
Program description
Bachelor's Degree in Marine Biology
You'll study biology and ecology within the specific context of marine systems. The course will broaden your knowledge of biological sciences, chemistry, physics and maths.
The facilities are exceptional at Southampton. You can go from classroom or lab to our research vessels within minutes on our Waterfront Campus.
You'll be part of one of the largest marine science communities in Europe, the National Oceanography Centre Southampton (NOCS). With this course, you can:
- learn the most up-to-date marine science knowledge
- get the opportunity to conduct supervised, original research
- find out about the ecology of marine organisms, including feeding, reproduction, behaviour and migrations
- get extensive practical laboratory skills training at all levels
- take part in relevant field experience and training throughout the programme
- choose from a variety of semester abroad study opportunities
This degree is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST).
Admission requirements
A-levels
ABB including Biology (minimum grade B) and one further science subject (minimum grade B)
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 science subject
BTEC
- D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus AB in A Level Biology and one further science subject.
- We do not accept the BTEC Diploma/BTEC Extended Diploma without two AB grades in A Level Biology and one further science 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
- Introduction to Functional Marine Biology
- Introduction to Marine Ecology and Evolution
- Introduction to Ocean Biogeochemistry
- Key Skills for Marine Scientists
- Marine Invertebrates
- Physics of the Ocean
- Statistical Computing for Marine Sciences
Year 2
- Coastal Ecology Field Course
- Coastal Ocean Processes
- Marine Benthic Ecology
- Marine Vertebrates
- Molecular Tools for Advancing Marine Biology Research
- Monitoring Coastal and Estuarine Environments
- Phytoplankton and Primary Production
- Zooplankton Ecology and Processes (L5)
Year 3
- Applied Oceanography and Fieldwork
- Independent Research Project (Oceanography, Marine Biology)
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
- Biogeography
- Deep Sea Ecology L6
- Global Challenges in Biology
- Marine Conservation and Policy
- Marine Fisheries Ecology
- Marine Microbial Ecology and Biotechnology
- 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 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 degree or PhD level. They also embark on careers at universities or consultancies, or with employers such as NERC (Natural Environment Research Council), CEFAS (Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science), Natural England or the Environment Agency.
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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