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School of Biological and Marine Sciences
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology
A marine biology degree with an international reputation, you'll explore the diversity of marine life from the coast to the deep-sea. Using a range of marine organisms from the smallest microbes to the largest marine vertebrates, you'll learn how marine species and ecosystems function, consider why we see such diversity of life in our oceans, and learn how to conserve this. You'll tackle big questions like how are humans and climate change affecting marine biodiversity?
Using some of the best marine facilities in Europe alongside field work in the marine and coastal habitats of Devon, France and South Africa, and the option of becoming an HSE diver, you'll gain arguably the best practical experience of any marine biology course. By the end of your degree, your wide-range of skills and in-depth knowledge of marine biology will allow you to tackle the most pressing environmental challenges that marine systems are facing.
Marine biology courses
This is one of three marine biology undergraduate courses we offer, which are closely integrated.
Which marine biology course should I choose?
NSS results
We're very proud of our National Student Survey (NSS) 2020 return including that 100% of student respondents said that staff made the subject interesting. Other feedback included 100% also agreeing that our staff are good at explaining things and that the course was intellectually stimulating. Overall, 95% were satisfied with the quality of the course.*
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UCAS tariff 120 - 144
UCAS course code C160
Institution code P60
Duration 3 years (+ optional placement)
Course type Full-time
Location Plymouth
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We're very proud of our National Student Survey (NSS) 2020 return including that 100% of student respondents said that staff made the subject interesting. Other feedback included 100% also agreeing that our staff are good at explaining things and that the course was intellectually stimulating. Overall, 95% were satisfied with the quality of the course*
Add an exciting extra dimension to your marine studies by examining marine organisms and ecosystems in a truly global context. If you are interested in how marine and coastal habitats work, why they are so diverse and how best to conserve them, this is the course for you.
Access the University's research vessels based in the Plymouth Sound Special Area for Conservation and our Marine Station.
Benefit from our reputation as an international centre for marine and environmental research. Our expert teaching staff are active researchers and enthusiastic specialists in their fields.
Study marine life in the wild with access to the beautiful and varied Devon and Cornwall coastline. A recent World Wildlife Fund report highlighted the South Devon coast – which can be reached on foot from campus – as the area of highest marine biodiversity in the UK.
Deepen your experience through practical field and laboratory work, linked to lectures – something regularly praised by our external examiners. Our specialist facilities include advanced molecular and behavioural laboratories, a seawater aquarium, environmentally controlled labs and a bespoke marine station.
Increase your knowledge and apply your skills in an international setting, with two residential field courses abroad (France and South Africa – one of the most biodiverse places on earth), giving you the chance to study organisms and ecosystems not found in the UK.
Develop a wide range of skills that will prepare you for your chosen career and make you attractive to employers – learn how to ask and answer research questions, and how to apply this skill to conservation challenges in the real world. There is also the opportunity to gain the HSE PRO SCUBA qualification, for those with a suitable background in diving.
Immerse yourself in Plymouth's marine research culture. Alongside the University the city is home to several other world-leading establishments, one of the largest concentrations of marine science study in Europe. Take opportunities to gain extra experience working in one of the marine organisations located in Plymouth, alongside your studies.
Take the opportunity to contribute to the latest research and advances in the field – many of our students have their research projects published in leading international peer-reviewed journals.
Choose from a wide range of subjects that most interest you and are best suited to your intended career path, building your own specialisms and skills.
LABplus is a unique open access laboratory and resource centre designed for students studying science and engineering courses. The lab provides a flexible workspace, computing facilities, specialist software, access to microscopes, microscope cameras and bespoke resources.
In your first year, you'll be introduced to marine biology, ecology and key biological themes, with topics from biodiversity and ecosystems to evolution and animal behaviour. Via lectures, small group tutorials, lab and fieldwork, you'll begin to acquire skills that will boost your employability and help your career development. You'll benefit from hands-on experience on the Devon coastline, and an overseas residential field course, exposing you to different marine organisms and developing your scientific skills.
Cells: The Building Blocks of Life (BIOL131)
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.
Introduction to Marine Biology (MBIO120)
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.
Marine Biology Field Course (MBIO123)
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.
Evolution and Behaviour (MBIO161)
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.
Biodiversity (MBIO162)
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.
Physical and Chemical Processes of the Ocean (OS102)
This module provides an introduction to the main physical and chemical processes occurring in the world's oceans and a foundation in key aspects of underpinning science and mathematics.
In your second year, you'll sharpen your practical skills on the South Devon coastline, just minutes away. We'll introduce you to methods for collecting, handling and analysing scientific data, understanding ecological theories, applying these to shallow water marine habitats, and getting to grips with the major threats faced by aquatic habitats worldwide. You'll gain a deeper understanding of what shapes marine and coastal biodiversity through a residential field course, currently held in South Africa.
Ecology (BIOL214)
You will understand the basic concepts needed to solve ecological problems - individual, population and community ecology. You will explore a range of examples from terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, which will provide a useful insight into the search for general theories of ecology.
