TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Ocean Exploration and Surveying

Launch your global career exploring and surveying the world’s oceans. Using industry-standard equipment and software aboard our fleet of survey vessels, you'll build the hands-on expertise and advanced skills demanded by industry.

Our typical offer

112 UCAS points

Career ready skills

Use our advanced industry-standard survey equipment, research vessels and uncrewed surface vehicles for practical data collection, gaining sought-after experience and in-demand skills in Â鶹´«Ã½'s coastal environment.

Fieldwork from week one

Participate in boatwork throughout your degree, immerse yourself in our optional international fieldtrip, gain hands-on experience in real-world environments and apply your skills to the hydrographic sector.

Professional diving and global fieldwork opportunities 

Boost your credentials with the HSE Professional SCUBA qualification and a dedicated scientific diving module (optional), alongside opportunities for overseas field courses and industry-based experiences.
BSc (Hons) Ocean Exploration and Surveying

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About

Embark on a dynamic and highly career-focused journey into ocean exploration and hydrographic surveying with our * degree.
With a unique combination of hands-on skills and expert knowledge you'll be equipped for an exciting and varied global career in hydrographic surveying, marine resource assessment, renewable energy, environmental management, offshore construction and more. 
*Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors.
Falcon spirit at sunset.

This course is for you if...

you're eager to develop skills in hydrographic surveying, using advanced, industry-standard equipment
Surveying equipment
you’re passionate about understanding the ocean and seafloor, and the processes that shape them
Earth with arrows inside, depicting geology
you enjoy hands-on learning through boatwork, fieldwork and labwork
Ship
you aspire for a career that combines science, adventure and real-world impact
Magnifying glass looking at earth

Details

Year 1

From week one, you will build practical skills and enhance your ability to analyse, present and interpret scientific data through boat and field-based activities. 
Your first year, shared across the Marine Science undergraduate scheme, introduces the full range of topics within the degree and develops your underpinning scientific knowledge and practical skills. You’ll develop your understanding of the Earth’s oceans and the key physical, chemical, and biological processes that occur in these systems. 
Sulmara Subsea showcasing their methodologies and technology platform to students on the BSc Ocean Exploration and MSc Hydrography courses. Students standing on a dock looking at t red modern boat. 

Core modules

OS101
Introduction to Ocean Science 20 credits

This module provides an introduction to the breadth and importance of the field of ocean science and aims to develop skills in scientific enquiry and communication.

45% Practicals

45% Tests

10% Coursework

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

OS104
Measuring the Marine Environment 20 credits

This module will introduce stage one students to the basic skills required to collect, analyse, visualise and present marine data. The module has a focus on the collection and analysis of a variety of marine data sources.

100% Coursework

OS105
Mapping the Marine Environment 20 credits

This module will introduce and help students to develop skills in field survey techniques, collation of data within software and presenting results. A range of primary data will be gathered in the field, both on land & at sea and be uploaded into software for visualisation. The assessment will address techniques, analysis and reporting.

80% Coursework

20% Practicals

OS108
Exploration and Geomorphology of the Oceans 20 credits

This module introduces students to the scope of ocean exploration and hydrography with application in a variety of marine disciplines. It covers key concepts of geodesy, optical and acoustic measurement techniques to explore underwater and geomorphological characteristics of the marine environment. Material will be explored by theory lectures, supported by practical exercises and computer laboratory practicals.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

OS109
Introduction to Biodiversity and Marine Ecosystems 20 credits

This module will provide an introduction to biodiversity with particular focus on marine organisms. Students will be taught how we name and classify species using a hierarchical system. Students will learn where different organisms live and how they interact in various ecosystems in our oceans. Students will gain a basic understanding of food webs, primary production and marine ecology.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

Year 2

In your second year, you will receive advanced training in a wide range of survey equipment, with a particular focus on seafloor mapping. You'll cover marine positioning, underwater acoustics and digital mapping topics as well as developing an understanding of the physical coastal environment. 
You’ll also be able to broaden your studies by taking an option module in meteorology, remote sensing or scientific diving (for suitably qualified individuals). As part of your independent skills progression, you will develop a proposal for your final year research project.
Research vessel Falcon Spirit. ROV

Core modules

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

OS202
Monitoring the Marine Environment 20 credits

Monitoring of the marine environment provides data that underpins research, exploitation, management and policy development. Through this module, students will learn about the practicalities of reliable data collection, be introduced to the full breadth of secondary data sources from across the subject area and develop associated skills in time-series data analysis techniques and interpretation.

