TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Marine Conservation

Join this course from September 2026, and turn your passion for the ocean into a career: explore, protect, and restore marine ecosystems with our hands-on BSc Marine Conservation degree.

Our typical offer

112 UCAS points

A unique marine environment

Gain extensive, real-world experience surveying diverse marine habitats, from boat-based studies in Plymouth Sound Marine Park to coastal research expeditions, with opportunities for UK and international field courses.

Maximum career impact

This course combines marine science, conservation biology, and social sciences, equipping you with a broad skill set that enhances employability. You’ll graduate ready to tackle a diverse range of marine conservation challenges.

Strong industry links and opportunities

Benefit from close ties with local conservation organisations, government agencies and ecological consultancies, ensuring real-world relevance. 

About

Marine students on boat

Are you ready to be part of the solution to the biodiversity crisis, climate change, pollution, and the destruction of our oceans? If you're excited about tackling these challenges and protecting marine ecosystems, then the BSc (Hons) Marine Conservation is for you. This course is designed to equip the next generation of marine conservation leaders with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to make a lasting impact. You'll dive into the study of ecology, conservation, and the marine and social sciences, applying them to real-world challenges and developing fieldwork expertise in cutting-edge survey techniques. Join us in shaping the future of marine species and maritime communities and become a key player in the recovery of ocean ecosystems throughout the 21st century.

Dr Thomas Davies
Dr Thomas Davies Associate Professor of Marine Conservation

This course is for you if...

you're passionate about understanding and protecting marine ecosystems
Crab
you aspire to help resolve contemporary issues in marine conservation
Ocean pollution - bottle and dead fish in sea
you're eager to engage in hands-on fieldwork and practical research
Scuba kit
you value working alongside experts involved in leading marine research
person with lines around their head, depicting experience

Details

Year 1: Dive into Marine Conservation

From day one, you'll get hands-on with real marine science – heading into the field to carry out surveys and collect data from the natural world. Back in the lab and classroom, you’ll learn how to turn that data into powerful insights, while building a solid foundation in ecology and the amazing diversity of life. As the year progresses, you’ll explore how conservation thinking has evolved over time and start to understand the big ideas behind protecting species and habitats. You’ll also gain practical skills in mapping marine spaces and using data to support better conservation decisions. Along the way, you'll explore a range of fascinating ecosystems – from coral reefs and seagrass beds to deep-sea habitats and temperate rocky shores. It's the perfect start to becoming a marine conservationist.
Biological Science students using the facilities in Davy building

Core modules

BIOL132
Ecology and the Diversity of Life

This module introduces the fundamental principles of ecology and the diversity of life. It examines patterns of life on Earth, past and present, and how an understanding of these supports efforts to conserve biodiversity and manage resources sustainably. The module also provides an overview of the domains of life on Earth, introducing the remarkable variety of organisms with which we share the planet.

CONSCI100
Introduction to Conservation Science

This module offers first-year students an introduction to conservation science through immersive field and laboratory experiences. Students will gain hands-on skills in species identification, data collection, and ecosystem analysis using contemporary tools. Emphasis will be placed on science communication, teamwork, and statistical analysis in the context of both marine and terrestrial conservation.

CONSCI101
Exploring Nature Conservation

This module explores the evolution of nature conservation thinking, from early protectionist approaches to emerging paradigms that see people and nature as interdependent. Students will examine key concepts and interventions through case studies, critically assessing their effectiveness while developing interdisciplinary insight into contemporary conservation challenges.

CONSCI102
Spatial Ecology and GIS

This module explores the evolution of nature conservation thinking, from early protectionist approaches to emerging paradigms that see people and nature as interdependent. Students will examine key concepts and interventions through case studies, critically assessing their effectiveness while developing interdisciplinary insight into contemporary conservation challenges.

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

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: Exploring the oceans and people

In your second year, you'll deepen your understanding of how marine species are conserved and how human activity shapes ocean ecosystems. You’ll explore powerful ideas like citizen science, blue health, ocean literacy, and the blue economy—while developing real-world skills in surveying public opinion and analysing social science data. A dedicated research skills module kicks off the year, introducing you to advanced methods for studying marine life and the people connected to it. You’ll even design and run your own group mini-project on a conservation question that matters to you. You can tailor your experience with specialist options like satellite remote sensing, scientific diving, or applied ecology. To top it all off, you’ll get the chance to join one of our unforgettable residential field courses – either in the UK or overseas – putting your learning into action in truly inspiring environments.
Ocean Science students diving in the Bahamas

Core 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

CONSCI200
Conservation Research Skills

This module equips students with essential skills for conducting conservation surveys in a variety of natural systems. It covers hypothesis development, experimental design, data collection and insight analysis using open source and industry standard software. Students will design, conduct, analyse and present their own field investigation. The module blends lectures, fieldwork, and online workshops.

CONSCI201
Nature and People: Understanding Socioecological Systems

Explore the dynamic interplay between people and nature through the lens of socioecological systems. This interdisciplinary module blends ecology and social science, covering nature/ocean literacy, citizen science, communication, and environmental justice. Students gain practical experience in fieldwork, survey design, and collaborative conservation problem-solving.

