Marine Biology

UCAS code: C161

Here's what University of Plymouth says about its Marine Biology course.

Join a marine biology degree with an international reputation. With doorstep access to a stunning coastline and some of Europe’s best marine facilities, you'll experience marine biology at the highest level, both in the laboratory and field.

Learn from the best We're at the forefront of knowledge in how marine organisms are composed, function, evolve and interact within ecosystems.

From the laboratory to field Developing rigorous scientists through practical experience in core research skills and cutting-edge techniques.

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.

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 marine biologist.

Year 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.

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.

Optional placement year Many of our students choose to take an optional placement year between their second and final years, gaining invaluable hands?on experience in real scientific environments. You can choose to complete a minimum six?month work placement anywhere in the world, gaining practical, career?focused experience directly linked to your studies. This is your opportunity to apply your skills in real?world settings, explore potential career paths and build valuable professional networks that can help shape your future in the field.

Final year 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.

For up to date details, please refer to our website or contact the institution directly.

For up to date details, please refer to our website or contact the institution directly.