60% Practicals

40% Coursework

OS203
Seafloor Mapping 20 credits

This module introduces techniques for mapping the seafloor with an emphasis on the nature, propagation and application of sound underwater for sonar surveys.

100% Coursework

OS206
Researching the Marine Environment 20 credits

This module will provide fundamental skills in developing research projects and planning and executing field studies with minimal supervision. Students will identify and plan an independent research project. They will be introduced to safety and practical issues before being trained in relevant techniques and instrument programming. They will participate in instrument deployment and recovery and analyse the data acquired.

100% Coursework

Optional modules

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

OS205
Managing Human Impacts in the Marine Environment 20 credits

This module will introduce how human activities (such as fisheries, energy supply and mineral extraction) can impact the marine environment, including through pollution and biodiversity loss. The concepts of marine management and conservation will be introduced and methods of preventing and managing anthropogenic impacts will be introduced and evaluated and their role in marine conservation discussed.

100% Coursework

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

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.
Research at the edge of the sea

Core modules

BPIE338
Ocean Science Placement 0 credits

A period of professional training (minimum 26 weeks) 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 or workplace experience, to apply knowledge from the first two stages of study and to prepare for employment after graduation.

Final year

The final year modules focus on hydrographic surveying in coastal and offshore environments, including the use of marine autonomy, surveying for renewable energy, offshore construction, resource management and applied ocean exploration. You’ll participate in a residential field course, with the option to study overseas, to further develop your practical skills. 
You’ll be able to broaden your studies to include an optional module, for example in big data, marine pollution, marine policy and planning or coastal processes. You will complete a research project, carrying out your own in-depth investigation, potentially involving practical work, under the guidance of a member of academic staff.
Miranda Soskin, BSc (Hons) Oceanography and Coastal Processes, out in the field completing research work on Seaton beach, Cornwall.

Core modules

OS305
Coastal Survey 20 credits

This module provides issues relevant to a fuller understanding of variables and actions in the marine environment, including environmental legislation and ethics, data collection techniques, its analysis and assessment in compliance with the sustainable future vision. The module includes elements of fieldwork for data acquisition and archaeology.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

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

OS318
Applied Ocean Exploration

This module will provide the fundamental skills required by students in planning, preparing and executing geophysical and acoustic surveys needed to underpin exploration and measurement for port maintenance and development; for offshore exploration and the foundation studies needed to assess mineral resources and to permit marine infrastructure emplacement through an assessment from water column to the sub-seabed.

Optional modules

OS306
Coastal Geomorphology and Estuaries 20 credits

A study of the different geomorphological archetypes of the coastal zone which builds on the student's knowledge of physical processes to describe how the geographical characteristics of these zones develop. The module explores how the characteristics of these zones influence the associated ecosystems and examines how human utilisation of this space contributes to or conflicts with the natural setting.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

OS307
Marine Conservation Policy and Planning 20 credits

This module explores issues surrounding the maintenance of a healthy marine environment. It will develop an understanding of marine governance, including policy frameworks and agencies responsible for implementing marine conservation strategy. Topics include the range of measures and approaches for successful marine conservation and the importance of taking holistic approaches to management, including policy and planning

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

OS312
Marine Science Field Course (UK) 20 credits

This module provides an opportunity to consolidate field skills and marine science knowledge through an intensive field research course. Students will work in groups to plan and conduct fieldwork to explore a chosen marine science theme. Factors including safety, weather, and experimental design will be addressed.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

OS313
Ocean Science and Marine Conservation Field Course 20 credits

This module provides an opportunity to consolidate field skills and marine science knowledge through an intensive field research course. Students will work in groups to plan and conduct fieldwork to explore a chosen marine science theme. Factors including safety, weather, and experimental design will be addressed.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

OS314
Oceanography, Coastal Processes and Surveying Field Course 20 credits

This module provides an opportunity to consolidate field skills and marine science knowledge through an intensive field research course. Students will work in groups to plan and conduct fieldwork to explore a chosen marine science theme. Factors including safety, weather, and experimental design will be addressed.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

OS317
Big Data for Marine Science 20 credits

Addressing societal challenges such as climate change, anthropogenic waste in the marine environment, and resource management requires an ability to run numerical models and to source, manipulate and interpret open access data. This module will equip students with the technical knowledge and computational skills to analyse and visualise these 'big' datasets with an emphasis on their application to key marine challenges.

