Marine Biology
UCAS Code: C160
Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)
Entry requirements
A level
We also accept other combinations equivalent to 120-128 Tariff points to include 3 A levels, with Biology at grade B. Applicants will normally need to pass the separate Science Practical Endorsement.
122-128 Tariff points from the Access to HE Diploma (Science).
Cambridge Pre-U score of 50-54, to include a Principal Subject in Biology at M2.
GCSE/National 4/National 5
5 GCSEs at grade C or above to include English, Mathematics and Science/5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above to include English, Mathematics and Science.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
27 points from the IB Diploma, to include 3 Higher Level subjects, with 6 points from a Higher Level in Biology. 4 points from Standard Level English and Mathematics (if not passed at GCSE grade C or above).
Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017)
H3,H3,H3,H3,H3-H2,H2,H3,H3,H3
To include Higher Level Biology at H3.
Acceptable when combined with other qualifications.
Acceptable when combined with other qualifications.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
Must be in a Science subject.
120-128 Tariff points, Biology at grade C.
UCAS Tariff
We've calculated how many Ucas points you'll need for this course.
About this course
This course has alternative study modes. Contact the university to find out how the information below might vary.
**Overview**
Our oceans are under threat, so there's never been a greater need for experts in marine biology. Do you have the ambition to combat the challenges facing this diverse environment and play an active and positive role in understanding and protecting marine biodiversity and the future of our oceans?
On this BSc (Hons) Marine Biology degree course, you'll learn the practical, theoretical and professional skills to start a career as a marine biologist.
You'll develop your knowledge of marine organisms, from phytoplankton to cetaceans, as well as how to protect the oceans and their delicate ecosystems against the growing threats of climate change, habitat destruction and resource exploitation. All at a university that's been carrying out marine biological research for more than 70 years.
**Accredited by:**
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.
**What you'll experience**
On this course you'll:
- Conduct fieldwork in a range of intertidal habitats, including rocky shores, estuaries, saltmarsh and mangroves
- Be based in the heart of the internationally important Solent European Marine Site
- Learn from researchers who are members of the Institute of Marine Sciences, with expertise in subject areas such as ocean acidification, plastic pollution and cetacean behaviour
- Learn to drive a powerboat, scuba dive and conduct research in a tropical environment
- Get practical marine skills on our research vessels, including a large experimental raft, a 6-metre high-speed shallow draft launch for inshore work and a suite of sampling systems including dredges, grabs and nets
- Use our laboratory facilities, state of the art microscopes, experimental research platform and aquatic centre to explore marine ecosystems and study marine organisms
You can also:
- Experience research and fieldwork overseas including the option to study seagrass, coral reef and mangrove ecology
- Get involved in local research projects such as the Solent Native Oyster Regeneration Project
- Spend time studying abroad at one of our partner institutions
**Careers and opportunities**
When you finish the course, you can apply to be a Registered Marine Scientist. You'll also meet some of the academic requirements to become a Chartered Marine Scientist.
**What can you do with a Marine Biology degree?**
Previous graduates of this course have gone on to work in:
- post-graduate research
- coastal zone management
- environmental toxicology
- marine conservation
- aquaculture industry
- marine policy
- marine resource management
You could also continue your studies at postgraduate level. Many graduates go onto study MRes Science or MSc Applied Aquatic Biology.
After you leave the University, you can get help, advice and support for up to 5 years from our Careers and Employability service as you advance in your career.
Modules
Year 1
Core modules in this year include:
- Biodiversity & Evolution
- Experimental and Graduate Skills
- Introduction to Cell Biology & Biochemistry
- Introduction to Marine Ecology and Oceanography
- Microbiology & Molecular Biology.
Year 2
Core modules in this year include:
- Animal Science
- Community Ecology and Residential Field Course
- Marine Organisms and Ecosystems
- Marine Research Skills.
Optional modules in this year currently include:
- Genetics
- Introduction to Teaching
- Microbiology
- Oceanography
- Plant Science
- Practical Boating Skills
- Scientific and Technical Diving Techniques.
Placement year (optional):
On this course, you can do an optional work placement year between your 2nd and 3rd years to get valuable experience working in industry. We’ll help you secure a work placement that fits your situation and ambitions. You’ll get mentoring and support throughout the year.
Year 3
Core modules in this year include:
- Marine Ecology and Conservation
- Fisheries and aquaculture
- Marine Ecophysiology
- 3rd year research project.
Optional modules in this year currently include:
- Environmental Microbiology,
- Global climate change in Marine Systems.
We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.
Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry and some optional modules may not run every year. If a module doesn’t run, we’ll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.
Assessment methods
You’ll be assessed through written exams, course work in the form of practical write ups, posters and oral presentations, individual research project.
You’ll be able to test your skills and knowledge informally before you do assessments that count towards your final mark.
You can get feedback on all practice and formal assessments so you can improve in the future.
Tuition fees
Select where you currently live to see what you'll pay:
The Uni
University of Portsmouth
Faculty of Science and Health
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