School of Biological and Marine Sciences

BSc (Hons) Ocean Science

UCAS tariff 112 - 128 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 F736
Institution code P60
Duration

3 years

(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location Plymouth
Register for open day
Apply at UCAS.com

Are you motivated by a desire to understand the physical processes acting throughout the world’s oceans that underpin the development of effective management and conservation strategies? If so, this course prepares you for a career in applied oceanography, coastal zone management or scientific research. You’ll develop the practical skills needed to collect and analyse data from the marine environment alongside an advanced understanding of ocean dynamics and processes.

Have you considered...

Key features
  • Ranked top 15 in the UK and top 100 globally for Earth and Marine Sciences in the QS World University Rankings 2023.
  • Participate in practical activities during field work in Plymouth Sound, and further afield during the residential field week.
  • Benefit from access to a range of high specification oceanographic instrumentation that you will be trained to independently prepare, deploy and recover.
  • Pursue optional subjects that interest you most from a range including meteorology, remote sensing, marine conservation, hydrographic surveying, modelling ocean processes and marine pollution.
  • Progress into work in oceanographic research and consultancy, coastal zone management and related marine-science industries such as the emerging field of marine renewable energy.
  • Develop your range of practical skills with our own fully-equipped fleet of boats, a £4.65 million Marine Station used as a base for fieldwork afloat and industry-standard oceanographic and surveying equipment.
  • Choose to take the industry-recognised professional diving qualification (HSE Professional SCUBA) alongside your degree and an optional scientific diving module to provide training and qualification for diving-based research projects and employment (limited places and additional costs apply).
  • Experience an overseas field course that integrates ocean science knowledge and understanding from across the different sub-disciplines to address real-world issues.

Course details

  • Year 1

  • 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. You’ll build practical skills and enhance your ability to analyse, present and interpret scientific data through field-based activities.

    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 world's 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’ll deepen your understanding of the core aspects of physical, chemical and biological oceanography as well as beginning to focus on the physical processes that shape the open ocean and coastal environments. You’ll receive advanced training in the preparation, programming, deployment, recovery and maintenance of instrumentation and develop a proposal for your final year research project. You’ll also be able to broaden your interests into areas such as meteorology, remote sensing and scientific diving.

    Core modules

    OS201
    Global Ocean Processes 20 credits

    This module explores the large-scale distribution and characteristics of water masses and biogeochemical properties throughout the global oceans. Physical mechanisms that drive the global circulation in a changing climate will be investigated alongside their role in determining the transport of chemical constituents throughout the open ocean and in shelf seas. The life cycles and distribution of marine organisms and the structuring of marine foodwebs will be 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.

    100% Coursework

    OS204
    Waves, Tides and Coastal Dynamics 20 credits

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

    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

    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

    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.

    80% Coursework

    20% Practicals

    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 (e.g., frontal weather, cloud development, atmospheric flow, extra-tropical cyclone).

    100% Coursework

    OS209
    Marine Remote Sensing 20 credits

    This module introduces the theory underlying remote sensing using introductory lectures and laboratory practicals. An opportunity to apply the theory in the remote sensing context is provided by boat and computing work. Remote sensing imagery is introduced early in the module and students work on image enhancement, analysis and interpretation in the latter part of the course, supported by theory lectures and/or workshops.

    50% Coursework

    50% Tests

  • Optional placement year

  • Gain relevant industrial or workplace experience with the Ocean Science placement.

    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

  • During your final year, you’ll complete your core training in advanced aspects of ocean dynamics and coastal processes and participate in a residential field trip where you’ll use and develop your practical skills. A large proportion of your time will be spent completing your individual research project for which you will be given guidance by a member of academic staff. You’ll also be able to pursue an option module, for example to explore ocean modelling, climate science or marine pollution.

    Core modules

    OS303
    Ocean Dynamics 20 credits

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

    100% Coursework

    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

    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

    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

    OS309
    Marine Pollution and Environmental Change 20 credits

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

    60% Coursework

    40% Examinations

    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

    OS315
    Modelling Ocean and Climate Processes 20 credits

    This module introduces students to the key concepts of oceanic and climate processes, and their practical implementation in simple and advanced models. The module covers introductory material on the theory of ocean dynamics, climate processes, and fundamental principles used in their modelling. Computational numerical methods is an important element. The focus of the module is on the construction and operation of models to predict the ocean and climate, and critical analysis of the model output.

