.jpg)
Undergraduate course
BSc (Hons)
Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology
Explore marine life from coast to deep sea with a globally respected degree. Study organisms from microbes to vertebrates, understand ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation, and examine human and climate impacts on ocean life.
Our typical offer
120 UCAS points
Learn from the best
Weñޙre at the forefront of research into how we can preserve marine ecosystems and conserve marine biodiversity as we confront pressing ecological challenges.
Learn by the sea from day one
You'll gain hands-on experience from the very start, exploring marine life from the beach to our research vessels and state-of-the-art labs at the Marine Station.
Facing global challenges
Develop skills that will enable you to conserve marine life, find solutions for climate change and habitat loss, and understand the biodiversity in marine habitats.
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.
This course is for you if...
you're passionate about exploring marine biodiversity and ecosystems
you want hands-on experience in coastal and marine habitats, in the lab and the field
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 practicing marine ecologist
Details
Year 1
In your first year, youñޙll explore the core biological, ecological and marine themes that underpin marine biology and coastal ecology, studying topics from biodiversity and ecosystems to evolution and animal behaviour. Through a blend of lectures, smallñޑgroup tutorials, laboratory practicals and fieldwork, youñޙll begin developing the scientific and analytical skills that will support your employability and future career development.
Youñޙll also take part in two weekñޑlong 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 firstñޑhand insight into the rich coastal and marine habitats right on your doorstep.
Core modules
BIOL131
Cells: The Building Blocks of Life
20 credits
The cell is the basic building block of life. This module introduces you to the structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and the cell biology that allow different cells to do different things including some highly specialised cells of multicellular organisms. The module will then focus on the molecular basis that underlies cell function introducing you to the metabolic pathways and molecules that allow cells to work.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO123
Marine Biology Field Course
20 credits
This module develops core skills in effective oral and written communication and provides a toolbox of essential material on numeracy and statistics to address quantitative questions in Marine Biology. During an intensive field course, you will immerse yourself in practical aspects of marine biology, asking questions based on observations and then formulating appropriate hypotheses that can then be tested.
75% Coursework
25% Tests
MBIO161
Evolution and Behaviour
20 credits
Covers the principles underpinning evolution with a special focus on animal behaviour as adaptive traits. Module covers concepts of the genetic basis of inheritance, population genetics, selection, adaptation, function, fitness and speciation. We will use key examples and practical classes to illustrate key ideas and consider the development of some of the ideas in a historical context.
50% Examinations
50% Tests
MBIO162
Biodiversity
20 credits
This module introduces the scientific study of biodiversity. Starting with the question what is biodiversity? students go on to explore where it is, how it is distributed across the Earth, and how we value it. This leads to a discussion of how biodiversity is threatened and how we conserve it. Embedded in this big picture is an introduction to the biology of some key taxa that characterise biodiversity.
50% Practicals
50% Examinations
BMSMB01
Marine Biology Student Support Stage 1
The purpose of this module is to a) serve as a placeholder module to timetable various student support activities and b) track the progressive acquisition of a range of basic field, laboratory and transferable skills of relevance to each degree programme as delivered in the other Level 4 modules
OS110
Introduction to Oceanography
This module provides an introduction to the main physical and chemical process occurring in the world's oceans along with revision of some relevant underpinning science.
MBIO163
Introduction to Marine Biology
This module provides students with an introduction to marine biology, covering aspects such as marine ecosystems, marine organisms and key research fields. It will also start to develop confidence in effective written communication and practical research skills through field and laboratory experiences.
Year 2
In your second year, youñޙll continue to refine your practical skills along the spectacular South Devon coastline. Youñޙll learn a range of techniques for collecting, handling and analysing scientific data, while deepening your understanding of ecological theories and how they apply to shallowñޑwater marine habitats. Youñޙll also explore the major threats facing aquatic environments worldwide, building a broader perspective on the challenges shaping marine ecosystems today.
A highlight of the year is a residential field course, currently held in South Africa, where youñޙll investigate the factors that influence marine and coastal biodiversity in an incredible range of realñޑworld settings. This unforgettable experience strengthens your field skills and brings your classroom learning to life in one of the worldñޙs most dynamic marine environments.
