TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Marine Biology and Oceanography

Explore ocean and deep-sea marine life alongside the physical and chemical processes that shape marine ecosystems. With direct access to the biodiverse South Devon coast, this course provides hands-on experience through practical field and lab work.

Our typical offer

120 UCAS points

Learn from the best

We're at the forefront of knowledge on how marine organisms are composed, function, evolve, and interact with the physical and chemical processes that shape the ocean.

Hands-on experience

Deepen your experience with hands-on training using state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge techniques in the laboratories and onboard the University’s research vessels within Â鶹´«Ã½ Sound, a Special Area for Conservation.

Facing global challenges 

At the crossroads of marine biology and oceanography, our graduates emerge ready to address global challenges—from climate change to biodiversity loss—with the insight and innovation the ocean demands.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography

100 future students discovered this course in the last week

About Details Experience Careers Fees and funding Apply Register for open day

About

Marine Biology students working on a boat on a fieldtrip to Sweden

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
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.

This course is for you if...

you're passionate about uncovering how life in the sea responds to a dynamic and changing ocean
Planet earth with arrows around
you seek hands-in experience in using state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge techniques
Hand holding molecular structure
you are passionate about understanding marine life and ocean processes—and finding solutions to the challenges facing our oceans
Ocean pollution - bottle and dead fish in sea
you want to develop the practical, intellectual, and scientific skills to become a practising marine biologist
Ticklist depicting goal setting for graduates

Details

Year 1

In your first year, you’ll get to grips with key biological and oceanographic themes, with topics ranging from biodiversity and ecosystems to evolution and microbiology. Through a mixture of lectures, small group tutorials, laboratory and fieldwork, you’ll begin to acquire skills that will boost your employability and help your career development. You’ll also benefit from intensive field courses, introducing you to the processes of scientific investigation, data collection and analysis.
Marine Biology and Oceanography students take part in fieldwork along the South Devon coastline.

Core modules

BIOL131
Cells: The Building Blocks of Life 20 credits

The cell is the basic building block of life. This module introduces you to the structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and the cell biology that allow different cells to do different things including some highly specialised cells of multicellular organisms. The module will then focus on the molecular basis that underlies cell function introducing you to the metabolic pathways and molecules that allow cells to work.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MBIO120
Introduction to Marine Biology 20 credits

This module will introduce students to marine biology covering aspects such as marine ecosystems, organisms and oceanography. This will also start to develop a range of core skills and confidence in effective written communication, information technology (including use of peer-reviewed literature), and data handling skills. It will also start to develop field and id skills and taxonomy skills and safe fieldwork practices.

100% Coursework

MBIO123
Marine Biology Field Course 20 credits

This module develops core skills in effective oral and written communication and provides a toolbox of essential material on numeracy and statistics to address quantitative questions in Marine Biology. During an intensive field course, you will immerse yourself in practical aspects of marine biology, asking questions based on observations and then formulating appropriate hypotheses that can then be tested.

75% Coursework

25% Tests

MBIO161
Evolution and Behaviour 20 credits

Covers the principles underpinning evolution with a special focus on animal behaviour as adaptive traits. Module covers concepts of the genetic basis of inheritance, population genetics, selection, adaptation, function, fitness and speciation. We will use key examples and practical classes to illustrate key ideas and consider the development of some of the ideas in a historical context.

50% Examinations

50% Tests

MBIO162
Biodiversity 20 credits

This module introduces the scientific study of biodiversity. Starting with the question what is biodiversity? students go on to explore where it is, how it is distributed across the Earth, and how we value it. This leads to a discussion of how biodiversity is threatened and how we conserve it. Embedded in this big picture is an introduction to the biology of some key taxa that characterise biodiversity.

50% Practicals

50% Examinations

OS102
Physical and Chemical Processes of the Ocean 20 credits

This module provides an introduction to the main physical and chemical processes occurring in the worlds oceans and a foundation in key aspects of underpinning science and mathematics.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

Year 2

In your second year, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of the biology and ecology of marine organisms and chemical and biological oceanography. You will receive hands-on, practical training in marine survey, underwater sampling, and species identification, skills that will be honed during the field course, currently in Sweden, where you will undertake field research in deep water from an ocean-going research vessel.
Marine Biology and Oceanography students taking part in a fieldtrip to Sweden.

