TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Ocean Science and Marine Conservation

Explore the ocean’s inner workings and how to protect its life and ecosystems. This course blends ocean science, ecology, and marine policy to prepare you for a career in conservation, sustainability, and marine research.

Our typical offer

112 UCAS points

Learn in Britain's Ocean City

You'll be using our advanced equipment and research vessels at our landmark Marine Station for practical data collection, gaining sought-after experience in Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ's coastal environment.

Fieldwork from week one

Participate in field trips to coastal and offshore locations, gain hands-on experience in real-world environments and apply your skills to study marine and oceanographic processes.

Focus on global challenges

Work on projects addressing climate change, ocean health, and sustainable marine management, playing your part in making a difference to our marine world.

About

Are you are driven by a passion to couple understanding of the fundamental workings of our ocean and how it is impacted by human activities with a desire to be part of the solution to halting decline of marine ecosystems? If so, then a degree in Ocean Science and Marine Conservation is for you! Our unique degree will give you fundamental knowledge and practical skills in both ocean science and marine conservation. 
You will develop an understanding of physical ocean processes, learn about the ecology and conservation of marine ecosystems, gain hands-on field experience and learn how to apply this knowledge to protect and restore marine ecosystems. 
With a strong focus on real-world application, policy frameworks, and research training, you’ll graduate equipped to contribute to marine conservation, environmental management, scientific discovery and research – ready to make a lasting impact on the future of our ocean.
Ocean Science students on board Falcon Spirit

This course is for you if...

you have a deep appreciation for marine life and ecosystems, with a desire to protect vulnerable habitats.
Ocean pollution - bottle and dead fish in sea
you're curious to explore how ocean systems work and how human activity affects them.
Ocean with three arrows above
you're excited to study aboard our fleet of research vessels, using industry-standard oceanographic and surveying equipment.
Ship
you aspire to drive real-world change and thrive in an impactful career.
Ladder leading up to cloud, depicting career aspirations

Details

Year 1

From your very first week, you’ll be experiencing real marine science, collecting and working with live data using our own fleet of research vessels.
You’ll learn the underpinning aspects of the physics, chemistry and biology that are critical to understanding the pivotal role played by the Earth’s oceans in our modern society. Alongside this, you’ll develop hands‑on skills using cutting-edge scientific instruments, learning how to collect, analyse and communicate data with confidence.
You’ll build these skills where it matters most: out in the field, turning theory into practice through real-world scientific experiences.
Ocean Science field trip

Core modules

OS101
Introduction to Ocean Science 20 credits

Begin your journey into ocean science by exploring its breadth, importance and interdisciplinary nature. You’ll develop skills in scientific enquiry, critical thinking and communication. This module builds confidence in understanding marine systems and equips you with foundational knowledge essential for further study in oceanography and marine environmental science.

45% Practicals

45% Tests

10% Coursework

OS104
Measuring the Marine Environment 20 credits

Learn how marine scientists collect, analyse and present environmental data. You’ll work with a range of marine data sets and develop data-handling, visualisation and interpretation skills. This module establishes a strong foundation for later analytical modules in marine science.

100% Coursework

OS105
Mapping the Marine Environment 20 credits

Develop essential field survey and mapping skills for marine environments. You’ll gather primary data on land and at sea, upload them to specialised software and produce clear visualisations. Through this applied experience, you’ll strengthen your understanding of marine survey techniques, data analysis and scientific reporting.

80% Coursework

20% Practicals

OS108
Exploration and Geomorphology of the Oceans 20 credits

Explore how scientists investigate and map the seafloor using optical and acoustic techniques. You’ll study geodesy, measurement methods and key geomorphological features of the marine environment. Practical exercises and computer based sessions help you develop the analytical skills needed for modern ocean exploration.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

OS109
Introduction to Biodiversity and Marine Ecosystems 20 credits

Discover the incredible diversity of marine life and learn how species are classified, named and studied. You’ll explore where different organisms live, how they interact within ecosystems and how processes such as primary production and food webs shape marine environments. This module builds a strong foundation in marine biodiversity and ecology.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BMSMS01
Marine Science Student Support Stage 1

This module supports your early development as a marine scientist by timetabling key skill-building activities. You’ll develop essential Level 4 field, lab and data-handling abilities that underpin later modules, helping you build confidence and capability from the start of your degree.