100% Coursework

Building invaluable skills

Toward the end of the second year, you will be based at the Marine Station for an immersive hydrographic survey-focussed training month. You’ll be taught everything you need to conduct scientific surveys using industry-standard equipment on your own.
In addition to learning how the equipment works, you will be trained to prepare and program it ready for data acquisition before going to sea to deploy it. 
You will then recover the equipment, and the data collected before processing and analysing it using scientific software – an invaluable capability when it comes to finding employment.
OS206 fieldwork

Marine science undergraduate scheme

The scheme allows flexibility and transfer between our suite of three specialist BSc courses up until the end of Year 2.

USV Cetus & Falcon Spirit
BSc (Hons) Ocean Exploration and Surveying
Includes specialised teaching in marine ecology, conservation field sampling and research methods. Field trips have included the Bahamas, Bali and Isles of Scilly.
First year marine science students fieldwork trip on board university boat Falcon Spirit.
BSc (Hons) Ocean Science
Includes an oceanography focused module, a practical oceanography skills-based module and multiple boat work sessions. Field trips have included the Maldives and Isles of Scilly.
Assessing coastal vulnerability of Drakes Island - Emilie Warren
BSc (Hons) Ocean Science and Marine Conservation
Includes specialised teaching in marine ecology, conservation field sampling and research methods. Field trips have included the Bahamas, Bali and Isles of Scilly.
 
The Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES) is the leading international professional body for specialists in geospatial engineering and commercial management in infrastructure. CICES membership demonstrates that individuals are competent in their field and committed to continuing professional development.
Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors logo

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

Develop your practical skills ready for the workplace

We are unrivalled in offering hands-on training opportunities in the field of ocean exploration and surveying. Throughout the course, you’ll gain extensive experience in preparing, deploying, maintaining and using industry-standard hydrographic equipment on our fleet of survey vessels .
Learn to use specialist equipment on aerial, surface and subsurface platforms including GNSS positioning, acoustic mapping and positioning (e.g. single beam, multibeam, sidescan sonar, USBL), oceanographic survey (e.g. acoustic doppler current profiler), aerial survey (e.g. photogrammetry) and geophysical survey (e.g. subbottom assessment) and autonomous and uncrewed platforms. 
Data processing and analysis takes place in our specialist hydrographic processing suite using industry-standard software, helping you build confidence and independence in real-world environments.

The purpose of this activity is to give the students the practical skills which are necessary and invaluable in the workplace. The overall aim is to prepare the students not just to deploy equipment but to prepare it throughout the whole process of collecting the data and then taking the data from the instrument that we've deployed and analysing the output in the lab.

Philip HosegoodDr Philip Hosegood
Associate Professor in Physical Oceanography

Boost your skills and experience with a placement

“My placement really consolidated what I learnt during my degree and gave me experience of working in an offshore environment. To be able to go into industry and have a bit of experience really does help!â€
" See why BSc (Hons) Ocean Exploration and Surveying student Paul chose Â鶹´«Ã½ to study Marine Sciences.

Integrate scientific diving into your degree pathway

At Â鶹´«Ã½, you’ll have the unique opportunity to gain the HSE Professional SCUBA certification alongside your degree.
The course is an intensive four week programme designed to prepare candidates for undertaking media, scientific and archaeological diving projects. 
Students with HSE SCUBA can request to dive as part of their dissertation projects where the collection of underwater data is required. 
2 divers in the sea with a flag and boat
 
 
 

Participate in our field trips

Fieldwork presents opportunities to apply your knowledge to different environments, and to consolidate your practical skills. You will get the opportunity to use industry-standard equipment and perform scientific research techniques. 
Optional field trip locations (including scientific diving) have included the Isles of Scilly and the Maldives.