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

Optional modules

BIOL205
Animal Behaviour

The module addresses why animals behave in a particular way and the methodology involved in studying them. This involves understanding the causation, development, function and evolution of behaviour. We will also discuss how this knowledge might be applied in practical situations.

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

CONSCI202
Marine Conservation Field Course

This module provides students with hands-on experience in marine field research, where they conduct individual and group projects in diverse marine environments. Students develop field research, data analysis, and scientific communication skills.

OS207
Scientific Diving 20 credits

This module allows suitably qualified students (HSE SCUBA or equivalent) to develop industry and research-relevant skills in measurement and monitoring in the underwater environment using professional SCUBA and related techniques. These will then be applied in a multi-disciplinary context to the planning, execution, analysis and reporting of a field-based sampling activity.

100% Coursework

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

Take the opportunity to undertake a placement in the UK or overseas with an industry provider. Students gain unique conservation experience, from surveying sea turtle nesting sites to monitoring orca activity, or even working on innovative research projects in Plymouth's marine laboratories. The University’s dedicated placements team and list of pre-approved providers will guide you in securing the perfect placement. It’s a fantastic chance to develop hands-on skills, expand your network, and contribute to exciting marine conservation work, while exploring future career opportunities in the field.
Thalia Stinton - 3rd year Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology Student working in a lab at the Marine Station

Core modules

APIE303
Biology:Placement

This module provides an opportunity for professional training of at least 26 weeks duration with an approved company or host organisation between Stage 2 and 4. While on placement, students will gain work experience related to their degree programme, be able to apply their biological knowledge and expertise, and learn further skills and relevant techniques.

Final year: Lead your own conservation journey

In your final year, you’ll take the lead – designing and carrying out your own independent research project on a real-world marine conservation challenge. This is your chance to bring together everything you've learned to make a genuine impact. You’ll dive deep into the threats facing marine and coastal ecosystems, and explore the tools we use to manage and protect them. Alongside this, you'll gain a solid understanding of marine governance – looking at policies, agencies, and global strategies shaping the future of our oceans. You’ll also get the chance to specialise in areas that inspire you most, such as fisheries or marine mammal conservation, marine pollution, climate change impacts, animal behaviour, or the cultural connections coastal communities have with the sea. It’s your year to focus, specialise, and prepare to launch your career in marine conservation.
MRes in Marine Biology PhD student Ari Drummond

Core modules

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% 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

OS304
Marine Ecosystem Conservation 20 credits

From tropical mangroves to temperate pelagic waters, marine ecosystems around the world face a variety of threats due to human activities and resource pressure. This module will examine threats to a range of marine and coastal ecosystems and explore methods for management and conservation. We will explore methods for surveying and monitoring marine ecosystems and learn about the ecological consequences of human impacts.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

Optional modules

ANT6008MX
Coastal Cultures: Marine Anthropology in the age of climate change and mass extinction. 20 credits

Using ethnography, we analyse how coastal communities use the sea – not only as a source of livelihood, but as a key ingredient in the construction of their identity and place in world. Drawing on a range of cases from across the world – from Polynesian sorcerers, to Japanese whale mourners, to Cornish surfers – we study how coastal communities are responding to climate change, sea level rise, pollution, and extinction.

100% Coursework

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

BIOL323
Advanced Behaviour Analysis Techniques 20 credits

Learn to use a range of modern animal behaviour analysis techniques in a variety of settings, such as labs, farms, zoos etc. Cover how you identify and follow individual animals to collect social data and construct a social network, how to analyse animal movement and how we can test and train animals to assess behavioural changes - and how to communicate, to a wider audience, the importance of these techniques.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

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

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

 
 
 

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

Take part in research expeditions 

  Take the helm is an exciting initiative that combines scientific research with hands-on fieldwork to monitor and protect marine mammal populations. Conducted by students and researchers, the project focuses on surveying marine mammals in their natural habitats. By collecting valuable data on species distribution, behaviour, and environmental influences, the survey contributes to ongoing conservation efforts and helps deepen our understanding of marine ecosystems. Through this opportunity, students gain practical experience while supporting the protection of vital ocean species.
BSc Ocean Science and Marine Conservation students scuba diving in Bali BSc (Hons) Ocean Science and Marine Conservation students scuba diving in Bali

Experience overseas field work

Students studying BSc (Hons) Marine Conservation currently have the opportunity to participate in a specialist international diving residential field course (provided they are suitably qualified), an overseas snorkelling field course, or a UK residential field course. 
Previous residential field trips have taken students to Bali, where they surveyed some of the world’s best coral reefs alongside manta rays and sea turtles, and to the Bahamas, where they explored mangroves, seagrass beds, and coral reefs.

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.
 
Discover more about the Marine Station
Marine station
 
 
 

HSE Professional SCUBA diving course

Plymouth is unique in offering our students the opportunity to gain the HSE Professional SCUBA certification alongside their degree. The course is an intensive four week full-time programme designed to prepare candidates for undertaking media, scientific and archaeological diving projects. If you are looking to do any underwater work in the UK and be paid, you will require a HSE qualification.
The Professional SCUBA course is the minimum requirement if you wish to work on scientific, archaeological or media diving projects. Please note that places on the course are offered subject to availability.
Learn more about the HSE SCUBA diving course
2 divers in the sea floating at the surface wearing full face masks with a boat in the background.
 
