Marine Biology, BSc (Hons), with industry placement

Marine biology offers an engaging exploration of oceanic life through diverse modules such as marine plankton, oceanography, ecosystems, and ecology. This four-year BSc programme includes a dedicated year of industrial placement to apply skills and boost employability. Located on the coast, students access varied habitats like rocky shores and estuaries, utilising a state-of-the-art 18m survey vessel, alongside facilities including a sustainable aquatic research centre and advanced laboratories. The course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology and covers topics like animal welfare, conservation, and climate impacts, with options for a year abroad.In Year 1, students study animal diversity, cellular biology, and core skills. Year 2 focuses on marine ecosystems and field courses, while Year 4 explores advanced topics like fisheries, polar biology, and conservation. Assessment combines lectures, seminars, practicals, exams, coursework, and a research project, enhancing confidence and career prospects. All courses offer placement opportunities to develop communication and professional skills.

Year 1: Areas studied typically include: animal diversity, form and function; cellular and microbial biology; marine and terrestrial ecology and animal behaviour; molecular and evolutionary biology; plants and algae – diversity, form and function; and core skills for Bioscientists. Year 2: Areas studied typically include: marine ecosystems; ichthyology; marine biology field course (Pembrokeshire); marine invertebrates; marine plankton and oceanography; marine techniques. You will spend Year 3 on an industrial placement, putting your skills into practice and greatly enhancing your employability. Year 4: Areas studied typically include: diseases of aquatic animals; ecology of marine animals; fisheries and aquaculture; oceans and climate; polar biology; tropical marine biology field course (Puerto Rico); tropical marine biology and conservation; field and laboratory professional skills.