In my final year, we took a field trip to the Isles of Scilly ... we learned a huge amount about how to position our equipment using satellites, do bathymetric surveys and use drones to map the shape of the land (the pub grub was amazing too!).

Paul, BSc (Hons) Ocean Exploration and Surveying

Residential Isles of Scilly field trip

Isles of Scilly - Oceanography and Coastal Processes
Isles of Scilly - Oceanography and Coastal Processes
Isles of Scilly - Oceanography and Coastal Processes
Isles of Scilly - Oceanography and Coastal Processes
Isles of Scilly - Oceanography and Coastal Processes

Maldives field trip

The Maldives field trip was amazing from start to finish. It was fantastic to take samples on the most perfect, untouched remote tropical islands, working in the warmest crystal blue water every day and among stunning palm-fringed atoll islands. It was just a totally different and dynamic environment to work in. I was challenged to learn as much as possible during the week and found the module super absorbing.

Student Helen Green took part in the Maldives residential field trip during her third-year optional module, collecting pilot data for a multi-group collaborative project.
 
Research vessel JOIDES Resolution surrounded by sea ice as it approaches Antarctica's eastern Ross Sea (Credit: Jenny Gales)

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 expeditions have included Greenland and the South Sandwich Islands, Antarctica. 
 
 
 

Final-year project

The final-year project is a significant piece of independent, research-based work, designed by you and supported by academic staff acting as project advisors. You're encouraged to develop your own project idea within the year two research skills module and wherever possible, projects have a practical component – such as collecting new data through field or laboratory work, or analysis of existing datasets.
During project fieldwork, you will have access to our wide range of instrumentation and boats. If you've taken the relevant modules, you may even base your project on scientific diving. Building on the skills modules embedded during years 1 and 2, you will be able to plan and execute your field work with a large degree of independence. You will be encouraged to develop your own ideas, with guidance from academic staff available as needed.
Divers returning from a dive - Oceanography and Coastal Processes

Research-informed teaching

Throughout your course, you'll be taught by academics who are engaged in a wide range of research and also have the chance to conduct your honours project with a research active supervisor. You'll have the opportunity to be part of research projects in the latest advances in marine science.
Dr Jenny Gales Associate Professor in Hydrography and Ocean Exploration


Associate Professor in Hydrography and Ocean Exploration

Dr Philip Hosegood Associate Professor in Physical Oceanography


Associate Professor in Physical Oceanography

Professor Abigail McQuatters-Gollop Associate Head of School - International


Associate Head of School - International

Show all

Mapping submarine volcanoes in the sub-Antarctic South Sandwich Islands 

“My research focuses on understanding Antarctic submarine geohazards, including volcanoes, earthquakes, landslides and tsunamis, and the processes that shape and trigger them. I use ocean exploration techniques to investigate and map the seafloor, including remotely operated vehicles and autonomous underwater vehicles. This research is vital for improving our ability to predict, assess and mitigate future geohazards in one of the most isolated and dynamic regions on Earth.â€
" Take a look at the led by Jenny Gales.

Waterfront campus

Explore marine life in its natural habitat along the stunning and diverse Devon and Cornwall coastline, including the South Devon coast, identified as the area of highest marine biodiversity in the UK.
Â鶹´«Ã½ is a hub of activity for the study of marine life. An incredible concentration of internationally-renowned marine scientists, across several international organisations in the region, provides excellent opportunities for research and volunteering.

With regards to marine science, the facilities, equipment and fleet are without comparison anywhere in the country. Â鶹´«Ã½, with sea to the south and Dartmoor to the north, is a great place to be.

BSc (Hons) Ocean Exploration graduate
Â鶹´«Ã½ Sound on a sunny day
Â鶹´«Ã½ Sound
Exploring rocky shores on the South Devon coast
Exploring the shoreline on the South Devon coast
Students on the Falcon Spirit boat in Â鶹´«Ã½ Sound
Falcon Spirit, just one of our vessels
 

Marine Station 

Our students have access to the Marine Station, a state-of-the-art teaching and research facility that serves all our marine-based courses including civil engineering, earth sciences and marine biology. 
Situated on the shores of Â鶹´«Ã½ Sound as part of our ‘Waterfront Campus’, the facility offers labs and classrooms extending out into the natural environment, a wet lab for sample examination and analysis, a seawater aquarium, field equipment storage and changing facilities. It is also the base for our research vessels and a centre of excellence for diving. 
 
