Undergraduate course
Planned new course
MSci (Hons)
Marine Biology
Join a renowned marine biology degree and advance your research skills with access to some of Europe’s best marine facilities and a stunning coastline. Experience hands-on marine biology at its best, both in cutting-edge labs and out in the field.
Our typical offer
128 UCAS points
Learn from the best
We're at the forefront of knowledge in how marine ecosystems work, how organisms function, evolve, behave and interact. This fundamental knowledge also translates into management and conservation.
From the laboratory to field
Developing rigorous scientists through practical experience in core research skills and cutting-edge techniques and analyses.
Facing global challenges
We'll prepare you to find the answers to fundamental questions and solutions for the challenges associated with climate change, habitat loss, pollution and sustainable food production.
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.
What is an integrated masters programme?
Our integrated masters programmes are undergraduate programmes that contain an extra year of study at postgraduate level. Combining undergraduate and postgraduate study into a single continuous programme.
An integrated masters degree allows you to gain a broad knowledge base from your undergraduate studies and then progress to more advanced or specialised work at postgraduate level.
- To stand out from the crowd.
- You're interested in enhancing your research journey.
- To improve your future career direction.
- To fast track your career.
- To advance your subject or clinical knowledge.
- You're interested in developing leadership, managerial and research skills.
This course is for you if...
you're passionate about exploring marine life, from coastal margins to the deep sea
you seek hands-on experience in both laboratory and field settings
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 practising research marine biologist
Details
Years 1-3 (plus an optional placement year)
You will follow one of our three Marine Biology BSc programmes, choosing relevant optional modules and conducting a research project. On the MSci, this will typically be on the same topic as your project in your masters year, allowing you to really explore something in depth.
Core modules
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
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.
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
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.
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.
Optional placement year
Between your second and third year, you’ll have the opportunity to do a work placement, for a six or 12-month period.
As well as providing valuable hands-on experience outside of the classroom, a placement can prove to be a great networking opportunity and provide a deeper, working level understanding of the career paths that are available following your degree.
Final year
The final year is research-intensive and includes four specialist modules: a year-long 60-credit research project, a 20-credit research skills module and two bespoke 20-credit modules exploring contemporary issues in both pure and applied marine biology research. These modules are designed to enhance research competence and provide you with cutting-edge knowledge and transferable skills relevant to research careers and other high-level graduate employment options. You will be fully integrated into research groups within the School of Biological and Marine Sciences, allowing you to be part of our dynamic research culture, and receive close academic supervision throughout.
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.
Includes marine biology, ecotoxicology and conservation physiology modules. Fieldtrips have included the UK and Portugal.
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.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography
Includes specialist ocean processes, and waves tides and coastal dynamics modules. Fieldtrips have included the UK and Sweden.
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 University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
Benefit from fieldwork, near and far
At Plymouth, you’ll 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.
Previous students have studied rocky shores, seagrass meadows, and estuaries along the UK’s coast, as well as tropical and temperate marine environments further afield.
Fieldwork gives you an end-to-end experience of conducting a scientific study from developing hypotheses, designing experiments, collecting data, analysing results and communicating findings through to scientific reports. 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, from sonar mapping to ROVs
- 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
- communicating project work and ideas through oral presentations.
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.
Tom, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology 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.
“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.”
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 Plymouth 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.
Practical sessions, individual project work and research all benefit from our fleet of research vessels.
Specialist labs
Wet laboratory for sample examination and analysis.
A cutting-edge research hub driving innovation in marine, environmental, and biomedical sciences.
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.
Luke, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology 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 Plymouth 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.
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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 Plymouth.
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 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.
Grace, recent graduate.
Dr Benjamin Ciotti
Associate Professor of Marine Biology
Dr Manuela Truebano
Associate Professor in Marine Ecophysiology
Dr Miriam Reverter
Lecturer in Marine Biology
Enrich your studies – join the Marine Biology Society (MBS)
The University of Plymouth 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 Plymouth
Plymouth'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 don’t 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
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
Careers
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.
Rory Moore, Head of Conservation at the Blue Marine Foundation
As a marine biology graduate 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, we’ll assist you throughout your degree to ensure that by the time you graduate you’ll 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
- Working on the filming and / or production of nature documentaries
- 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.
The benefits of completing a placement
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.
Francisco worked as a Research Intern at the Instituto de Investigacións Mariñas, Spain.
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...?
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 student’s 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 Government’s 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 Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
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
128 UCAS points
128 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
128 points, including a minimum of 3 A levels - including a grade B or above in Biology.
BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/ QCF Extended Diploma
A typical offer would be DDD, 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, Typically, we would require 36 Level 3 credits at Distinction and 9 Level 3 credits at Merit.
T level
Enquire within with modules.
International Baccalaureate
33 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.
Other qualifications
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
C162
C162
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
128 UCAS points
128 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
C162
C162
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
4 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
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 University of Plymouth.
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