Core modules

MBIO227
Biological Oceanography Field Course 20 credits

A residential field course providing knowledge of sampling offshore marine systems from research vessels. A range of ecosystems will be investigated primarily with respect to their biological component but emphasis will also be placed upon understanding the biological significance of major physico-chemical parameters in the study area.

60% Coursework

40% Tests

MBIO228
Biology of Marine Organisms 20 credits

This module will provide an introduction to fundamental aspects of the biology of marine organisms. Particular attention is paid to the diversity of form and function within key groups of marine chloroxygenic organisms and animals and how this allows them to inhabit different marine environments.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

OS201
Global Ocean Processes 20 credits

This module explores the large-scale distribution and characteristics of water masses and biogeochemical properties in the oceans. Mechanisms that drive the global circulation in a changing climate are investigated alongside their role in the transport of chemical constituents through the open oceans and shelf seas. The life cycles and distribution of marine organisms and the structuring of marine foodwebs are explored.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MBIO229
Methods in Marine Biology, Coastal Ecology and Oceanography 20 credits

Provides the core skills and techniques to equip students to perform field studies in Marine Biology, Coastal Ecology and Oceanography. Introduces appropriate methodologies for the collection, handling and analysis of data; the scientific principles underlying experimental design and the effective communication of scientific information.

100% Coursework

Optional modules

MBIO217
Ecology of Shallow Water Marine Habitats 20 credits

Shallow water marine habitats represent some of the most diverse and productive habitats on earth. This module provides an overview of the key factors influencing their ecology and will also consider the biology of the organisms therein, the scientific study of shallow water habitats and the analysis, evaluation and communication of marine ecological data.

60% Examinations

40% Coursework

MBIO221
Marine Molecular Biology 20 credits

The application of molecular techniques in marine biology has revolutionised our understanding of marine life, from individuals to ecosystems. This module provides a foundation in the concepts and techniques underlying these developments.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

OS204
Waves, Tides and Coastal Dynamics 20 credits

This module provides an introduction to the characteristics of ocean waves and focusses on how waves and tides interact with the coast and drive the coastal processes that result in shoreline erosion and accretion.

50% Coursework

50% Tests

OS207
Scientific Diving 20 credits

This module allows suitably qualified students (HSE SCUBA or equivalent) to develop industry and research-relevant skills in measurement and monitoring in the underwater environment using professional SCUBA and related techniques. These will then be applied in a multi-disciplinary context to the planning, execution, analysis and reporting of a field-based sampling activity.

100% Coursework

BIOL214
Ecology 20 credits

An understanding of basic concepts is needed to solve ecological problems. This module explores key concepts in ecology at the levels of individuals, populations and communities. The concepts are supported with examples taken from terrestrial and aquatic systems, and provide a useful insight into the search for general theories in ecology.

50% Examinations

30% Coursework

20% Tests

OS208
Meteorology 20 credits

This module provides an introduction to the main physical processes occurring in the atmosphere on a range of spatial and temporal scales, with particular emphasis on meteorology relevant to the UK. Meteorological observations and/or measurements will be used to explore the occurrence of a specific meteorological phenomenon (eg, frontal weather, cloud development, atmospheric flow, extra-tropical cyclone).

100% Coursework

Optional placement year

During your optional 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. 
Elyssa Quinton, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology student, wants to save the planet by helping to conserve the oceans and educate others.

Core modules

BPIE336
Marine Biology related Placement 0 credits

A 48-week period of professional training spent as the third year of a sandwich programme undertaking an approved placement with a suitable company. This provides an opportunity for the student to gain relevant industrial experience to consolidate the first two stages of study and to prepare for the final stage and employment after graduation.

Final year

Your final year of study provides the opportunity for you to focus on your chosen areas of interest. You’ll conduct an extensive personal research project, applying the skills and methods you've learnt. You’ll also choose from a range of modules driven by the research interests of our staff, again giving you the opportunity to specialise and tailor your work towards your career goals, while studying at the cutting edge of marine biology and oceanography.
Monitoring fish habitats around Â鶹´«Ã½ Sound as part of the FinVision project.

Core modules

MBIO341
Biological Oceanography 20 credits

This module provides a study of the key physical, ecological and organismal processes in the marine environment and introduces a range of biological studies in applied marine science.

