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Contact our Clearing hotline to discuss your options and secure your place this September
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Undergraduate course
BSc (Hons)
Marine Biology
Join a marine biology degree with an international reputation. With doorstep access to a stunning coastline and some of Europe’s best marine facilities, you'll experience marine biology at the highest level, both in the laboratory and field.
Our typical offer
120 UCAS points
Learn from the best
We're at the forefront of knowledge in how marine organisms are composed, function, evolve and interact within ecosystems.
From the laboratory to field
Developing rigorous scientists through practical experience in core research skills and cutting-edge techniques.
Facing global challenges
We'll prepare you to find the answers to fundamental questions and solutions for the challenges associated with climate change, habitat loss, pollution and sustainable food production.
About
Our city's seafront location hosts one of the highest concentrations of marine scientists in Europe with links to internationally renowned research institutions, so you won't just be studying a degree in Marine Biology, you'll be joining a hub of activity for the study of marine life.
Professor Richard Thompson OBE FRS
Richard is a world-leading marine scientist and is at the forefront of pioneering research into the causes and effects of marine litter.
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 exploring marine life, from coastal margins to the deep sea
you seek hands-on experience in both laboratory and field settings
you are passionate about understanding and finding solutions to the challenges facing marine ecosystems
you want to develop the practical, intellectual, and scientific skills to become a practising marine biologist
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 two week-long field courses introducing you to the spectacular marine environments in South West England and the processes of scientific investigation, data collection and analysis
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 year two, you’ll sharpen your practical skills in the setting of the South Devon coastline, just minutes away, and on a residential field course that currently takes place in the Algarve, Portugal. We’ll introduce you to methods for collecting, handling and analysing scientific data, and provide a deeper understanding of biology of marine organisms and the ecology of shallow water marine habitats. Depending on your choice of modules, you can receive training in underwater sampling, state-of-the art molecular biology or general ecological principles.
Core 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
MBIO222
Ecophysiology of Marine Animals
20 credits
This module will develop a detailed understanding of how marine organisms work within an ecological and evolutionary context.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
MBIO226
Experimental Marine Biology Field Course
20 credits
The ability to accurately describe organisms and the environments in which they live; and to design, conduct, analyse and present the outcomes of experiments is fundamental to scientific advancement. Conducted during a residential overseas field course, this module focuses on practical field- and laboratory-based study of aquatic habitats, assemblages and organisms.
70% Coursework
30% 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
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
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
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
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
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.
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 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, while studying at the cutting edge of marine biology.
Core modules
MBIO329
Marine Biology: An Evolutionary Approach
20 credits
This module is a discussion of recent advances in selected areas of marine biology but within an explicitly evolutionary context. There is a strong emphasis on critical evaluation of relevant primary literature.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
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
BIOL322
Aquatic Microbial Ecology
20 credits
This module covers methodologies and current research in aquatic microbial ecology. You will study microbial life from all three domains of life - the Eukarya, Bacteria and Archaea as well as viruses. You will cover freshwater (lakes, rivers), marine (polar ice caps, neuston, benthic plain, hydrothermal vents) and hypersaline (playas, soda lakes) ecosystems as well as flora and fauna of these ecosystems as habitats.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
MBIO317
Behavioural Ecology
20 credits
This module examines the theory underpinning key conceptual models in behavioural ecology (e.g. optimal foraging, ideal free distribution, game theory). These models will be critically discussed in relation to empirical studies.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
MBIO324
Speciation and Diversity
20 credits
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.
70% Examinations
30% Coursework
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
MBIO364
Conservation Physiology
20 credits
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.
60% Examinations
40% Coursework
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.
Includes marine biology, ecotoxicology and conservation physiology modules. Fieldtrips have included the UK and Portugal.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology
Includes specialist modules in marine ecology, conservation and applied aquatics. Fieldtrips have included the UK and South Africa.
Includes specialist modules in marine ecology, conservation and applied aquatics. Fieldtrips have included the UK and South Africa.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography
Includes specialist ocean processes, and waves tides and coastal dynamics modules. Fieldtrips have included the UK and Sweden.
Includes specialist ocean processes, and waves tides and coastal dynamics modules. Fieldtrips have included the UK and Sweden.
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
Benefit from fieldwork, near and far
At Plymouth, you’ll go beyond the classroom, applying theory to real-world research through local and international field trips.
From the diverse coastline of the South West to global destinations, you'll explore marine ecosystems firsthand, gaining invaluable experience that enhances both your degree and career prospects.
Previous students have studied rocky shores, seagrass meadows, and estuaries along the UK’s coast, as well as tropical and temperate marine environments further afield.
Fieldwork gives you an end-to-end experience of conducting a scientific study from developing hypotheses, designing experiments, collecting data, analysing results and communicating findings through to scientific reports. The skills you gain from fieldwork are highly sought after by employers and can include:
- data and sample collection and analysis in varied marine habitats
- experience using scientific equipment and technology, from sonar mapping to ROVs
- scientific writing and reporting, preparing you for careers in research and conservation
- teamwork in challenging and dynamic field conditions
- problem-solving in real-world ecological research
- communicating project work and ideas through oral presentations.
