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MSci (Hons)

Marine Biology

Join a renowned marine biology degree and advance your research skills with access to some of Europe’s best marine facilities and a stunning coastline. Experience hands-on marine biology at its best, both in cutting-edge labs and out in the field.

Our typical offer

128 UCAS points

Learn from the best

We're at the forefront of knowledge in how marine ecosystems work, how organisms function, evolve, behave and interact. This fundamental knowledge also translates into management and conservation.

From the laboratory to field

Developing rigorous scientists through practical experience in core research skills and cutting-edge techniques and analyses.

Facing global challenges 

We'll prepare you to find the answers to fundamental questions and solutions for the challenges associated with climate change, habitat loss, pollution and sustainable food production. 
MSci (Hons) Marine Biology
About Details Experience Careers Fees and funding Apply Register for open day

About

Marine Biology students working on a boat on a fieldtrip to Sweden

Our city's seafront location hosts one of the highest concentrations of marine scientists in Europe with links to internationally renowned research institutions, so you won't just be studying a degree in Marine Biology, you'll be joining a hub of activity for the study of marine life.

Professor Richard Thompson OBE FRS
Professor Richard Thompson OBE FRS Richard is a world-leading marine scientist and is at the forefront of pioneering research into the causes and effects of marine litter.
 
 
 

What is an integrated masters programme?

Our integrated masters programmes are undergraduate programmes that contain an extra year of study at postgraduate level. Combining undergraduate and postgraduate study into a single continuous programme.
An integrated masters degree allows you to gain a broad knowledge base from your undergraduate studies and then progress to more advanced or specialised work at postgraduate level.
 
  • To stand out from the crowd.
  • You're interested in enhancing your research journey.
  • To improve your future career direction.
  • To fast track your career.
  • To advance your subject or clinical knowledge.
  • You're interested in developing leadership, managerial and research skills.
 
 

This course is for you if...

you're passionate about exploring marine life, from coastal margins to the deep sea
Planet earth with arrows around
you seek hands-on experience in both laboratory and field settings
Hand holding molecular structure
you are passionate about understanding and finding solutions to the challenges facing marine ecosystems
Ocean pollution - bottle and dead fish in sea
you want to develop the practical, intellectual and scientific skills to become a practising research marine biologist
Ticklist depicting goal setting for graduates

Details

Years 1-3 (plus an optional placement year)

You will follow one of our three Marine Biology BSc programmes, choosing relevant optional modules and conducting a research project. On the MSci, this will typically be on the same topic as your project in your masters year, allowing you to really explore something in depth.
Marine Biology students in the Davy Labs

Optional placement year

Between your second and third year, you’ll have the opportunity to do a work placement, for a six or 12-month period.
As well as providing valuable hands-on experience outside of the classroom, a placement can prove to be a great networking opportunity and provide a deeper, working level understanding of the career paths that are available following your degree.
Marine Biology student on an experimental field course to the Algarve, Portugal.

Final year

The final year is research-intensive and includes four specialist modules: a year-long 60-credit research project, a 20-credit research skills module and two bespoke 20-credit modules exploring contemporary issues in both pure and applied marine biology research. These modules are designed to enhance research competence and provide you with cutting-edge knowledge and transferable skills relevant to research careers and other high-level graduate employment options. You will be fully integrated into research groups within the School of Biological and Marine Sciences, allowing you to be part of our dynamic research culture, and receive close academic supervision throughout.
Marine Biology student in the Davy Labs

Other marine biology courses

We offer a suite of marine biology degrees that vary in focus, giving you the opportunity to tailor your degree to your passions.
All three courses share a common first year and we allow you the flexibility to transfer onto one of the other specialist BSc courses up until the end of Year 1.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology
Includes marine biology, ecotoxicology and conservation physiology modules. Fieldtrips have included the UK and Portugal.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology
Includes specialist modules in marine ecology, conservation and applied aquatics. Fieldtrips have included the UK and South Africa.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography
Includes specialist ocean processes, and waves tides and coastal dynamics modules. Fieldtrips have included the UK and Sweden.

