BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography Bachelor's degree at the University of Plymouth

Explore the molecular and genetic features that allow cells to function. You'll investigate cell biology in the context of plant and animal development and learn how cells process complex information to give biological outcomes which have implications at the cellular, tissue and whole organism levels. This module provides a vital grounding in cell biology and development.

Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Examinations

Immerse yourself in marine biology and learn to think and work like a scientist. Through hands-on taxonomy practicals, statistics workshops and career sessions, you'll build skills in data analysis, communication and marine diversity. The highlight is a non-residential field course in Devon and Cornwall where in small groups you design a study, collect and analyse data, and present findings in one intensive week!

Assessment: 75% Coursework 25% Tests

Explore the evolutionary principles that shape species and their behaviour. You'll examine genetic inheritance, population genetics, adaptation, fitness, speciation, and the fossil record using key examples and practical classes to deepen understanding. Historical developments in evolutionary thought provide context for modern interpretations, helping you approach biology through the lens of evolutionary adaptation.

Assessment: 50% Examinations 50% Tests

Investigate what biodiversity is, where it occurs and why it matters. You'll study global patterns of diversity, the biology of key taxa and the threats facing ecosystems today. Through this module, you'll develop a strong understanding of how biodiversity is valued, assessed and conserved, while exploring the ecological principles that underpin these efforts.

Assessment: 50% Practicals 50% Examinations

Receive structured support in developing foundational skills essential for marine biology. This module complements your Level 4 studies by tracking your progress in laboratory techniques, fieldwork, data handling and transferable skills, ensuring you establish a strong base for future marine science learning.

This module introduces the science that shapes our oceans, exploring the physical and chemical processes that drive ocean circulation and mixing, and influence the character of marine environments worldwide. Key scientific principles are introduced along the way, helping students build a strong foundation for further study in ocean and marine sciences.

This module introduces students to the dynamic world of marine biology, exploring marine ecosystems, marine organisms and key research areas. Through hands on fieldwork and laboratory sessions, students build practical research skills while developing confidence in effective scientific writing and communication.

Join a residential field course aboard research vessels to study offshore marine ecosystems. You'll sample a variety of habitats, analyse biological and physico-chemical parameters and explore how these factors interact to shape marine communities. This module provides practical experience in oceanographic field methods and interdisciplinary marine research.

Assessment: 60% Coursework 40% Tests

Explore the fundamental biology of marine organisms, focusing on diversity of form and function in key groups. Develop an understanding of the evolution and anatomy of organisms across the marine tree of life including marine vertebrates, invertebrates and algae. Build an understanding of marine biodiversity and how morphological and physiological traits allow organisms to inhabit a range of marine environments.

Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Examinations

Examine the oceanographic processes that structure the global ocean and how they're impacted by climate change. You'll study how changes in currents and water properties at different scales affect marine organisms, food webs and biogeochemical cycling. This module develops a deep understanding of the physical, biological and chemical drivers of ocean function.

Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Examinations

Develop core practical skills needed for field studies in marine biology, coastal ecology and oceanography. You'll learn data-collection techniques, experimental design principles, and methods for analysing and communicating scientific information. Through hands-on practice, this module prepares you for more advanced fieldwork and research across marine and coastal systems.

Assessment: 100% Coursework

Enhance your competence in field, lab and analytical skills across your Level 5 studies. This module ensures continued skill development through timetabled activities and structured tracking, helping you prepare confidently for advanced marine biology modules and independent research at higher levels.

Study the ecology of shallow water environments, some of the most diverse and productive habitats on Earth. You'll explore the organisms living within them, the environmental factors shaping these systems and the methods used to analyse ecological data. This module strengthens your ability to evaluate and communicate ecological findings in marine science.

Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Examinations

Discover how molecular techniques revolutionise our understanding of marine organisms and ecosystems. You'll build foundational knowledge of molecular concepts and methods, learning how researchers study genetic, physiological and ecological processes in the marine environment. This module provides essential preparation for advanced work in marine molecular science.

Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Examinations

Study how waves and tides form, interact with coastlines and drive sediment movement. You'll examine coastal processes such as erosion and accretion and learn to apply physical principles to real coastal settings. This module provides a strong foundation for understanding and predicting coastal change in a dynamic environment.

Assessment: 100% Coursework

Enhance your research capabilities through professional level scientific diving. Suitable for students with the HSE SCUBA qualification, this module trains you in underwater photography, surveying and sampling techniques. You'll plan and execute multidisciplinary dive projects, developing skills used in research, industry and environmental monitoring.

Assessment: 100% Coursework

Build a strong understanding of ecological principles at the levels of individuals, populations and communities. You'll explore how ecological processes operate and species interact in both aquatic and terrestrial systems, and examine how scientists search for general theories in ecology. This module provides a solid conceptual framework for advanced ecological analysis and problem-solving.

Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Examinations

What drives our weather and shapes our climate? Dive into the physics of the atmosphere, from thermodynamics to global circulation. You will analyse real meteorological and satellite data to understand weather systems and forecasting. By mastering these physical principles, you will uncover the scientific evidence behind climate variability and the critical role of meteorology in a sustainable future.

Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Remotely delivered assessments

Learn how remote sensing technologies, from satellites to drones, are used to study terrestrial and marine environments. You'll develop skills in analysing and applying remote sensing data using industry standard software and explore how these tools help solve real world environmental challenges.

Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Tests

Spend up to 48 weeks gaining real-world experience in a professional marine biology setting. This extended placement allows you to apply knowledge gained in your first two years, build workplace skills and prepare for your final stage of study. It provides valuable insight into career pathways and industry expectations in marine biology.

This module explores the large-scale biological patterns, processes and functioning of systems in key ocean and coastal ecosystems. You will examine the reciprocal interactions between large-scale biological and oceanographic processes, across spatial and temporal scales.

Assessment: 60% Examinations 40% Practicals

Undertake an independent research project from concept to completion. You'll develop a research question, design and execute your study, analyse results and communicate your findings. This module strengthens your ability to work independently, solve problems and reflect on your academic and professional development.

Assessment: 75% Coursework 25% Practicals

Consolidate and refine your advanced marine biology skills as you complete your degree. This module supports your progression through Level 6, helping you strengthen professional, analytical and research competencies and ensuring you graduate with a strong, workplace-ready skillset.

Examine how pollutants affect aquatic organisms and ecosystems. You'll study key concepts, analytical techniques and evaluation methods used to assess contaminant impacts. Through applied examples, you'll learn how ecotoxicolo