The foundation year is intended for higher level motivated students who wish to study marine biology, who have already achieved Level 3 qualifications but do not meet the usual entry criteria for entry to the first year of our honours degree courses in marine biology, marine biology and oceanography or marine biology and coastal ecology.

A limited number of places are available and applicants will only be considered if they can provide suitable evidence of qualifications already achieved, together with strong relevant interests or experience appropriate to marine biology.’ Applications from mature students are especially welcomed; other qualifications and professional experience will be considered. An interview is normally required. 

• For applicants with A levels at least 96 points from a minimum of two A levels including biology and a second science is normally required. BTEC Diploma (112 points) and comparable international qualifications at an appropriate level and with relevant subjects will also be considered.
• GCSE mathematics and English language at grade C or above is normally required. 
• All applicants are normally interviewed prior to a formal offer being made. 
• Applications from mature students are especially welcomed; other qualifications and professional experience will be considered. Please contact us to discuss your options.

BTEC National Diploma modules
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.

Please contact us to enquire about your suitability for admission. 

English language requirements.

We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.