecophysiology
Dr Miriam Reverter
Lecturer in Marine Biology
Enrich your studies – join the Marine Biology Society (MBS)
The 鶹ýӳ Marine Biology Society (MBS) are involved in anything and everything Marine Biology or Ocean Science. The committee, and members, are passionate about our oceans and the wonderful marine world we find beneath the surface.
Throughout the year, with your membership, you will have access to the exclusive events, activities and fun which the MBS offers, including; socials, academic talks from many internal and external speakers, documentary and film screenings, rock pooling sessions, photography competitions, trips, placement opportunity talks ... and much, much more.
Life in 鶹ýӳ
鶹ýӳ's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
鶹ýӳ makes you more passionate about the ocean and studying here kept me on the right path. I wanted to be by the ocean, I wanted to dive, I wanted to surf and I wanted to study with the best marine biologists in the country. 鶹ýӳ was fantastic for me and I will always love it.
Rory Moore, Head of Conservation at the
As a marine biology graduate your career options are as expansive as the oceans you study. Whether you want to become a research scientist or work in the field of conservation, we’ll assist you throughout your degree to ensure that by the time you graduate you’ll be en-route to the career of your choice.
This is a competitive but fascinating and dynamic field and our graduates can be found all over the world ...
- In research institutions
- Working with charities and NGOs
- Monitoring the environment and fisheries
- Working on the filming and / or production of nature documentaries
- Promoting important marine conservation messages
- Providing commercial environmental or ecological consultancy services
- Influencing government policies through research and campaigning
- Inspiring and educating the scientists and conservationists of tomorrow
- Communicating science through scientific journalism
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys from the latest available data covering the three years of 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
The benefits of completing a placement
My placement experience has played a big part in how I envisage my future career. It has given me a point of reference that I can use to gain perspective every time I feel overwhelmed by stressful situations – a final goal that can drive my life. Without this placement opportunity, I don't think I would be as motivated as I am to pursue a career in marine research.
Francisco worked as a Research Intern at the Instituto de Investigacións Mariñas, Spain.
While we can equip you with as much hands-on experience and opportunity to put theory into practice as possible, a placement can provide you with that little bit extra to make you stand out from the crowd.
Our students have taken part in placements all over the world; they have helped to further research, worked on specialist projects, protected fragile marine environments and developed HSE diving skills. Some have used the experience to help them decide on a career path and many been offered graduate employment with their placement organisations.
Where will your work placement take you...?
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in
Full-time study
£9,790 per year
£9,790 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£815 per 10 credits
£815 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
The Government has announced that tuition fees from Academic Year 28/29 onwards will be subject to automatic annual inflationary increases, which we believe will be at a similar rate to the recent annual increases to fees, and may continue to be inflation based. The University may increase annual tuition fees in line with the Student Contract and the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government from time to time.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies and we advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
More information about
fees and costs of studying .
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
£19,200 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying .
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to field-based activities or equipment requirements.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at 鶹ýӳ, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Secure your place this September
Use our helpful application support tool at any time to find out what you need to do to secure your place at the 鶹ýӳ.
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
128 UCAS points
128 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) English and Mathematics at grade C / 4 or above.
A levels
128 points, including a minimum of 3 A levels - including a grade B or above in Biology.
BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/ QCF Extended Diploma
A typical offer would be DDD, depending on the BTEC and units studied. Please include details of units in your UCAS application or contact Admissions for further advice.
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
All Access courses
Science related Access Diplomas are considered. Must include a minimum 15 credits in biology units, Typically, we would require 36 Level 3 credits at Distinction and 9 Level 3 credits at Merit.
T level
Enquire within with modules.
International Baccalaureate
33 overall, to include Higher Level Biology grade 5. English and Maths are accepted within as GCSE equivalent at Higher Level Grade 4 or Standard Level Grade 5.
Other qualifications
Extended entry requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
C162
C162
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
鶹ýӳ
鶹ýӳ
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
128 UCAS points
128 UCAS points
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
C162
C162
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
鶹ýӳ
鶹ýӳ
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the 鶹ýӳ.
.jpg)