Experience

At the beginning of their second year, Marine Biology students go on an experimental field course to Portugal
BSc (Hons) Ocean Science and Marine Conservation students on an international diving trip to Bali
Marine students on a research expedition

Benefit from fieldwork, near and far

At Plymouth, you’ll go beyond the classroom, applying theory to real-world research through local and international field trips.
From the diverse coastline of the South West to global destinations, you'll explore marine ecosystems firsthand, gaining invaluable experience that enhances both your degree and career prospects.
Previous students have studied rocky shores, seagrass meadows, and estuaries along the UK’s coast, as well as tropical and temperate marine environments further afield.
Fieldwork gives you an end-to-end experience of conducting a scientific study from developing hypotheses, designing experiments, collecting data, analysing results and communicating findings through to scientific reports. The skills you gain from fieldwork are highly sought after by employers and can include:
  • data and sample collection and analysis in varied marine habitats
  • experience using scientific equipment and technology, from sonar mapping to ROVs
  • scientific writing and reporting, preparing you for careers in research and conservation
  • teamwork in challenging and dynamic field conditions
  • problem-solving in real-world ecological research
  • communicating project work and ideas through oral presentations.
 
 
Marine biology students on an experimental field course in the Algarve, Portugal

My favourite memory of Plymouth is probably the field trip to Portugal...the group research projects were great and it’s amazing how much you can learn in a week.

Tom, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology graduate

 
 
 

Facilities to support your learning

We have a selection of cutting edge facilities to enhance your experience and provide the best learning environment
Situated on the shores of Plymouth Sound as part of our waterfront campus, the Marine Station offers labs and classrooms extending out into the natural environment. It is also the base for our research vessels and a centre of excellence for diving.
Marine Station

Marine Station
Marine Station
Waterfront labs and classrooms at the Marine Station
Falcon Spirit
Our fleet of boats
Practical sessions, individual project work and research all benefit from our fleet of research vessels.
Marine Station wet lab
Specialist labs
Wet laboratory for sample examination and analysis.
5G interactive microscope laboratory
5G interactive microscope laboratory
Access the latest microscope technology.
LABplus facility 
LABplus
Study, practical work and lab skills support at LABplus.
Brixham Laboratory
Brixham Laboratory
A cutting-edge research hub driving innovation in marine, environmental, and biomedical sciences.

One of the main reasons I came to study at Plymouth was the facilities and the fact that I could use them and that they weren’t reserved for research and external bookings. It was great being able to use equipment that I would be using out in the field – it really helped me to develop a deeper understanding of the field.

Luke, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology graduate
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology graduate Luke Plummer working on a fish farm.
 
 

Expand your horizons with a research expedition

Research expeditions offer the chance to assist our expert researchers in the field, both locally and internationally.
Unlike course-based field trips, these expeditions span diverse disciplines, allowing students to choose a project that aligns with their interests while gaining hands-on research experience and valuable skills.
Previously students have ...
  • taken part in cetacean surveys aboard the University yacht, Take The Helm, between Plymouth and the Isles of Scilly
  • carried out assessments of south-west UK fish nurseries, catching, identifying and measuring juvenile fish in a number of key estuary sites
  • spent two weeks on a field course in North Sulawesi (Bunaken and Bangka islands) where they learned about the biodiversity of coral reefs and how to monitor them
  • enjoyed a week in the Azores, collecting data to assess the relative abundance of different colour forms of Clouded Yellow butterflies.

I felt very fortunate to have the opportunity to be taught about coral reefs by experts while directly observing the reef. I don't think many learning experiences can top that.

Marine science students on a research expedition netting fish.
Fish netting in the UK.
Marine biology students snorkelling in indonesia.
Diving in Indonesia.
Marine science students on a research expedition to teh Azores
Research expedition to the Azores.
 