Coastal Biodiversity and Ecology Field Course (MBIO213)
Ecology of Shallow Water Marine Habitats (MBIO217)
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.
Methods in Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology (MBIO224)
Provides the core skills and techniques that will equip students to perform laboratory and field studies in Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology. Introduces appropriate methodologies for the collection, handling and analysis of data; the scientific principles underlying experimental design and the effective communication of scientific information.
Principles of Conservation Biology (BIOL204)
You will understand core biological principles that are central to successful conservation. The conceptual aspects of population, molecular and evolutionary ecology will be explored, along with their role in understanding the dynamics of and threats to extant populations of organisms.
Applied Aquatic Biology (MBIO220)
You will understand human impact on freshwater and marine ecosystems around the world as well as strategies for monitoring, conserving and sustainably using these ecosystems.
Ecophysiology of Marine Animals (MBIO222)
This module will develop a detailed understanding of how marine organisms work within an ecological and evolutionary context.
Biology of Marine Organisms (MBIO228)
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.
Scientific Diving (OS207)
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.
Optional placement year
During your optional third year, you'll have the opportunity to arrange a work placement, for a six or 12-month period. In this way you'll be applying the skills you've learned in a professional environment, gaining invaluable experience while making a host of contacts – useful when it comes to finding your first job.
Marine Biology related Placement (BPIE336)
An optional six- to twelve-month placement provides a valuable complement to your programme and is an opportunity for you to widen your employment experience and to consolidate the first two stages of study. Whether you work with conservation organisations, consultancies, research institutions or a company of your choice, you can take the opportunity to gain valuable experience and learn new skills to prepare you for the final stage of your degree and employment after graduation.
Final year
Your final year of study allows you to focus on your chosen areas of interest, building your own specialisms and skills. You'll conduct an extensive personal research project, applying the skills and methods you've learned. You'll also choose from a range of modules that are driven by the research interests of our staff, again giving you the opportunity to specialise and tailor your work towards your career goals, whilst studying at the cutting edge of the field.
Personal Research (MBIO313)
This module comprises a research study element, which includes the collection, analysis and interpretation of data; researching relevant literature and report writing and a literature review of a topic addressing wider issues of relevance to their field of research study.
Marine Ecology (MBIO327)
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.
Applied Conservation Biology (BIOL308)
You will focus on the application of biological theory to the management of populations of wild and captive animals. You will understand how theory feeds into, and informs, practice, whilst developing knowledge of the major approaches, analytical tools and techniques, and software used in the public and private conservation sectors.
Global Change Biology (BIOL310)
You will gain an overview of the state of the art understanding of the consequences of climate change across all three domains of life. From this, you will understand how climate change biology is essential in conservation theory and practice and the impacts of climate change and both local and global scales.
Behavioural Ecology (MBIO317)
You will understand the theory underpinning key conceptual models in behavioural ecology such as foraging, distribution and game theory. You will critically discuss and evaluate these models in relation to empirical studies.
Speciation and Diversity (MBIO324)
This module deals with the nature, generation and significance of biological diversity through a discussion of recent species concepts and mechanisms of speciation in a range of organisms, with emphasis on the evolutionary processes at work. This is followed by an investigation of the nature and significance of biological diversity; how it is assessed, and how it is distributed.
Ecology and Conservation of Marine Vertebrates (MBIO339)
You will understand the risks of depletion of marine vertebrates owing to fishing, industrial development, pollution and habitat degradation. You will examine the ecology of these organisms in their natural environments and will explore methods for surveying, monitoring and managing populations and species.
Fish and Fisheries (MBIO363)
This module examines aspects of fish biology and fisheries science in relation to real-world challenges of managing fish populations sustainably. This is an integrative module, which builds on fundamental principles in fish physiology, behaviour or ecology, and examines how these underpin frameworks for fisheries science.
Conservation Physiology (MBIO364)
This module introduces learners to this emerging field of conservation through a lecture-discussion based format. This module explores fundamental physiology principles and approaches that have been used to inform the conservation of marine species and ecosystems challenged by natural and anthropogenic stressors.
Marine Conservation Policy and Planning (OS307)
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
Every undergraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the course aims, the course structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.
The following programme specification represents the latest course structure and may be subject to change:
BSc Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology Programme Specification September 2022 1199
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.
In light of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the changeable nature of the situation and any updates to government guidance, we may need to make further, last minute adjustments to how we deliver our teaching and learning on some or all of our programmes, at any time during the academic year. We want to reassure you that even if we do have to adjust the way in which we teach our programmes, we will be working to maintain the quality of the student learning experience and learning outcomes at all times.
A level applicants
120-144 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.
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.
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.
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
Access course
Pass an Access to HE Science course with 60 credits overall, to include 45 credits at Level 3, of which 30 credits must be at distinction and 15 credits at merit or higher. Must include a minimum 15 credits in biology units, plus 15 credits in other relevant subjects (includes mathematics, physics, chemistry, environmental science/studies, applied science, geography, geology, technology or psychology). An interview is usually required.