OS110
Oceanography

This module introduces the science that shapes our oceans, exploring the physical and chemical processes that drive ocean circulation and mixing, and influence the character of marine environments worldwide. Key scientific principles are introduced along the way, helping students build a strong foundation for further study in ocean and marine sciences.

Year 2

In your second year, you’ll be introduced to specialist marine conservation concepts while continuing to expand your knowledge across the wider field of ocean science. Core marine conservation modules explore the many ways human activities affect marine ecosystems, giving you a solid scientific grounding in the challenges facing our oceans today.
You’ll also have the chance to pursue your interests through a choice of optional modules, with opportunities to study areas such as coastal oceanography, scientific diving, and more advanced hydrographic survey and mapping techniques. These modules allow you to build expertise in key areas and tailor your degree towards your future career goals.
Deploying equipment from the side of a boat

Core modules

OS201
Global Ocean Processes 20 credits

Examine the oceanographic processes that structure the global ocean and how they’re impacted by climate change. You’ll study how changes in currents and water properties at different scales affect marine organisms, food webs and biogeochemical cycling. This module develops a deep understanding of the physical, biological and chemical drivers of ocean function.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

OS202
Monitoring the Marine Environment 20 credits

Learn how marine environmental data sets are collected, evaluated and interpreted. You’ll explore the full range of secondary data sources and practise time series analysis techniques. This module provides vital skills for understanding environmental conditions and informs decision making in marine research, management and policy.

60% Practicals

40% Coursework

OS205
Managing Human Impacts in the Marine Environment 20 credits

Explore how human activities, from fisheries to energy extraction, affect marine ecosystems. You’ll study pollution, biodiversity loss and management strategies used to mitigate impacts. Through case studies and evaluation of conservation tools, this module builds your ability to assess and manage human pressures on marine environments.

100% Coursework

OS206
Researching the Marine Environment 20 credits

Develop the skills needed to plan and carry out marine field studies. You’ll design an independent research project, learn practical techniques for equipment deployment and recovery, and analyse field data. This module builds confidence in scientific planning, problem solving and hands-on research, essential for marine science careers.

100% Coursework

BMSMS02
Marine Science Student Support Stage 2

Strengthen your marine science skills in Stage 2 through coordinated activities that support your Level 5 modules. You’ll refine field, laboratory and analytical competencies, enabling you to take on more advanced research and coursework with confidence.

Optional modules

OS203
Seafloor Mapping 20 credits

Discover how sound is used to map the seafloor and explore the principles of underwater acoustics. You’ll learn about sonar systems, sound propagation and the techniques used to generate accurate seafloor maps. This module offers a practical introduction to hydrographic surveying and marine mapping technologies.

100% Coursework

OS204
Waves, Tides and Coastal Dynamics 20 credits

Study how waves and tides form, interact with coastlines and drive sediment movement. You’ll examine coastal processes such as erosion and accretion and learn to apply physical principles to real coastal settings. This module provides a strong foundation for understanding and predicting coastal change in a dynamic environment.

100% Coursework

OS207
Scientific Diving 20 credits

Enhance your research capabilities through professional level scientific diving. Suitable for students with the HSE SCUBA qualification, this module trains you in underwater photography, surveying and sampling techniques. You’ll plan and execute multidisciplinary dive projects, developing skills used in research, industry and environmental monitoring.

100% Coursework

BIOL214
Ecology 20 credits

Build a strong understanding of ecological principles at the levels of individuals, populations and communities. You’ll explore how ecological processes operate and species interact in both aquatic and terrestrial systems, and examine how scientists search for general theories in ecology. This module provides a solid conceptual framework for advanced ecological analysis and problem-solving.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

GEES2309
Weather, Climate and Meteorology 20 credits

What drives our weather and shapes our climate? Dive into the physics of the atmosphere, from thermodynamics to global circulation. You will analyse real meteorological and satellite data to understand weather systems and forecasting. By mastering these physical principles, you will uncover the scientific evidence behind climate variability and the critical role of meteorology in a sustainable future.

50% Coursework

50% Remotely delivered assessments

OS210
Remote Sensing of the Environment 20 credits

Learn how remote sensing technologies, from satellites to drones, are used to study terrestrial and marine environments. You’ll develop skills in analysing and applying remote sensing data using industry standard software and explore how these tools help solve real world environmental challenges.