Marine Station

Meet our Marine Station technical staff  

Our technical staff are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories, workshops, and the field. 
 
 
 

Enrich your studies – join a student society

If you're passionate about the ocean and the wonderful marine world we find beneath the surface, then join the . Throughout the year, we provide access to exclusive events, activities and fun; with a focus on academic talks, outdoor adventures and society socials.
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Whether you’re an experienced diver or brand new to the sport, everyone is welcome to join the vibrant . We work closely with Indeep, our affiliated dive centre, to ensure we offer the best diving experiences possible. Explore local wrecks and reefs during our monthly dives, open to anyone with Advanced Open Water certification or higher (maximum depth: 30m).
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Students training for HSE Professional SCUBA diving certification alongside their degree. Quarry dive.
 
We have strong links with , a learned professional society that aims to raise awareness of the science of surveying at sea, and protect and promote the status of the hydrographic profession. Membership of THS:UKI includes companies, individual professionals and students, who are hydrographers, technologists, policy makers and educators.
The Hydrographic Society UK & Ireland (THS:UKI) 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

This highly employable degree leads into the growing hydrographic industry which is currently experiencing an international shortage. There are opportunities for employment in the offshore survey sector, in marine autonomy, environmental consultancy, marine renewables energy, coastal management and construction, marine resource management, and research. A defining feature is the focus on developing practical skills that enhance the employability of our students. 
Our links with the hydrographic industry strengthen our community, employment and research opportunities. Strong links with local hydrographic companies provide countless opportunities for volunteering, collaborations, mentoring and networking.
A wealth of fascinating and rewarding career options in the commercial, public, and not-for-profit sectors await; opportunities for ocean exploration and surveying graduates include but are not limited to:
  • oceanographic consultancy
  • postgraduate research
  • coastal management agencies
  • offshore renewable energy
  • Meteorological Office.

The University is large, well-resourced, and a pleasant place to study. With regards to marine science, the facilities, equipment and fleet are without comparison anywhere in the country. For those interested there is also the chance to qualify as a professional diver (no other university offers this). On top of this, Â鶹´«Ã½, with sea to the south and Dartmoor to the north, is a great place to be.

Paul Aldersley – BSc (Hons) Ocean Exploration graduate

  • ]95% of our ocean exploration and surveying graduates are in work or further study

  • Ê91% of our ocean exploration and surveying graduates feel that staff supported their learning well

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.
 

TOTUS student scholarship

With thanks to TOTUS Engineering, we are able to provide one scholarship a year to a student who is intending to study one of our undergraduate Biological Science, Marine Biology or Ocean Science degrees and fulfils at least one of the required criteria.
The recipient will receive £500 per year for the three years of their undergraduate course (excluding placement year) to help with their studies.
Find out more and apply
At the beginning of their second year, Marine Biology students go on an experimental field course to Portugal, resized
 
 

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
112 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
Must have Grade C / 4  at GCSE Maths and English.

A levels
112 points from minimum of 2 A levels, including Grade C in at least one relevant science subject: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics. Computer Science, Design and Technology, Electronics, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Marine Science, Psychology, Sociology, Statistics. Excluding General Studies.

BTEC National Diploma modules
BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: DMM – DDM in a relevant science subject.
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
Pass Access (Science), (including GCSE English and mathematics grade C or above or equivalent) with between 24-30 credits at Distinction depending on subject, the remaining units at Merit or above. If not science related Access please contact the admissions team at admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

T level
Merit – any 3 science pathways, plus GCSE Maths grade 4/C or above.

International Baccalaureate
28–30 overall to include at least one relevant science subject.

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
F731
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Â鶹´«Ã½
    •  

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
     
    Our typical offer
    112 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
    F731
    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
     
     
     

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    Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the Â鶹´«Ã½.
     
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    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.