60% Examinations

40% Practicals

PROJ302
SoBMS Project 40 credits

This module provides an opportunity to undertake a research project on an individually developed topic and experience the entire process of scholarly research: from problem formulation, through the design and execution of an investigation, analysis of results and presentation of outcomes. It will develop skills in independent working and self-awareness in relation to personal, professional and academic development.

75% Coursework

25% Practicals

Optional modules

BIOL311
Ecotoxicology 20 credits

This module provides a detailed analysis of the concepts and principles of ecotoxicology, with an emphasis on evaluation of ecotoxicological techniques and methods for assessment of impacts of pollutants on the aquatic environment.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MBIO327
Marine Ecology 20 credits

This module considers the processes and mechanisms that affect the development and structure of marine communities through a discussion of the current evidence base, recent concepts and theories relating to multiple life histories stages of marine species from around the globe and experimental testing of behavioural processes. This will be followed by an investigation of the nature and significance of key processes in structuring marine communities.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MBIO339
Ecology and Conservation of Marine Vertebrates 20 credits

Marine vertebrates are vulnerable to depletion through over fishing, industrial development, pollution and habitat degradation. This module will examine the ecology of these animals in their natural environments and explore methods for surveying, monitoring and managing populations and species. There is a strong emphasis on current research and hot topics with numerous case studies used throughout the module.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

MBIO363
Fish and Fisheries 20 credits

This module explores the biology of fishes and its application to the science of fisheries management. There is a focus on seminal works and recent advances in the primary literature.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

OS303
Ocean Dynamics 20 credits

The module provides an introduction to dynamical oceanography with emphasis on the large- and meso-scale circulation in the world ocean and shelf seas. Topics include geostrophic and wind driven currents, eddies, formation of fronts, upwelling, interactions between water masses, exchanges between shelf and deep seas. Emphasis is placed on quantitative understanding of physical processes and the analysis of field data.

100% Coursework

OS304
Marine Ecosystem Conservation 20 credits

From tropical mangroves to temperate pelagic waters, marine ecosystems around the world face a variety of threats due to human activities and resource pressure. This module will examine threats to a range of marine and coastal ecosystems and explore methods for management and conservation. We will explore methods for surveying and monitoring marine ecosystems and learn about the ecological consequences of human impacts.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

OS309
Marine Pollution and Environmental Change 20 credits

This module will consider the sources, transport, sinks and impacts of a wide range of pollutant types (including nutrients, trace elements, sediments, anthropogenic pollutants and carbon dioxide). Practical field techniques will be introduced and used to assess the environmental condition of estuarine waters. Emphasis will be placed on critical evaluating the links between human activities and marine water quality.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

 
 
 
 
 
 

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.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology
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.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography
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

Marine Biology and Oceanography students on a fieldtrip to Costa Rica
Students on a fieldtrip to Kingsand in Cornwall
Marine biology and oceanography students on board a boat

Benefit from fieldwork, near and far

At Â鶹´«Ã½, 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.
 
 
Marine Biology students looking at a range of different intertidal habitats scattered around the shore at Bigbury.

My first year had an introductory rock pooling session at Mount Edgcumbe and a field week based on sampling done at Devil's Point. Each of them was brilliant and built on lectures and techniques taught. I am very excited about the upcoming field trip to Sweden, where we can sample some deep sea organisms from a Fjord.

Antony, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography

 
 
 

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 Â鶹´«Ã½ 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.
Marine Station

Marine Station
Marine Station
Waterfront labs and classrooms at the Marine Station
Falcon Spirit
Our fleet of boats
Practical sessions, individual project work and research all benefit from our fleet of research vessels .
Marine Station wet lab
Specilist labs
Wet laboratory for sample examination and analysis.
5G interactive microscope laboratory
5G interactive microscope laboratory
LABplus facility 
LABplus
Study, practical work and lab skills support at LABplus.
Brixham Laboratory
Brixham Laboratory
A cutting-edge research hub driving innovation in marine, environmental, and biomedical sciences.
 
 

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 Â鶹´«Ã½ 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, colecting 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.

Marine science students on a research expedition netting fish.
Fish netting in the UK.
Marine biology students snorkelling in indonesia.
Diving in Indonesia.
Marine science students on a research expedition to teh Azores
Research expedition to the Azores.
 