50% Coursework

50% Tests

Optional placement year

Many of our students choose to take an optional placement year between their second and final years, gaining invaluable hands‑on experience in real scientific environments. You can choose to complete a minimum six‑month work placement anywhere in the world, gaining practical, career‑focused experience directly linked to your studies. This is your opportunity to apply your skills in real‑world settings, explore potential career paths and build valuable professional networks that can help shape your future in the field.
Fieldwork on the beach

Core modules

BPIE338
Ocean Science Placement 0 credits

Spend up to 48 weeks gaining real-world experience in a professional ocean science setting. This extended placement allows you to apply knowledge gained in your first two years, build workplace skills and prepare for your final stage of study. It provides valuable insight into career pathways and industry expectations in ocean science

Final year

In your final year, you’ll bring everything together! You’ll focus on advancing your understanding of marine ecosystem conservation and marine conservation policy and management. A residential fieldtrip gives you the chance apply everything you’ve learned into a real-world setting alongside peers and expert staff.
You’ll also have the freedom to tailor your learning through optional modules, exploring cutting-edge areas such as marine pollution or biological oceanography.
A major component of your final year is your research project. Working under the supervision of an academic specialist, you’ll apply the knowledge, techniques and scientific understanding you’ve developed throughout your degree to an independent piece of research, giving you the chance to explore a topic you’re passionate about and demonstrate your capabilities as an ocean scientist.
BSc Ocean Science and Marine Conservation students scuba diving in Bali

Core modules

OS304
Marine Ecosystem Conservation 20 credits

Explore threats to global marine and coastal ecosystems, from tropical mangroves to temperate pelagic waters. You’ll investigate conservation tools, monitoring approaches and ecological impacts of human activities. By combining case studies with analytical skills, this module equips you to evaluate and support marine conservation action.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

OS307
Marine Conservation Policy and Planning 20 credits

Discover how marine governance and conservation policy are shaped and implemented. Explore how policies protect marine ecosystems and threatened species, how regulatory authorities use management tools, and how approaches like marine spatial planning support sustainable resource use. Using case studies, this module builds critical thinking, equipping you with the knowledge to effectively manage marine environments.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

PROJ302
SoBMS Project 40 credits

Undertake an independent research project from concept to completion. You’ll develop a research question, design and execute your study, analyse results and communicate your findings. This module strengthens your ability to work independently, solve problems and reflect on your academic and professional development.

75% Coursework

25% Practicals

BMSMS04
Marine Science Student Support Stage 4

Prepare for graduation and future marine science roles by refining your advanced skills during Stage 4. This module supports high-level development across fieldwork, lab techniques, data analysis and transferable skills, ensuring you are ready for professional or academic careers in marine science.

Optional modules

MBIO341
Biological Oceanography 20 credits

This module explores the large-scale biological patterns, processes and functioning of systems in key ocean and coastal ecosystems. You will examine the reciprocal interactions between large-scale biological and oceanographic processes, across spatial and temporal scales.

60% Examinations

40% Practicals

OS305
Coastal Survey 20 credits

Learn how environmental legislation, ethics and field techniques are combined in coastal surveying. You’ll practise data collection methods and apply them to real coastal settings while considering sustainability and archaeological elements. This module builds practical, analytical and evaluative skills essential for coastal science professionals.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

OS306
Coastal Geomorphology and Estuaries 20 credits

Explore how different coastal landforms develop and change over time. You’ll study geomorphological archetypes, examine how waves, tides and sediment shape coastlines, and analyse how human activities interact with natural processes. This module strengthens your ability to interpret dynamic coastal environments and understand their ecological and societal importance.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

OS312
Marine Science Field Course (UK) 20 credits

Take part in an intensive UK based field research course where you’ll plan and conduct group fieldwork on a chosen marine science theme. You’ll address challenges such as safety, weather and experimental design, and analyse real field data. This module deepens your confidence and competence in marine research practice.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

OS313
Ocean Science and Marine Conservation Field Course 20 credits

Strengthen your field skills through a focused research course that blends marine science with conservation practice. Working in small groups, you’ll plan and conduct field investigations, develop practical sampling and analytical skills and explore real conservation challenges within dynamic marine environment.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