Core modules
BIOL214
Ecology
20 credits
An understanding of basic concepts is needed to solve ecological problems. This module explores key concepts in ecology at the levels of individuals, populations and communities. The concepts are supported with examples taken from terrestrial and aquatic systems, and provide a useful insight into the search for general theories in ecology.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO213
Coastal Biodiversity and Ecology Field Course
20 credits
100% Coursework
MBIO217
Ecology of Shallow Water Marine Habitats
20 credits
Shallow water marine habitats represent some of the most diverse and productive habitats on earth. This module provides an overview of the key factors influencing their ecology and will also consider the biology of the organisms therein, the scientific study of shallow water habitats and the analysis, evaluation and communication of marine ecological data.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO229
Methods in Marine Biology, Coastal Ecology and Oceanography
20 credits
Provides the core skills and techniques to equip students to perform field studies in Marine Biology, Coastal Ecology and Oceanography. Introduces appropriate methodologies for the collection, handling and analysis of data; the scientific principles underlying experimental design and the effective communication of scientific information.
100% Coursework
BMSMB02
Marine Biology Student Support Stage 2
The purpose of this module is to a) serve as a placeholder module to timetable various student support activities and b) track the progressive acquisition of a range of basic field, laboratory and transferable skills of relevance to each degree programme as delivered in the other Level 5 modules
Optional modules
BIOL204
Principles of Conservation Biology
20 credits
Successful conservation is dependent on a thorough grasp of fundamental biological principles. The conceptual aspects of population, molecular, & evolutionary ecology which are central to understanding the dynamics of, and future threats to, extant populations of organisms are reviewed.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO228
Biology of Marine Organisms
20 credits
This module will provide an introduction to fundamental aspects of the biology of marine organisms. Particular attention is paid to the diversity of form and function within key groups of marine chloroxygenic organisms and animals and how this allows them to inhabit different marine environments.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
OS207
Scientific Diving
20 credits
This module allows suitably qualified students (HSE SCUBA or equivalent) to develop industry and research-relevant skills in measurement and monitoring in the underwater environment using professional SCUBA and related techniques. These will then be applied in a multi-disciplinary context to the planning, execution, analysis and reporting of a field-based sampling activity.
100% Coursework
OS205
Managing Human Impacts in the Marine Environment
20 credits
This module will introduce how human activities (such as fisheries, energy supply and mineral extraction) can impact the marine environment, including through pollution and biodiversity loss. The concepts of marine management and conservation will be introduced and methods of preventing and managing anthropogenic impacts will be introduced and evaluated and their role in marine conservation discussed.
100% Coursework
MBIO222
Ecophysiology of Marine Animals
20 credits
This module will develop a detailed understanding of how marine organisms work within an ecological and evolutionary context.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
Optional placement year
Many of our students choose to take an optional placement year between their second and final years, gaining invaluable handsñޑon experience in real scientific environments. You can choose to complete a minimum sixñޑmonth work placement anywhere in the world, gaining practical, careerñޑfocused experience directly linked to your studies. This is your opportunity to apply your skills in realñޑworld settings, explore potential career paths and build valuable professional networks that can help shape your future in the field.
Core modules
BPIE336
Marine Biology related Placement
0 credits
A 48-week period of professional training spent as the third year of a sandwich programme undertaking an approved placement with a suitable company. This provides an opportunity for the student to gain relevant industrial experience to consolidate the first two stages of study and to prepare for the final stage and employment after graduation.
Final year
In your final year, youñޙll 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 youñޙll design and carry out an inñޑdepth investigation, applying the scientific skills, field techniques and analytical methods youñޙve developed throughout your degree.
Youñޙll also choose from a range of specialist modules shaped by the cuttingñޑedge 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
PROJ302
SoBMS Project
40 credits
This module provides an opportunity to undertake a research project on an individually developed topic and experience the entire process of scholarly research: from problem formulation, through the design and execution of an investigation, analysis of results and presentation of outcomes. It will develop skills in independent working and self-awareness in relation to personal, professional and academic development.
