Bachelor's Degree in Biology and Marine Biology
University of Southampton
Program description
Bachelor's Degree in Biology and Marine Biology
On this biology and marine biology degree, you'll learn about the living world from the molecular level to entire ecosystems. Study through lectures, laboratory work, and fieldwork in the UK and abroad. You'll be prepared for a career in research, conservation, inshore fisheries or habitat management.
This course will give you knowledge and understanding of living organisms at several levels - from the molecular, through cells and whole organisms and ecosystems. You'll also gain an understanding of biology from an evolutionary perspective. Be part of one of the largest marine science communities in Europe, the National Oceanography Centre Southampton (NOCS). Our research feeds directly into what you'll learn on our biology and marine biology courses. Our research vessels are a short walk from the lecture theatres, and boat-based fieldwork is an important part of the programme.
You can:
- take part in a fieldwork programme including residential trips at home and abroad
- do independent research project, working with research staff, to prepare for a career in research or a specialised master's
- take modules such as business biosciences, which looks at drug discovery, clinical trials and drug product sales
- learn sought-after skills including team working, time management, planning, data collection, analysis
Our biology and marine biology degree is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST).
Admission requirements
A-levels
ABB including Biology and one other preferred subject
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 32 points overall with 16 points at Higher Level, including 5 at Higher Level Biology and one further Higher Level in a preferred subject
BTEC
- D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus AB in A Level Biology and one preferred subject.
- We do not accept the BTEC Diploma/BTEC Extended Diploma without two AB grades in A Level Biology and one preferred subject.
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English Language (or GCSE English), Mathematics and Science (minimum grade C/4).
International Students
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English.
For more information about admission requirements, please visit the university website.
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Learn moreProgram content
Year 1
Earth and Ocean System
Fundamentals of Biochemistry
Key Skills for Marine Scientists
Marine Invertebrates
Origins of Biodiversity
Statistical Computing for Marine Sciences
Year 2
- Coastal Ecology Field Course
- Evolution
- Phytoplankton and Primary Production
You must also choose from the following modules in year 2:
- Animal Behaviour
- Bioinformatics
- Environmental Microbiology
- Flow of Genetic Information
- Marine Benthic Ecology
- Marine Vertebrates
- Palaeobiology
- Plant Development and Function
- Pure and Applied Population Ecology
- Quantitative Methods in Biological and Environmental Science
- Zooplankton Ecology and Processes (L5)
Year 3
- Shallow Water Survey Techniques
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
- Applied Plant Biology
- Behavioural Ecology
- Biodiversity and Conservation
- Biofilms and Microbial Communities
- Bioinformatics and Systems Biology
- Bioscience Business
- Bioscience Education
- Current Topics in Cell and Developmental Biology
- Deep Sea Ecology L6
- Evolution and Development
- Evolution and Genetics
- Field Research Project
- Global Challenges in Biology
- In-Silico Research Project
- Independent Research Project (Oceanography, Marine Biology)
- Laboratory Research Project
- Marine Conservation and Policy
- Marine Fisheries Ecology
- Marine Microbial Ecology and Biotechnology
- Molecular Recognition
- Plant Cell Biology
- Sediments: Modern and Ancient
- Understanding Coral Reefs
- Zooplankton Ecology and Processes
Scholarships & funding
Several scholarship options are available. Please visit the university website for more information.
Tuition fees
- UK, Channel Island, Isle of Man and Irish students: £9,250 per year.
- EU and international students: £22,760 per year.
Qualification
- Final award: Bachelor of Science with Honours (BSc (Hons))
- Name of award: BSc Biology and Marine Biology
- Interim Exit awards:
- Bachelor of Science (Ordinary)
- Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE)
- Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE)
- FHEQ level of final award: Level 6
Continuing studies
Our marine biology graduates often continue their studies to postgraduate taught level, or pursue marine biology PhD opportunities.
Career opportunities
Roles our marine biology graduates have gone into include:
- marine scientist
- oceanographer
- conservation officer
- geologist
- fisheries officer
- oil spill consultant
- marine science officer
Contact school
About this institute

University of Southampton
The University of Southampton is a top 100 global University with a top 15 UK University place. We are a founding member of the prestigious Russell Group, as demonstrated by our research intensity. We have a wonderful global community, with...
Why study at University of Southampton
The University of Southampton is a welcoming and close knit student community of roughly 22,000 students. We have an international student population which makes up just under 30% of our student body which is wonderful. With 98% of our graduates going into work or further study 6 months after graduation, we offer the chance to study at a world leading Russell Group University whilst safe in the knowledge you will be well on your way to succeeding your chosen career.
Contact info
University of Southampton
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