TEF Gold

School of Biological and Marine Sciences

BSc (Hons) Ocean Science and Marine Conservation

UCAS tariff 112 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 F732
Institution code P60
Duration

3 years

(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location Plymouth
Register for open day

Do you have a passion to understand and protect life in our seas? This course offers an integrated approach to understanding the oceanographic processes that support life in our oceans, how marine ecosystems function and how marine activities can be managed sustainably. You’ll learn about the policy structures designed to protect marine ecosystems and our oceans, and be primed with the skills and enthusiasm to confidently start a job in marine conservation management and scientific research.

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Key features
  • Ranked top 15 in the UK and top 100 globally for Earth and Marine Sciences in the . 
  • Gain specialist skills including ecological survey methods and quantitative data analysis, and qualitative skills related to stakeholder data collection such as structured interviews and questionnaires. 
  • Prepare for careers in marine conservation and other marine industries such as environmental consultancy and the marine energy sector.
  • Draw on expert staff involved in internationally-leading research including managing protected populations and marine protected areas (MPAs), marine and coastal governance, marine ecosystem services and economics, and society and the sea. 
  • 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.
  • Option to take the industry-recognised professional diving qualification (HSE Professional SCUBA) alongside your degree and an optional dedicated 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 is aimed at integrating ocean science and marine conservation knowledge and understanding 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 worlds 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

  • Your second year introduces specialist marine conservation concepts and continues to build knowledge and understanding of a broad range of topics in ocean science. The core marine conservation modules develop an understanding of the range of impacts human activities have on marine ecosystems. You’ll have the opportunity to develop your interests through a choice of option modules covering areas such as coastal oceanography, scientific diving and more advanced hydrographic survey and mapping methods.

    Core modules

    OS201
    Global Ocean Processes 20 credits

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

    60% Practicals

    40% 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

    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

    OS204
    Waves, Tides and Coastal Dynamics 20 credits

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

    50% Coursework

    50% Tests

    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

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

    100% Coursework

    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

  • 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 develop your scientific skills with the opportunity to participate in a residential field course. A large part of your final year will be spent on an independent research project with guidance from an academic advisor. Taught modules will complete your advanced understanding of marine ecosystem conservation and marine conservation policy and management. You’ll have the opportunity to develop your specific interests, for example in marine pollution or biological oceanography, through an option module. 

    Core modules

    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

    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

    Optional modules

    MBIO341
    Biological Oceanography 20 credits

    This module provides a study of the key physical, ecological and organismal processes in the marine environment and introduces a range of biological studies in applied marine science.

    60% Examinations

    40% Practicals

    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

    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

    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

    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

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

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 UCAS 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
2025-2026 2026-2027 *
Home £9,535 £9,535
International £18,650 £19,200
Part time (Home) £795 £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.


Tuition fee price changes

In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about fees and costs of studying.

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 undergraduate students completing any part of their placement year in the UK in 2025/2026 is £1,905.
The fee for undergraduate students completing their whole placement year outside the UK in 2025/2026 is £1,430.
Details of the 2026/2027 fees will be provided once confirmed.
 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 .
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 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

HSE Professional SCUBA diving course

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

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

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 Plymouth, 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.

 
TOTUS student scholarship

With thanks to TOTUS Engineering, we are able to provide one scholarship a year to a student who is intending to study one of our undergraduate Biological Science, Marine Biology or Ocean Science degrees and fulfils at least one of the required criteria.
The recipient will receive £500 per year for the three years of their undergraduate course (excluding placement year) to help with their studies.

People

Meet our school technical staff    

Our technical staff are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories, workshops, and the field. 

Falcon Spirit
Ocean science and marine conservation field work

All stages of the course include practical components to help you develop essential skills and analysis techniques through fieldwork, data-handling activities and use of specialist software packages.
Marine science newsletter front cover issue 10: marine science students preparing to measure surf zone currents and waves at Sunday’s River beach in South Africa.
Marine science newsletters

Browse and download every copy of our quarterly marine science newsletter.

"I am studying on the BSc (Hons) Ocean Science and Marine Conservation degree. This video describes my passion for the oceans and my motivation for studying marine conservation at the University of Plymouth!"
Daniel Kelsey-Wilkinson
Daniel Kelsey-Wilkinson – BSc (Hons) Ocean Science graduate

"I found the facilities and services at the University of Plymouth essential to my success whilst studying."
Paul Aldersley
Paul Aldersley – BSc (Hons) Ocean Exploration graduate

"The University is large, well-resourced, and a pleasant place to study. With regards to marine science, the facilities, equipment, and fleet are without comparison anywhere in the country."
*These are the latest results from the National Student Survey. Please note that the data published on is updated annually in September.