 
 

Navigating the future of marine research

Our fleet of research vessels play a vital role in helping to advance marine science, conservation and ocean exploration. They are used for both group practical work and individual projects.
The variety of vessels support a wide range of activities, from student training and coastal surveys to ground-breaking environmental research. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, access to our boats provides hands-on experience for aspiring marine scientists. 
Explore our fleet of vessels
Falcon Spirit
 
 
 

Benefit from a multidisciplinary approach

  • Gain a strong scientific foundation in theoretical aspects of ecology, conservation and marine ecosystems complimented by analytical skills in marine ecology and spatial marine management and policy.
  • Achieve extensive experience of surveying a variety of marine habitats by boat and from the shore in and around the Plymouth Sound Marine Park.
  • Explore in depth how human activities impact marine ecosystems, and how our relationships to them can be enhanced to improve outcomes for both people and nature.
  • Gain practical experience of deploying management tools utilised by practitioners working within ecology and conservation.
  • Create strong external links with local conservation organisations, government organisations and ecological consultancies.
  • Take advantage of the opportunity to participate in UK and overseas field courses, and specialist research expeditions.
  • Participate in an optional HSE professional diving course and an optional dedicated scientific diving module.
 
 
 

Learn from experts

Leverage our industry experience and learn from academics who are leaders in their field, preparing and equipping you for a high-impact conservation career.
Dr Thomas Davies Associate Professor of Marine Conservation


Associate Professor of Marine Conservation

Dr Tom LETESSIER Lecturer in Marine Conservation


Lecturer in Marine Conservation

Dr Sarah Gall Lecturer in Marine Conservation


Lecturer in Marine Conservation

Show all
 
 
 

Marine Biology Society

We are involved in anything and everything marine biology or ocean science. All of our committee, and members, are passionate about the ocean and the wonderful marine world we find beneath the surface. 
Throughout the year, with your membership, you will have access to the exclusive events, activities and fun which the MBS offers. We will be focusing on providing academic talks, outdoor adventures and many other activities throughout the year with many society socials to look forward to.
Marine biology students on a field trip in Portugal
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Careers

Marine Conservation is a growing job sector with high demand for versatile skillsets

BSc (Hons) Marine Conservation will complement the hard skills in Marine Science with the addition of skills in Biological Conservation and the Social Sciences and Humanities, enhancing your employment potential after graduation. Current employment growth in the sector is being driven by climate change and environmental concerns, government and international policies, expansion of the blue economy, and advancements in Marine Science and Technology. A huge range of career pathways are open to Marine Conservation graduates including:
Scuba diver underwater with a mountain in the background.
Offshore renewable energy COP27
Dr Benjamin Ciotti explores the dynamic environment of surf zone ecosystems and the research investigating the role of sandy beaches as habitats for fishes.

Optional placement year: preparing you for the future

An optional six- to twelve-month placement provides a valuable complement to your programme and is an opportunity for you to widen your employment experience and consolidate the first two stages of study. Whether you work with conservation organisations, consultancies, research institutions or a company of your choice, you can take the opportunity to gain valuable experience and learn new skills to prepare you for the final stage of your degree and employment after graduation.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

On Monday 20 October 2025, the UK Government announced its intention to increase tuition fees for home undergraduate students in line with inflation from 2026 onwards.
Along with other universities in the UK, the University of Plymouth intends to apply this new fee. Whilst the exact details have not currently been announced, it is expected that the increase will be in the region of £400, increasing the annual tuition fee to £9,935 for 2026, which will then be subject to automatic inflationary increases thereafter. However, implementation of this increase will be subject to further Government guidance and legislation. 
The University will give further details to both prospective and current students as soon as the Government has issued further information. 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
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 

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.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.

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
 
 

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

A levels

112 points including a minimum of 2 A Levels, to include Grade C in a relevant Science subject: Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Environmental Technology, Geography, Geology, Marine Science, Mathematics, Physics, Sociology, Statistics. 
For candidates that do not have a second science subject at A level, please contact: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk

BTEC National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma

DDM 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.

International Baccalaureate

30 diploma points overall, to include 5 diploma points in Biology (Higher Level) plus 5 diploma points in second science at Higher Level. English and Mathematics must be included. If overseas and not studying English within IB, must have IELTS 6.0 overall with 5.5 in all other elements.

Foundation programme

Open to students progressing from all School of Biological and Marine Sciences foundation programmes passing FYM003 & FYM005 at 50% or higher and passing FYM001 & FYM006 at 40% or higher.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 
We understand that many applicants remain anxious about meeting the exact terms of our standard conditional offers. We will look again at your application and revise our offer for those applicants who we continue to believe are a good match to our courses, once we have the certainty of your actual results in August.

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
FC71
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
Plymouth
 

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.
 
UCAS course code
FC71
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
Plymouth
 
 
 

Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
 
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.