75% Coursework
25% Practicals
MBIO365
Tropical Marine Ecology
20 credits
This module introduces the ecology of tropical marine ecosystems, exploring key ecological principles that shape species, communities, and ecosystem functioning. Students will examine how organisms interact with their environments, how ecological patterns emerge across spatial scales, and how ecosystems respond to environmental change, while developing an understanding of biodiversity and ecological research methods.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BMSMB04
Marine Biology Student Support Stage 4
The purpose of this module is to a) serve as a placeholder module to timetable various student support activities and b) track the progressive acquisition of a range of basic field, laboratory and transferable skills of relevance to each degree programme as delivered in the other Level 6 modules
Optional modules
BIOL310
Global Change Biology
20 credits
This module provides the student with an in-depth overview of the likely consequences of climate change for plant and animal species biology and distribution over the coming century. From this starting point we will show how an understanding of climate change biology is vital for conservation theory and practice over coming decades.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO317
Behavioural Ecology
20 credits
This module examines the theory underpinning key conceptual models in behavioural ecology (e.g. optimal foraging, ideal free distribution, game theory). These models will be critically discussed in relation to empirical studies.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO324
Speciation and Diversity
20 credits
This module deals with the nature, generation and significance of biological diversity through a discussion of recent species concepts and mechanisms of speciation in a range of organisms, with emphasis on the evolutionary processes at work. This is followed by an investigation of the nature and significance of biological diversity; how it is assessed, and how it is distributed.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO339
Ecology and Conservation of Marine Vertebrates
20 credits
Marine vertebrates are vulnerable to depletion through over fishing, industrial development, pollution and habitat degradation. This module will examine the ecology of these animals in their natural environments and explore methods for surveying, monitoring and managing populations and species. There is a strong emphasis on current research and hot topics with numerous case studies used throughout the module.
60% Coursework
40% Examinations
MBIO363
Fish and Fisheries
20 credits
This module explores the biology of fishes and its application to the science of fisheries management. There is a focus on seminal works and recent advances in the primary literature.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO364
Conservation Physiology
20 credits
This module introduces learners to this emerging field of conservation through a lecture-discussion based format. This module explores fundamental physiology principles and approaches that have been used to inform the conservation of marine species and ecosystems challenged by natural and anthropogenic stressors.
60% Examinations
40% Coursework
OS307
Marine Conservation Policy and Planning
20 credits
This module explores issues surrounding the maintenance of a healthy marine environment. It will develop an understanding of marine governance, including policy frameworks and agencies responsible for implementing marine conservation strategy. Topics include the range of measures and approaches for successful marine conservation and the importance of taking holistic approaches to management, including policy and planning
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BIOL311
Ecotoxicology
20 credits
This module provides a detailed analysis of the concepts and principles of ecotoxicology, with an emphasis on evaluation of ecotoxicological techniques and methods for assessment of impacts of pollutants on the aquatic environment.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BIOL325
Biodiversity Conservation: Science, Policy and Practice
20 credits
Are you passionate about conserving and restoring biodiversity? Engage with real case studies from diverse environments and discover the key forces driving conservation and restoration efforts at global and local scales. You'll explore the real-world challenges facing conservation practitioners - understanding concerns of stakeholders, ethical issues, animal welfare, and the influence of policy on conservation action.
100% Coursework
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.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology
Includes specialist modules in marine ecology, conservation and applied aquatics. Fieldtrips have included the UK and South Africa.
Includes specialist modules in marine ecology, conservation and applied aquatics. Fieldtrips have included the UK and South Africa.
Includes marine biology, ecotoxicology and conservation physiology modules. Fieldtrips have included the UK and Portugal.
Includes specialist ocean processes, and waves tides and coastal dynamics modules. Fieldtrips have included the UK and Sweden.
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 Universityñޙs curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the Universityñޙs policies and requirements.
Experience
Benefit from fieldwork, near and far
At ñ, youñޙll 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.
My favourite memory was Costa Rica. I went with a few lecturers on a research project for two weeks of roaming the beaches, the mangroves and going hiking and collecting samples.
Ashley, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology & Coastal Ecology graduate
The experiences Ashley gained during her degree has led her to wanting a career in research, with a particular interest in eco engineering.
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
- 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
ñޜOne of the things we try and emphasise is the catchment level approach and the fact that there are linkages between what happens up here (on Dartmoor) and what happens in the marine environment.ñޝ
The years I spent at the University were some of the best of my life, both personally and ñޘprofessionallyñޙ. The quality and diversity of the content taught is really good, but itñޙs the people that have made my experience incredible. I learnt from some of the best researchers in the field, passionate about their work and teaching, always there to push and encourage you to follow your passion and try new things, as well as from the other equally passionate students with whom I made some of the strongest friendships to date.