Gain a professional diving qualification alongside your studies

Study at the only University in the UK offering you the opportunity to gain the HSE Professional SCUBA certification alongside your degree.
Explore and monitor underwater ecosystems as you learn to conduct underwater surveys, assess marine biodiversity, and gain industry-recognised diving qualifications to enhance your career prospects.
The course is an intensive four week full-time programme. Practical tasks are undertaken by all candidates, day and night, including preparation of project plans and risk assessments. Please note that places on the course are offered subject to availability and there are some costs to incur.
HSE SCUBA Diving Course
a
 
 
 
 

Keep up to date 

Follow us to get a greater insight into what you might experience on a marine biology degree at Plymouth.
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Marine Biology students in the Davy Labs
 
 
 

Learn from experts

Our links with world renowned research institutions strengthen our community and research opportunities. 
We have strong links with institutions including:

The good thing about the University’s location is that Plymouth is home to a number of marine organisations (the Marine Biological Association, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Shark Trust, etc.), which provide countless opportunities for volunteering, collaborations and networking. For me, two separate bouts of volunteering at the MBA led to further research positions overseas through connections and referrals.

Grace, recent graduate.
Dr Benjamin Ciotti Associate Professor of Marine Biology


Associate Professor of Marine Biology

Dr Manuela Truebano Associate Professor in Marine Ecophysiology


Associate Professor in Marine Ecophysiology

Dr Miriam Reverter Lecturer in Marine Biology


Lecturer in Marine Biology

Show all
 
 
 

Enrich your studies – join the Marine Biology Society (MBS)

The University of Plymouth Marine Biology Society (MBS) are involved in anything and everything Marine Biology or Ocean Science. The committee, and members, are passionate about our oceans 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, including; socials, academic talks from many internal and external speakers, documentary and film screenings, rock pooling sessions, photography competitions, trips, placement opportunity talks ... and much, much more.
Marine Biology Society logo
 
 
 

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

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city

Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Accommodation halls internal
Explore your accommodation options

Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls

Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

Rory Moore - Hero

Plymouth makes you more passionate about the ocean and studying here kept me on the right path. I wanted to be by the ocean, I wanted to dive, I wanted to surf and I wanted to study with the best marine biologists in the country. Plymouth was fantastic for me and I will always love it.

Rory Moore, Head of Conservation at the

 
 
As a marine biology graduate your career options are as expansive as the oceans you study. Whether you want to become a research scientist or work in the field of conservation, we’ll assist you throughout your degree to ensure that by the time you graduate you’ll be en-route to the career of your choice.
This is a competitive but fascinating and dynamic field and our graduates can be found all over the world ...
  • In research institutions
  • Working with charities and NGOs
  • Monitoring the environment and fisheries
  • Working on the filming and / or production of nature documentaries
  • Promoting important marine conservation messages
  • Providing commercial environmental or ecological consultancy services
  • Influencing government policies through research and campaigning
  • Inspiring and educating the scientists and conservationists of tomorrow
  • Communicating science through scientific journalism
  • H

    94% of graduates in work or further study

  • ?

    84% said their degree was a formal requirement for their job or gave them an advantage

*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. 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.
 

The benefits of completing a placement

My placement experience has played a big part in how I envisage my future career. It has given me a point of reference that I can use to gain perspective every time I feel overwhelmed by stressful situations – a final goal that can drive my life. Without this placement opportunity, I don't think I would be as motivated as I am to pursue a career in marine research.

Francisco worked as a Research Intern at the Instituto de Investigacións Mariñas, Spain.
While we can equip you with as much hands-on experience and opportunity to put theory into practice as possible, a placement can provide you with that little bit extra to make you stand out from the crowd. 
Our students have taken part in placements all over the world; they have helped to further research, worked on specialist projects, protected fragile marine environments and developed HSE diving skills. Some have used the experience to help them decide on a career path and many been offered graduate employment with their placement organisations. 
Where will your work placement take you...?
Ana water sampling in Moorea

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
 2026-2027.
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 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
N/A per year
Optional placement year  completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year  completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 
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
To be confirmed
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
To be confirmed
 

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.
 

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.
 
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Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
128 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
128 points, including a minimum of 3 A levels - including a grade B or above in Biology. 

Other qualifications
For candidates following other pathways, please contact: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

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
C162
Institution code
P60
Duration

4 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
    128 UCAS points
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

    5

    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.
     
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    C162
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    4 years
    (+ optional placement)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Plymouth
     
     
     

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