Marine and Freshwater Biology

Situated on the coast of Cardigan Bay with a hinterland rich in rivers, streams and lakes, Aberystwyth University is the ideal location to study of Marine and Freshwater Biology. Easily accessible habitats range from mountain streams bearing salmon and trout and unique habitats for freshwater invertebrates, through estuaries of international importance, to sandy beaches, rocky reefs, salt marsh and a bay that is home to the largest residential population of bottlenose dolphins in the UK.

We have two research vessels that give you hands-on experience of the range of skills used by professional marine and freshwater biologists. A modern aquarium facilitates aquarium systems for experimental studies of marine and freshwater organisms. Passionate teaching staff that conduct world-leading research across a wide range of marine and freshwater subject areas - you may have even seen some of them on TV documentaries explaining the secret lives of aquatic organisms.

You can participate in two residential field courses, each focused on either marine or freshwater biology. Our wonderful museum and herbarium are full of historic specimens collected from around the globe by generations of famous Aberystwyth University scientists. We have also invested over £55 million in the infrastructure of student facilities.

We have exchange agreements with universities in Europe, USA, Canada, and elsewhere, so you can apply to spend all or part of your 2nd year studying marine and freshwater biology overseas. You’ll miss Aberystwyth, but you’ll love the new perspectives international study can bring.

Our course is delivered through lectures, workshops, tutorials, fieldwork and practicals and residential field courses. You will receive thorough training in the scientific method and concepts relating to the evolution and ecology of natural systems with an emphasis on marine and freshwater environments. You will be assessed through essays, practical exercises, oral presentations, worksheets, reports, statistical exercises, dossiers, posters, portfolios, wikis, reflective diaries, literature reviews, magazine articles field notebooks and exams. The majority of teaching staff at the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences are qualified to PhD level and are research active. Vocational courses also have staff whose background lies within the industry. The Institute has a large number of research only staff with whom students may have contact.

Our Marine and Freshwater Biology graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to enter a wide range of careers including Ecological consultancy, Environmental management and conservation, Teaching and Scientific journalism. This degree also frequently leads to postgraduate research at Masters and PhD level.

Many students also gain research experience volunteering in the research laboratories of IBERS lecturers or through organisations such as Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre.

Our degree at Aberystwyth University teaches you a broad range of skills such as observation, research, analysis, critical evaluation and reflection. The Institute has close links with many learned societies such as the Society of Biology which is a great way of networking with those in your field.