Louise, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology 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.
ñޜThe main reason I chose this uni is because they have a massive emphasis on fieldwork and getting your hands dirty ñޓ the most fun part of it.ñޝ
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 ñ 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.
Marine Station
Waterfront labs and classrooms at the Marine Station
Our fleet of boats
Practical sessions, individual project work and research all benefit from our fleet of research vessels.
Specialist labs
Wet laboratory for sample examination and analysis.
5G interactive microscope laboratory
Access the latest microscope technology.
LABplus
Study, practical work and lab skills support at LABplus.
I learnt so much on my course, everything from practical skills conducting ecological surveys in the field, taxonomic knowledge of marine organisms through to data analysis and report writing. I also had the opportunity to learn skills in commercial diving, power boating, first aid and sea survival, which I wouldnñޙt have had the chance to undertake had I chosen to study my undergraduate degree at another university.
Amy, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology 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 ñ 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.
Hop aboard the University's own yacht, Take the Helm, and discover what it's like to take part in a four-day marine mammal survey.
Our coast surveys perform an important function, gathering much needed data to help us understand thethreats
.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 ñ.
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 Universityñޙs location is that ñ is home to a number of marine organisations (the Marine Biological Association, ñ 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.
Graduate, Grace
Dr Robert Puschendorf
Associate Professor in Conservation Biology
Programme lead
Dr Miriam Reverter
Lecturer in Marine Biology
Dr Pete Cotton
Associate Professor in Ecology
Enrich your studies ñޓ join the Marine Biology Society (MBS)
The ñ 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 ñ
ñ'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 donñޙt 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
Life in the city
Discover what ñ and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
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
ñޜCome down to ñ and see the University ñޓ and especially the Marine Station. Speak to the subject ambassadors and ask as many questions as you like. We love to talk about our degree. And then, take a walk around ñ, especially the Hoe. This is a city that has everything within walking distance. Itñޙs beautiful and has so many opportunities for volunteering and work experience within the marine biology field.ñޝ
Graduate Ana, has remained in ñ and is now a postgraduate student studying
ResM Marine Sciences
Careers
ñ 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. ñ was fantastic for me and I will always love it.
Rory Moore, Head of Conservation at the
As a marine biology and coastal ecology student 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, weñޙll assist you throughout your degree to ensure that by the time you graduate youñޙll 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
- 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.
Why you should do a placement
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...?
I think that the human aspect of a placement year, which allows you to grow and mature, is just as important as the professional skills you acquire. Get out there, learn about marine biology topics, learn about yourself, and come back to uni with a better idea of who you are and where you are heading!
Louise spent three months in South Africa in a marine conservation genetics laboratory and four months in Chile in a subtidal ecology laboratory.
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 studentñޙs 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 Governmentñޙs 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 ñ, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
TOTUS student scholarship
With thanks to TOTUS Engineering, we are able to provide one scholarship a year to a student who is intending to study one of our undergraduate Biological Science, Marine Biology or Ocean Science degrees and fulfils at least one of the required criteria.
The recipient will receive £500 per year for the three years of their undergraduate course (excluding placement year) to help with their studies.
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
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
120 UCAS points
120 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
120 points from a minimum of 3 A levels, to include Grade B in A level Biology.
BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/ QCF Extended Diploma
A typical offer would be DDM, 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, plus 15 credits at maths, physics, chemistry, environmental science/studies, applied science, geography, geology, technology or psychology. Typically, we would require 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction and 15 Level 3 credits at Merit.
T level
Enquire within with modules.
International Baccalaureate
30 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.
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
C160
C160
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
ñ
ñ
Other routes into this course
The following courses are available as routes into this programme.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology with Foundation Year
Interested in marine biology but lack the usual qualifications? This four-year degree includes a foundation year to build your study skills and scientific knowledge, helping you confidently progress into the full honours course
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
120 UCAS points
120 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
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
C160
C160
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
ñ
ñ
Other routes to this course
The offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to ñ degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk
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 ñ.
.jpg)
*These are the latest results from the National Student Survey. Please note that the data published on is updated annually in September.