    100% Coursework

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

112 - 128

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:112 -128 points to include a 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/QCF Extended Diploma: DMM - DDM in a relevant science subject.
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.
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 points overall to include at least one relevant science subject.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary .

Fees, costs and funding
New student 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

On Monday 4 November 2024, the UK Government announced a proposal to increase tuition fees for home undergraduate students from £9,250 to £9,535 per annum from September 2025 onwards. The University of Plymouth intends to apply this new fee from September 2025. However, implementation of this increase will be subject to parliamentary procedure. This change applies to new students starting their studies in September 2025. For current and returning students, the University is reviewing fees and will update you as soon as possible.

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 all undergraduate students completing any part of their placement year in the UK in 2024/2025 is £1,850.
The fee for all undergraduate students completing their whole placement year outside the UK in 2024/2025 is £1,385.
 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

BSc (Hons) Ocean Science focuses primarily on the physical processes that govern ocean circulation from a global scale all the way down to millimetre-scale turbulence. These processes control the impact of the ocean on climate and the marine life living within it, and the coastal processes that are so important to modern society within which communities are often located adjacent to increasingly stormy seas. The development of effective conservation strategies increasingly requires knowledge and understanding of the role of ocean currents and changes in water properties in shaping the response of marine organisms, such as turbulent flows creating optimal foraging grounds for predators or coral bleaching being reduced by the upwelling of cold, deep water to the surface.
The course will develop not only your fundamental knowledge of this environment and the processes occurring within it, but also your skills in using the tools necessary for observing and understanding them. This includes the instrumentation used to measure water properties and currents, the computer software required to analyse the data obtained from the instruments, and research skills that will enable you go on and operate independently in the marine environment throughout your career. We’ll support you throughout the course as you develop these skills, and provide you with the access to our outstanding facilities so that you can have the time you need to learn.

Marine science undergraduate scheme

BSc (Hons) Ocean Science is one of a suite of three specialist BSc courses in the marine science undergraduate scheme:
The scheme allows flexibility and transfer between courses up until the end of Year 2.

Develop your practical skills ready for the workplace

Falcon Spirit
Fieldwork
Unrivalled training opportunities in the field. Throughout this course you will receive extensive training in the preparation, deployment and maintenance of oceanographic instrumentation.
Divers returning from a dive - Oceanography and Coastal Processes
Project work
Your final year project is a significant piece of independent, research-based work – designed by you.
2 divers in the sea with a flag and boat
HSE Professional SCUBA diving course
Plymouth is unique in offering our students the opportunity to gain the HSE Professional SCUBA certification alongside their degree.

Field trips

Experience an overseas field trip that integrates ocean science knowledge and understanding from across the different sub-disciplines to address real-world issues.
"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. The opportunity to work alongside our lecturers and PhD students, collecting pilot data for a multi-group collaborative project, was fascinating. The field trip was the highlight of my degree and has encouraged me to seek out work post-graduation in coastal oceanography. An unmissable experience!"
Helen Green, BSc (Hons) Ocean Science
Helen took part in the Maldives residential field trip during her third-year optional module.

Residential Isles of Scilly field trip

Research and fieldwork

Find out more about the research and fieldwork opportunities available on BSc (Hons) Ocean Science.

Research on seamounts in the Indian Ocean
Dr Phil Hosegood led a team of Plymouth marine scientists to investigate how the oceanographic environment shapes the marine ecosystem.

Maldives research – physical oceanographic processes strongly influence the behaviour of animals living in the marine environment
Dr Hosegood explains how ocean currents influence manta ray foraging in Hanifaru Bay in the Maldives.

Training the next generation of oceanographers
Second years become immersed in an intensive module where they hone their practical skills at sea and take a leading role in running fieldwork.

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 Plymouth 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

Graduate insight

Miranda Soskin, BSc (Hons) Oceanography and Coastal Processes, out in the field completing research work on Seaton beach, Cornwall.
Miranda: The draw of the sea
Discover how Miranda transformed her passion for the ocean into a career as a Coastal Processes Scientist with Plymouth Coastal Observatory
Paul Aldersley
Paul: Plymouth, with sea to the south and Dartmoor to the north, is a great place to be
Read how Paul returned to education as a mature student and now works as an Offshore Surveyor

Learn from experts

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.