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.
HSE SCUBA Diving Course
a
 

The Ocean Giants Programme

Preparing the next generation of marine researchers and ocean guardians for the challenges ahead, whilst supporting NGOs working to protect threatened marine megafauna.
The Â鶹´«Ã½ has joined forces with the Ocean Giants Trust to create a series of exciting new opportunities for its student participants.
Students will be able to complement their studies with work for charities in locations such as Mexico, Mozambique, the Philippines and Tanzania.
Pilot whale pod - image courtesy of Getty Images
 

Keep up to date 

Follow us to get a greater insight into what you might experience on a marine biology degree at Â鶹´«Ã½.
i  
f  
Marine Biology students in the Davy Labs
 
 
 

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 Â鶹´«Ã½ is home to a number of marine organisations (the Marine Biological Association, Â鶹´«Ã½ 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.

Graduate, Grace.
Dr Nicola Foster Lecturer in Marine Biology


Lecturer in Marine Biology

Dr Clare Embling Associate Head of School for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion


Associate Head of School for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Dr Joan Alfaro Lecturer in Marine Biology


Lecturer in Marine Biology

Show all
 
 
 

Enrich your studies – join the Marine Biology Society (MBS)

The Â鶹´«Ã½ 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.
Marine Biology Society logo
 
 
 

Life in Â鶹´«Ã½

Â鶹´«Ã½'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

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city

Discover what Â鶹´«Ã½ and its unique geographical location have to offer
Accommodation halls internal
Explore your accommodation options

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

Rory Moore - Hero

Â鶹´«Ã½ 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. Â鶹´«Ã½ was fantastic for me and I will always love it.

Rory Moore, Head of Conservation at the

 
 
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
  • H

    94% of graduates in work or further study

  • ?

    84% said their degree was a formal requirement for their job or gave them an advantage

*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. 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.
 

Why you should do a placement

I have gained invaluable knowledge and experience from maximising my opportunities which I hope will make me more employable after graduating. It would help if you considered planning your placement early to be better prepared. You will be amazed at the opportunities presented to you.

Matt was selected to take part in an arctic expedition as part of eth Ice Warrior project. He was also a diving intern at the University's Marine Station.
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...?
Ana water sampling in Moorea

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
 2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
On Monday 20 October 2025, the UK Government announced its intention to increase tuition fees for home undergraduate students in line with inflation from 2026 onwards.
Along with other universities in the UK, the Â鶹´«Ã½ intends to apply this new fee. Whilst the exact details have not currently been announced, it is expected that the increase will be in the region of £400, increasing the annual tuition fee to £9,935 for 2026, which will then be subject to automatic inflationary increases thereafter. However, implementation of this increase will be subject to further Government guidance and legislation. 
The University will give further details to both prospective and current students as soon as the Government has issued further information. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
To be confirmed
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
To be confirmed
 

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 .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Â鶹´«Ã½, 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.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
120 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE
All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) English and Mathematics at grade C / 4 or above.

A levels
120 points from a minimum of 3 A levels, including Biology and preferably further relevant Science subjects. Qualifying relevant science subjects are: Applied Science, Applied Marine Science, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. General Studies is excluded. Points can include a relevant Extended Project (EPQ) but must include 3 A levels.

BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/ QCF Extended Diploma
A typical offer would be DDM, 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, plus 15 credits at maths, physics, chemistry, environmental science/studies, applied science, geography, geology or technology or psychology. Typically, we would require 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction and 15 Level 3 credits at Merit.

T level
Merit in any subject.

International Baccalaureate
30-36 overall, to include Higher Level Biology and preferably further relevant Science subjects. Qualifying relevant Science subjects are: Chemistry, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics and Psychology. English and Maths are accepted within as GCSE equivalent at Higher Level Grade 4 or Standard Level Grade 5.

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
CF17
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Â鶹´«Ã½

    • Other routes into this course

    The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

    BSc (Hons) Marine Biology with Foundation Year

    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

     

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
     
    Our typical offer
    120 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.
     
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    CF17
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    3 years
    (+ optional placement)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Â鶹´«Ã½

    Other routes to this course

    The offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to Â鶹´«Ã½ degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
    Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk
     
     
     

    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 Â鶹´«Ã½.
     
    Book your place
    Man sitting outside with surrounded by friends
     
     
     
    The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.