BSc (Hons) Marine Biology in Plymouth United Kingdom | University of Plymouth

This practical degree program, recognized among the UK's finest with global acclaim, lets you investigate marine life across diverse ecosystems from shorelines to ocean depths while developing comprehensive knowledge of marine organisms' biology. Our teaching utilizes both the South Devon coastline and Europe's premier marine facilities, enabling you to not just study but actively engage with marine biology at an advanced level through lab work and fieldwork.
Recognized among the UK's top 15 and global top 100 for Earth and Marine Sciences in the 2023 QS World University Rankings.
Examine marine biodiversity in its entirety, from microscopic plankton to majestic marine mammals. Investigate marine species from multiple perspectives including physiology, development, behavior, distribution, evolutionary history, and future prospects.
Conduct field studies along Devon and Cornwall's stunning coastline. A recent WWF report identified the South Devon coast - accessible directly from campus - as the UK's most biodiverse marine area.
Focus on marine organism biology while developing strong experimental, practical, and fieldwork competencies in both laboratory and open water settings.
Select specialized modules like Scientific Diving, where qualified students (HSE SCUBA certified or equivalent) can acquire professional underwater research and monitoring skills using commercial diving techniques.
Utilize our research vessels operating in Plymouth Sound's protected marine area and our dedicated Marine Station.
LABplus offers exclusive open-access science and engineering facilities featuring flexible workspaces, computing resources, specialized software, microscopy equipment, and custom learning materials.
Learn from internationally recognized marine researchers. Our faculty's extensive research collaborations contribute to our outstanding teaching reputation, reflected in 100% student satisfaction with staff engagement (UNISTATS).
Enhance your studies through potential placements with Plymouth's world-class marine research institutions, including the Diving Diseases Research Centre, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Marine Biological Association, and Sir Alister Hardy Foundation.
Expand your expertise through international field courses in France and Portugal, studying marine species absent from UK waters.
Opt for a third-year professional placement to gain valuable work experience.
Undertake an in-depth final-year research project in your chosen specialization.
Acquire career-ready skills including research methodology, funding acquisition strategies, and professional qualifications like HSE Professional SCUBA certification for eligible candidates.

3-year full-time program (with optional placement year).