BIOL131
Cells: The Building Blocks of Life
20 credits
Explore the molecular and genetic features that allow cells to function. You’ll investigate cell biology in the context of plant and animal development and learn how cells process complex information to give biological outcomes which have implications at the cellular, tissue and whole organism levels. This module provides a vital grounding in cell biology and development.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO123
Marine Biology Field Course
20 credits
Immerse yourself in marine biology and learn to think and work like a scientist. Through hands-on taxonomy practicals, statistics workshops and career sessions, you’ll build skills in data analysis, communication and marine diversity. The highlight is a non-residential field course in Devon and Cornwall where in small groups you design a study, collect and analyse data, and present findings in one intensive week!
75% Coursework
25% Tests
MBIO161
Evolution and Behaviour
20 credits
Explore the evolutionary principles that shape species and their behaviour. You’ll examine genetic inheritance, population genetics, adaptation, fitness, speciation, and the fossil record using key examples and practical classes to deepen understanding. Historical developments in evolutionary thought provide context for modern interpretations, helping you approach biology through the lens of evolutionary adaptation.
50% Examinations
50% Tests
MBIO162
Biodiversity
20 credits
Investigate what biodiversity is, where it occurs and why it matters. You’ll study global patterns of diversity, the biology of key taxa and the threats facing ecosystems today. Through this module, you’ll develop a strong understanding of how biodiversity is valued, assessed and conserved, while exploring the ecological principles that underpin these efforts.
50% Practicals
50% Examinations
BMSMB01
Marine Biology Student Support Stage 1
Receive structured support in developing foundational skills essential for marine biology. This module complements your Level 4 studies by tracking your progress in laboratory techniques, fieldwork, data handling and transferable skills, ensuring you establish a strong base for future marine science learning.
OS110
Oceanography
This module introduces the science that shapes our oceans, exploring the physical and chemical processes that drive ocean circulation and mixing, and influence the character of marine environments worldwide. Key scientific principles are introduced along the way, helping students build a strong foundation for further study in ocean and marine sciences.
MBIO163
Introduction to Marine Biology
This module introduces students to the dynamic world of marine biology, exploring marine ecosystems, marine organisms and key research areas. Through hands on fieldwork and laboratory sessions, students build practical research skills while developing confidence in effective scientific writing and communication.
MBIO217
Ecology of Shallow Water Marine Habitats
20 credits
Study the ecology of shallow water environments, some of the most diverse and productive habitats on Earth. You’ll explore the organisms living within them, the environmental factors shaping these systems and the methods used to analyse ecological data. This module strengthens your ability to evaluate and communicate ecological findings in marine science.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO222
Ecophysiology of Marine Animals
20 credits
Explore how marine animals function within ecological and evolutionary contexts. You’ll study physiological processes, environmental responses and the adaptations that allow species to thrive in diverse marine environments. This module blends conceptual understanding with applied examples to strengthen your grasp of how physiology shapes ecological interactions.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO226
Experimental Marine Biology Field Course
20 credits
Gain hands-on experience conducting scientific research during a residential overseas field course. You’ll learn to describe organisms and habitats accurately, design experiments, collect and analyse data, and present scientific results. This intensive module builds confidence in field and laboratory techniques essential for advanced marine biological research.
70% Coursework
30% Tests
MBIO228
Biology of Marine Organisms
20 credits
Explore the fundamental biology of marine organisms, focusing on diversity of form and function in key groups. Develop an understanding of the evolution and anatomy of organisms across the marine tree of life including marine vertebrates, invertebrates and algae. Build an understanding of marine biodiversity and how morphological and physiological traits allow organisms to inhabit a range of marine environments.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO229
Methods in Marine Biology, Coastal Ecology and Oceanography
20 credits
Develop core practical skills needed for field studies in marine biology, coastal ecology and oceanography. You’ll learn data-collection techniques, experimental design principles, and methods for analysing and communicating scientific information. Through hands-on practice, this module prepares you for more advanced fieldwork and research across marine and coastal systems.
100% Coursework
BMSMB02
Marine Biology Student Support Stage 2
Enhance your competence in field, lab and analytical skills across your Level 5 studies. This module ensures continued skill development through timetabled activities and structured tracking, helping you prepare confidently for advanced marine biology modules and independent research at higher levels.
BIOL214
Ecology
20 credits
Build a strong understanding of ecological principles at the levels of individuals, populations and communities. You’ll explore how ecological processes operate and species interact in both aquatic and terrestrial systems, and examine how scientists search for general theories in ecology. This module provides a solid conceptual framework for advanced ecological analysis and problem-solving.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO221
Marine Molecular Biology
20 credits
Discover how molecular techniques revolutionise our understanding of marine organisms and ecosystems. You’ll build foundational knowledge of molecular concepts and methods, learning how researchers study genetic, physiological and ecological processes in the marine environment. This module provides essential preparation for advanced work in marine molecular science.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
OS207
Scientific Diving
20 credits
Enhance your research capabilities through professional level scientific diving. Suitable for students with the HSE SCUBA qualification, this module trains you in underwater photography, surveying and sampling techniques. You’ll plan and execute multidisciplinary dive projects, developing skills used in research, industry and environmental monitoring.