OS314
Oceanography, Coastal Processes and Surveying Field Course 20 credits

Gain hands-on experience with oceanographic and coastal surveying techniques during this intensive field course. In a team, you’ll collect and analyse data, design field investigations and tackle practical challenges such as weather, waves, tides and environment. This module builds strong applied skills across oceanography, coastal science and marine surveying.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

MBIO339
Ecology and Conservation of Marine Vertebrates 20 credits

Investigate the ecology of large marine vertebrates and the pressures they face from a range of key threats including fisheries bycatch, whaling, and anthropogenic noise. You’ll study methods for surveying and monitoring populations and analyse real case studies that highlight current research. This module equips you to understand and address conservation challenges affecting large marine vertebrates.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

Featured module: Researching the Marine Environment

The culmination of your field-based training at the end of the second year, you will be based at the Marine Station for a month. You’ll be taught everything you need to conduct scientific surveys using industry-standard equipment on your own. In addition to learning how the equipment works, you will be trained to prepare and program it ready for data acquisition before going to sea to deploy it. You will then recover the equipment, and the data collected before processing and analysing it using scientific software – an invaluable capability when it comes to finding employment.
Not only will this experience stand you in good stead for the residential field weeks during the following semester and your research project, but it will also be an invaluable capability when it comes to finding employment after your degree.
OS206 fieldwork
 

Optional pathways

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

Develop your practical skills ready for the workplace

We are unrivalled in offering hands-on training opportunities in the field. Throughout the course, you’ll gain experience in preparing, deploying, and maintaining oceanographic instruments as well as conducting ecological field surveys across a range of coastal and subsea environments. Much of this takes place on the shore and aboard our research vessels, helping you build confidence and independence in real-world environments.

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

Philip HosegoodDr Philip Hosegood
Associate Professor in Physical Oceanography

Voyaging into the ocean's unknowns

"Being more captivated by the vastness of the oceans and their processes than the anatomical and biological study of marine life, I knew that my academic thirst would be quenched by an ocean science degree. It’s only our second week in Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ, and we’re already on the boats; we’re already in the Marine Station; we’re already having a fantastic time using all of the equipment."
BSc (Hons) Ocean Science and Marine Conservation student Jordan shares her first field-trip experience aboard the Falcon Spirit - the University's 13.65m survey vessel.

Integrate scientific diving into your degree pathway

At Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ, you’ll have the unique opportunity to gain the HSE Professional SCUBA certification alongside your degree.
The course is an intensive four week programme designed to prepare candidates for undertaking media, scientific and archaeological diving projects. 
Students with HSE SCUBA can request to dive as part of their dissertation projects where the collection of underwater data is required. 
2 divers in the sea with a flag and boat
 
 
 

Participate in our field trips

Fieldwork presents opportunities to apply your knowledge to different environments, and to consolidate your practical skills. You will get the opportunity to go on a UK or overseas field course where you will have the chance to survey a variety of marine ecosystems using industry-standard equipment and scientific research techniques including snorkelling and scientific diving.
Field course locations currently include Bali, the Bahamas, the Maldives and the Isles of Scilly. 

Going on the residential field trip was one of the highlights of my undergraduate degree. Learning how to deploy instruments and process data and running up and down the beach ... I felt like a real scientist in the field! I wouldn't hesitate to encourage students to go!

Isabel, Ocean Science student

Bahamas field trip

scuba
Beech
Bahamas
Diving
Bahamas Cave

Residential Isles of Scilly field trip

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

Maldives field trip

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

Student Helen Green took part in the Maldives residential field trip during her third-year optional module, collecting pilot data for a multi-group collaborative project.
 
 
 
 

Final-year project

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

Research-informed teaching

Throughout your course, you'll be taught by academics who are engaged in a wide range of research and also have the chance to conduct your honours project with a research active supervisor. You'll have the opportunity to be part of research projects in the latest advances in marine science.
Dr Sarah Gall Lecturer in Marine Conservation


Lecturer in Marine Conservation

Programme Lead
Dr Philip Hosegood Associate Professor in Physical Oceanography


Associate Professor in Physical Oceanography

Dr Simon Ingram Associate Professor of Marine Conservation


Associate Professor of Marine Conservation

Show all

Waterfront campus

Explore marine life in its natural habitat along the stunning and diverse Devon and Cornwall coastline, including the South Devon coast, identified as the area of highest marine biodiversity in the UK.
Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ is a hub for activity for the study of marine life. An incredible concentration of internationally-renowned marine scientists, across several international organisations in the region, provides excellent opportunities for research and volunteering.