All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) English and Mathematics at grade C / 4 or above.
International qualifications
We welcome applicants offering a wide range of international qualifications. Applications are considered on an individual basis, depending on the subjects studied.
Applicants with other qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for advice.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.
Fees, costs and funding
Home £9,250 £9,250
International £14,600 £16,300
Part time (Home) £770 £770
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Additional fieldwork and equipment costs.
Undergraduate scholarships for international students
To reward outstanding achievement the University of Plymouth offers scholarship schemes to help towards funding your studies.
Find out whether you are eligible and how you can apply
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code.
To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
Progression routes
International progression routes
The University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth 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.
Foundation in Biological & Biomedical Sciences
Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk
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Marine Station
Marine biology facilities
Marine biology research and collaboration
Plymouth: the place to be for marine biology.
We're lucky to have an incredibly diverse range of rich coastal habitats around the Devon and Cornwall coastline.
Find out more about our location
Studying marine biology at Plymouth
Professor Richard Thompson OBE describes the variety of marine courses available to study at the University of Plymouth.
Find out more about the courses you can study!
Welcome to marine biology at Plymouth
See what it's like to study marine biology at the University of Plymouth.
HSE Professional SCUBA diving course
Plymouth is unique in offering our students the opportunity to gain the HSE Professional SCUBA certification alongside their degree. The course is an intensive four week full-time programme designed to prepare candidates for undertaking media, scientific and archaeological diving projects. If you are looking to do any underwater work in the UK and be paid, you will require a HSE qualification. The Professional SCUBA course is the minimum requirement if you wish to work on scientific, archaeological or media diving projects. Please note that places on the course are offered subject to availability.
Learn more about the HSE Professional SCUBA diving course
Study sessions for students by students: Peer Assisted Learning Scheme (PALS)
To complement your formal learning we offer regular sessions that provide the opportunity for you to learn with and from your peers. Share knowledge, discuss ideas, and ask questions in a relaxed and friendly environment
If you are a first or second year take the opportunity to study in a relaxed environment, along with other students on the same programme.
Find out more about how PALS can benefit your studies
Scholarships available to students on marine biology and conservation courses
The University of Plymouth is joining forces with the Ocean Giants Trust to create a series of exciting new opportunities for its marine students.
Students will be able to complement their studies with work for charities in locations such as Mexico, Mozambique, the Philippines and Tanzania.
Find out more about the scholarships
Dr Antony Knights
Associate Professor in Marine Ecology
Dr Andy Foggo
Associate Professor in Ecology
Dr Benjamin Ciotti
Lecturer in Marine Biology
Dr Clare Embling
Associate Professor of Marine Ecology
Professor David Bilton
Professor of Aquatic Biology
Professor Jason Hall-Spencer
Professor of Marine Biology
Professor John Spicer
Professor Kerry Howell
Professor of Deep-Sea Ecology
Dr Louise Firth
Dr Lucy Turner
Dr Manuela Truebano
Lecturer in Marine Molecular Biology
Professor Mark Briffa
Associate Head of School (Teaching and Learning)
Professor Martin Attrill
Professor of Marine Ecology
Dr Michael Cunliffe
Associate Professor in Marine Microbiology
Dr Oliver Tills
Dr Peter Cotton
Professor Richard Thompson OBE FRS
Director of the Marine Institute
Professor Simon Rundle
Dr Stacey DeAmicis
Lecturer in Marine Ecology (Education)
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Field courses in marine biology
Field work is central to our three marine biology courses. We are proud to offer an extensive range of field work activities, both locally, making the most of our privileged location, and internationally, with residential field courses in France, South Africa, Sweden and Portugal.
Our field courses are designed by and for Marine Biologists, so that you achieve skills specific to your degree, and immerse yourself in marine biology from the first day.
Find out more about marine biology field courses
Careers in marine biology and coastal ecology
Do you want to be an ecologist or marine biologist? Or are you dedicated to carving out a career in marine conservation? As a marine biology and coastal ecology student, your career options are as expansive as the oceans you study.
Whatever your career goals, we'll work with you to give you the support you need, preparing you to make real impact in your chosen field.
Find out where marine biology and coastal ecology can take you.
Louise-Océane Delion: BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology student
Our lecturers really push us to get as much experience as possible on the side of our degree. I think the support and help they give us to go out of our comfort zone, is key to how successful we will be in our career.
Current student Louise-Océane speaks about her experience of studying Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology at the University.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology alumni
Rory Moore "Plymouth is real, it's hands-on, it's alternative, it's innovative, it's gritty, and it's a mariner's paradise."
Greta Reintjes "Plymouth gave me a great introduction to the life of a scientist. I gained a lot of knowledge but also got a lot of practical experiences such as lab work, scientific writing, presentation skills and critical thinking. "
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology Z
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography Z
BSc (Hons) Ocean Exploration and Surveying Z
BSc (Hons) Ocean Science and Marine Conservation Z
*These are the latest results from the National Student Survey. Please note that the data published on Discover Uni is updated annually in September.