100% Coursework
BPIE336
Marine Biology related Placement
0 credits
Spend up to 48 weeks gaining real-world experience in a professional marine biology setting. This extended placement allows you to apply knowledge gained in your first two years, build workplace skills and prepare for your final stage of study. It provides valuable insight into career pathways and industry expectations in marine biology.
MBIO329
Marine Biology: An Evolutionary Approach
20 credits
Explore current advances in marine biology through an explicitly evolutionary lens. You’ll critically evaluate primary literature while exploring how evolutionary processes shape marine organisms, communities and ecosystems. This module deepens your ability to interpret scientific research and appreciate the evolutionary and indeed societal context driving modern marine biology.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
PROJ302
SoBMS Project
40 credits
Undertake an independent research project from concept to completion. You’ll develop a research question, design and execute your study, analyse results and communicate your findings. This module strengthens your ability to work independently, solve problems and reflect on your academic and professional development.
75% Coursework
25% Practicals
BMSMB04
Marine Biology Student Support Stage 4
Consolidate and refine your advanced marine biology skills as you complete your degree. This module supports your progression through Level 6, helping you strengthen professional, analytical and research competencies and ensuring you graduate with a strong, workplace-ready skillset.
BIOL311
Ecotoxicology
20 credits
Examine how pollutants affect aquatic organisms and ecosystems. You’ll study key concepts, analytical techniques and evaluation methods used to assess contaminant impacts. Through applied examples, you’ll learn how ecotoxicology supports environmental protection and informs policies aimed at safeguarding water quality and ecosystem health in a changing world.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BIOL322
Aquatic Microbial Ecology
20 credits
Explore the rich microbial diversity of aquatic ecosystems. You’ll study microbial roles in freshwater, marine and hypersaline environments and examine the methods used to investigate them. By connecting current research with hands-on understanding, this module prepares you to analyse microbial communities and their ecological significance.
50% Practicals
50% Examinations
MBIO317
Behavioural Ecology
20 credits
Explore the theories behind key models in behavioural ecology, including optimal foraging, game theory and habitat selection. Using empirical studies, you’ll evaluate how animals make decisions and how behaviour evolves. This module provides a deeper understanding of how behaviour shapes ecological outcomes.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO324
Speciation and Diversity
20 credits
Examine how species form, diversify and evolve. You’ll investigate species concepts, mechanisms of speciation and the evolutionary processes driving biological diversity. The module also explores how diversity has changed through evolutionary time, giving you a comprehensive foundation in evolutionary biology and biodiversity science.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO339
Ecology and Conservation of Marine Vertebrates
20 credits
Investigate the ecology of large marine vertebrates and the pressures they face from a range of key threats including fisheries bycatch, whaling, and anthropogenic noise. You’ll study methods for surveying and monitoring populations and analyse real case studies that highlight current research. This module equips you to understand and address conservation challenges affecting large marine vertebrates.
60% Coursework
40% Examinations
MBIO363
Fish and Fisheries
20 credits
Explore the biology of fishes and how it informs sustainable fisheries management. Drawing on key research on behaviour and physiology to population dynamics and community processes, you’ll evaluate implications for aquaculture and wild capture fisheries. Through discussions, workshops and seminars with industry professionals, you’ll develop evidence based skills to support the sustainable management of fish populations.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO364
Conservation Physiology
20 credits
Explore how physiological approaches help solve real conservation problems in marine systems. You’ll examine how marine organisms respond to natural and human-driven stressors, and evaluate how fundamental physiology principles can inform their conservation. Through discussion based learning, this module strengthens your ability to apply a physiological approach to conserve species and ecosystems in a changing world.
60% Examinations
40% Coursework
MBIO365
Tropical Marine Ecology
20 credits
Dive into the ecology of tropical marine ecosystems and explore the patterns, processes and interactions that shape them. You’ll study how species and communities respond to environmental change, investigate ecosystem functioning and develop key research skills. This module provides a rich foundation for understanding tropical biodiversity and its global significance.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
My favourite memory of Plymouth is probably the field trip to Portugal...the group research projects were great and it’s amazing how much you can learn in a week.
“The main reason I chose this uni is because they have a massive emphasis on fieldwork and getting your hands dirty – the most fun part of it.”
One of the main reasons I came to study at Plymouth was the facilities and the fact that I could use them and that they weren’t reserved for research and external bookings. It was great being able to use equipment that I would be using out in the field – it really helped me to develop a deeper understanding of the field.
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.

The good thing about the University’s location is that Plymouth is home to a number of marine organisations (the Marine Biological Association, Plymouth 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.
Dr Benjamin Ciotti
Associate Professor of Marine Biology
Dr Manuela Truebano
Associate Professor in Marine Ecophysiology
Dr Miriam Reverter
Lecturer in Marine Biology
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.
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
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
Plymouth 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. Plymouth was fantastic for me and I will always love it.
My placement experience has played a big part in how I envisage my future career. It has given me a point of reference that I can use to gain perspective every time I feel overwhelmed by stressful situations – a final goal that can drive my life. Without this placement opportunity, I don't think I would be as motivated as I am to pursue a career in marine research.
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Full-time
The following courses are available as routes into this programme.
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
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Full-time