With regards to marine science, the facilities, equipment, and fleet are without comparison anywhere in the country. Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ, with sea to the south and Dartmoor to the north, is a great place to be.

Paul Aldersley, BSc (Hons) Ocean Exploration graduate
Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ Sound on a sunny day
Exploring rocky shores on the South Devon coast
Students on the Falcon Spirit boat in Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ Sound

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 Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ Sound as part of our ‘Waterfront Campus’, the facility offers labs and classrooms extending out into the natural environment, a wet lab for sample examination and analysis, a seawater aquarium, field equipment storage and changing facilities. It is also the base for our research vessels and a centre of excellence for diving. 
 
Marine Station

Meet our 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. 
 
 
 

Enrich your studies – join a student society

If you're passionate about the ocean and the wonderful marine world we find beneath the surface, then join the . Throughout the year, we provide access to exclusive events, activities and fun; with a focus on academic talks, outdoor adventures and society socials.
f | i
Whether you’re an experienced diver or brand new to the sport, everyone is welcome to join the vibrant . We work closely with Indeep, our affiliated dive centre, to ensure we offer the best diving experiences possible. Explore local wrecks and reefs during our monthly dives, open to anyone with Advanced Open Water certification or higher (maximum depth: 30m).
f | i
Students training for HSE Professional SCUBA diving certification alongside their degree. Quarry dive.
 
 
 

Life in Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ

Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ'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

Careers

My CV looks infinitely more employable thanks to the experience I gained with the facilities at Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ. The equipment we learn to use is all in high demand by employers, and the boats we get to use it on are all of the highest standard.

Samuel, BSc (Hons) Ocean Science and Marine Conservation

BSc Ocean Science and Marine Conservation will open the door to a huge range of career opportunities. We actively engage with local government organisations, conservation organisations, industries and international professional bodies to facilitate your development of industry-aligned knowledge and skills.
A defining feature of our suite of courses is the focus on developing skills that enhance the employability of our students, and you will have an excellent grounding in physical oceanography, marine ecology, conservation science and marine policy and management. This knowledge, combined with practical experience, and exposure to research-led teaching means you will be well equipped to work throughout the oceanography and marine conservation sectors.
Our graduates progress into careers with a range of employers, including:
  • Government and Regulatory Agencies
  • Conservation organisations
  • Non-governmental organisations
  • Marine ecology, conservation and oceanographic consultancies
  • Academia
  • Marine industries including the renewable energy sector

How a clearing student is making waves in ocean science. 

Tsian Deslandes has set up an initiative to encourage more people - and greater diversity - into her subject. 
"I’ve been fortunate to have some incredible opportunities, and I want others to know they can have them too."
Tsian Deslandes working in the Confirmation and Clearing call centre
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys from the latest available data covering the three years of 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23. 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.
 

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£9,790 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£815 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,955
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,465
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

The Government has announced that tuition fees from Academic Year 28/29 onwards will be subject to automatic annual inflationary increases, which we believe will be at a similar rate to the recent annual increases to fees, and may continue to be inflation based. The University may increase annual tuition fees in line with the Student Contract and the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government from time to time.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies and we advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
More information about fees and costs of studying.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,955
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,465
 
 
 

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.
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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 Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

TOTUS student scholarship

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

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
112 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE

All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) mathematics and English at grade 4/C or above.

A levels

112 UCAS points from a minimum of two A Levels to include a grade C in a relevant science subject.
Relevant science subjects include Applied Science; Biology; Chemistry; Computer Science; Design & Technology; Electronic; Engineering; Environmental Science; Geography; Geology; Marine Science; Mathematics; Psychology; Sociology; Statistics.

BTEC National Diploma modules

BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: DMM in a relevant science subject.
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information, we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

All Access courses

Pass Access (Science) with at least 33 Level 3 credits at Merit and/or Distinction in a relevant Science subject. 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 overall to include 5 at HL in a relevant science subject   
English and Maths accepted within: Higher Level = 4 Standard Level = 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
F732
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ
 

Entry requirements

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

BSearch entry requirements for your country

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
F732
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ

Other routes to this course

The offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ 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 Âé¶¹ÆÆ½â°æ.
 
Book your place
Man sitting outside with surrounded by friends
 
 
 
The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.