My favourite memory of Plymouth is probably the field trip to Portugal...the group research projects were great and it’s amazing how much you can learn in a week.
Tom, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology graduate
Facilities to support your learning
We have a selection of cutting edge facilities to enhance your experience and provide the best learning environment
Situated on the shores of Plymouth Sound as part of our waterfront campus, the Marine Station offers labs and classrooms extending out into the natural environment. It is also the base for our research vessels and a centre of excellence for diving.
Marine Station
Waterfront labs and classrooms at the Marine Station
Our fleet of boats
Practical sessions, individual project work and research all benefit from
our fleet of research vessels
.
One of the main reasons I came to study at Plymouth was the facilities and the fact that I could use them and that they weren’t reserved for research and external bookings. It was great being able to use equipment that I would be using out in the field- it really helped me to develop a deeper understanding of the field.
Luke, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology graduate
Expand your horizons with a research expedition
Research Expeditions offer the chance to assist our expert researchers in the field, both locally and internationally.
Unlike course-based field trips, these expeditions span diverse disciplines, allowing students to choose a project that aligns with their interests while gaining hands-on research experience and valuable skills.
Previously students have ...
- taken part in cetacean surveys aboard the University yacht, Take The Helm, between Plymouth and the Isles of Scilly
- carried out assessments of south west UK fish nurseries, catching, identifying and measuring juvenile fish in a number of key estuary sites
- spent two-weeks on a field course in North Sulawesi (Bunaken and Bangka islands) where they learned about the biodiversity of coral reefs and how to monitor them
- enjoyed a week in the Azores, 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.
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Fish netting in the UK.
Diving in Indonesia.
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.
Keep up to date
Follow us to get a greater insight into what you might experience on a marine biology degree at Plymouth.
Learn from experts
Our links with world renowned research institutions strengthen our community and research opportunities.
We have strong links with institutions including:
The good thing about the University’s location is that Plymouth is home to a number of marine organisations (the Marine Biological Association, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Shark Trust, etc.), which provide countless opportunities for volunteering, collaborations and networking. For me, two separate bouts of volunteering at the MBA led to further research positions overseas through connections and referrals.
Graduate, Grace.
Dr Benjamin Ciotti
Associate Professor of Marine Biology
Dr Manuela Truebano
Associate Professor in Marine Ecophysiology
Dr Miriam Reverter
Lecturer in Marine Biology
Enrich your studies – join the Marine Biology Society (MBS)
The University of Plymouth Marine Biology Society (MBS) are involved in anything and everything Marine Biology or Ocean Science. The committee, and members, are passionate about our oceans and the wonderful marine world we find beneath the surface.
Throughout the year, with your membership, you will have access to the exclusive events, activities and fun which the MBS offers, including; socials, academic talks from many internal and external speakers, documentary and film screenings, rock pooling sessions, photography competitions, trips, placement opportunity talks ... and much, much more.
Life in Plymouth
Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Get involved with one of our many student groups
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
Plymouth makes you more passionate about the ocean and studying here kept me on the right path. I wanted to be by the ocean, I wanted to dive, I wanted to surf and I wanted to study with the best marine biologists in the country. Plymouth was fantastic for me and I will always love it.
Rory Moore, Head of Conservation at the Blue Marine Foundation
As a marine biology graduate your career options are as expansive as the oceans you study. Whether you want to become a research scientist or work in the field of conservation, we’ll assist you throughout your degree to ensure that by the time you graduate you’ll be en-route to the career of your choice.
This is a competitive but fascinating and dynamic field and our graduates can be found all over the world ...
- In research institutions
- Working with charities and NGOs
- Monitoring the environment and fisheries
- Working on the filming and / or production of nature documentaries
- Promoting important marine conservation messages
- Providing commercial environmental or ecological consultancy services
- Influencing government policies through research and campaigning
- Inspiring and educating the scientists and conservationists of tomorrow
- Communicating science through scientific journalism
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys 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
My placement experience has played a big part in how I envisage my future career. It has given me a point of reference that i can use to gain perspective every time I feel overwhelmed by stressful situations - a final goal that can drive my life. Without this placement opportunity, I don't think I would be as motivated as I am to pursue a career in marine research.
Francisco worked as a Research Intern at the Instituto de Investigacións Mariñas, Spain
While we can equip you with as much hands-on experience and opportunity to put theory into practice as possible, a placement can provide you with that little bit extra to make you stand out from the crowd.
Our students have taken part in placements all over the world; they have helped to further research, worked on specialist projects, protected fragile marine environments and developed HSE diving skills. Some have used the experience to help them decide on a career path and many been offered graduate employment with their placement organisations.
Where will your work placement take you...?
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
£795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
£19,200 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
£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
.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to field-based activities or equipment requirements.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Places still available
Contact our Clearing hotline to discuss your options and secure your place this September
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
120 UCAS points
120 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) English and Mathematics at grade C / 4 or above.
A levels
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
C161
C161
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Other routes into this course
The following courses are available as routes into this programme.
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
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.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
C161
C161
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Other routes to this course
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.
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 University of Plymouth.
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*These are the latest results from the National Student Survey. Please note that the data published on Discover Uni is updated annually in September.