BSc (Hons) Marine Biology 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.

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

Explore how marine animals function within ecological and evolutionary contexts. You'll study physiological processes, environmental responses and the adaptations that allow species to thrive in diverse marine environments. This module blends conceptual understanding with applied examples to strengthen your grasp of how physiology shapes ecological interactions.

Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Examinations

Gain hands-on experience conducting scientific research during a residential overseas field course. You'll learn to describe organisms and habitats accurately, design experiments, collect and analyse data, and present scientific results. This intensive module builds confidence in field and laboratory techniques essential for advanced marine biological research.

Assessment: 70% Coursework 30% 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

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.

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

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

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

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.

Explore current advances in marine biology through an explicitly evolutionary lens. You'll critically evaluate primary literature while exploring how evolutionary processes shape marine organisms, communities and ecosystems. This module deepens your ability to interpret scientific research and appreciate the evolutionary and indeed societal context driving modern marine biology.

Assessment: 70% Examinations 30% Coursework

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 ecotoxicology supports environmental protection and informs policies aimed at safeguarding water quality and ecosystem health in a changing world.

Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Examinations

Explore the rich microbial diversity of aquatic ecosystems. You'll study microbial roles in freshwater, marine and hypersaline environments and examine the methods used to investigate them. By connecting current research with hands-on understanding, this module prepares you to analyse microbial communities and their ecological significance.

Assessment: 50% Practicals 50% Examinations

Explore the theories behind key models in behavioural ecology, including optimal foraging, game theory and habitat selection. Using empirical studies, you'll evaluate how animals make decisions and how behaviour evolves. This module provides a deeper understanding of how behaviour shapes ecological outcomes.

Assessment: 50% Coursework 50% Examinations

Examine how species form, diversify and evolve. You'll investigate species concepts, mechanisms of speciation and the evolutionary processes driving biological diversity. The module also explores how diversity has changed through evolutionary time, giving you a comprehensive foundation in evo