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School of Biological and Marine Sciences

BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology

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UCAS tariff 120 Contextual offers
A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes personal circumstances that may affect grades into account.
UCAS course code C160
Institution code P60
Duration

3 years

(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location Plymouth

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 the South West of Britain 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.

Key features
  • Ranked top 15 in the UK and top 100 globally for Earth and Marine Sciences in the QS World University Rankings 2023.
  • 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 a residential field course in 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.

Course details

  • Year 1

  • 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.

    Core modules

    BIOL131
    Cells: The Building Blocks of Life 20 credits

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

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    MBIO120
    Introduction to Marine Biology 20 credits

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

    100% Coursework

    MBIO123
    Marine Biology Field Course 20 credits

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

    75% Coursework

    25% Tests

    MBIO161
    Evolution and Behaviour 20 credits

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

    50% Examinations

    50% Tests

    MBIO162
    Biodiversity 20 credits

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

    50% Practicals

    50% Examinations

    OS102
    Physical and Chemical Processes of the Ocean 20 credits

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

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

  • Year 2

  • In your second year, you’ll 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.

    Core 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

    MBIO213
    Coastal Biodiversity and Ecology Field Course 20 credits

    100% Coursework

    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

    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

    BIOL204
    Principles of Conservation Biology 20 credits

    Successful conservation is dependent on a thorough grasp of fundamental biological principles. The conceptual aspects of population, molecular, & evolutionary ecology which are central to understanding the dynamics of, and future threats to, extant populations of organisms are reviewed.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    MBIO220
    Applied Aquatic Biology 20 credits

    This module introduces the main effects that humans have on key freshwater and marine ecosystems throughout the globe, as well as strategies for the monitoring, conservation and sustainable use of these systems.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    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

    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.

    60% Examinations

    40% 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.

    80% Coursework

    20% Practicals

  • 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.

    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 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.

    Core modules

    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

    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

    BIOL308
    Applied Conservation Biology 20 credits

    Focuses on application of biological theory to successfully managing populations in wild and captive environments. The emphasis is on how theory feeds into and informs working practice. Along with advancing their theoretical knowledge, students develop knowledge of the major approaches, analytical tools, techniques and software that individuals working in the public and private conservation sectors apply in practice.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BIOL310
    Global Change Biology 20 credits

    This module provides the student with an in-depth overview of the likely consequences of climate change for plant and animal species biology and distribution over the coming century. From this starting point we will show how an understanding of climate change biology is vital for conservation theory and practice over coming decades.

    70% Examinations

    30% Coursework

    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

    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

    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% Remotely delivered assessments

    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

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.

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff

120

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

A level applicants
120 UCAS 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.
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.
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
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.
GCSE
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.
Other qualifications
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
2024-2025 2025-2026 *
Home £9,250 £9,535
International £18,100 £18,650
Part time (Home) £770 £795
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.

*UK Government announcement on tuition fees

Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.

Subject to final Parliamentary approval (expected in early March 2025), the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.

Additional costs

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 .

Tuition fees for optional placement years

The fee for home undergraduate students completing any part of their placement year in the UK in 2025/2026 is £1,905.
The fee for home undergraduate students completing their whole placement year outside the UK in 2025/2026 is £1,430.
 Learn more about placement year tuition fees

Undergraduate scholarships for international students

To reward outstanding achievement the University of Plymouth offers scholarship schemes to help towards funding your studies.

How to 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.
Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk

Our features

Marine Station

Marine Station

Falcon

Marine biology facilities

Silhouette of a group of people listening to a lecture. Mind Map 

Marine biology research and collaboration

Location

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.
Aerial view of Plymouth Sound

Studying marine biology at Plymouth

Professor Richard Thompson OBE describes the variety of marine courses available to study at the University of Plymouth.

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.
Diving in Plymouth Sound

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 currently based in 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.
Marine biology students on a beach

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.
Students on fieldwork

Louise-Oceane binoculars
Louise-Océane Delion

"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."
Caitlin Cox
Caitlin Cox

"As a leading university for marine research, Plymouth caught my eye with a large option of marine-related courses to explore. I chose to study Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology because it opened up a range of opportunities"
Sancha Conway Holroyd at COP27
Sancha Conway Holroyd

"The University sponsored me to attend One Young World as a delegate in 2021, a summit that brings young leaders together with the likes of Jane Goodall, Bob Geldof, Sylvia Earle and global leaders. I am now an ongoing ambassador for One Young World."
Rory Moore
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
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."
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.

People

Meet our school 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.

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.
Pilot whale pod - image courtesy of Getty Images

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Plymouth students working on a group project

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.
*These are the latest results from the National Student Survey. Please note that the data published on Discover Uni is updated annually in September.