Marine Biology BSc
Study of life in the oceans - exploring how marine organisms live, interact, and adapt in diverse and changing environments.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are fascinated by ocean life
Enjoy biology and environmental science
Like fieldwork and research
Want to work in conservation or marine science
Are interested in ecosystems and biodiversity
Popular Career Fields
Environmental Conservation
Research & Academia
Fisheries & Aquaculture
Government & Public Sector
Your Personality Might Be:
Ocean enthusiast
Research & Academia
Scientifically curious
Physically resilient
What is it?
What Is a Marine Biology Degree?
Marine Biology is the scientific study of ocean life, from tiny plankton to whales and coral reefs. You’ll explore how marine ecosystems function, how they’re affected by human activity, and how we can protect them for the future.
Why Study Marine Biology?
This degree is ideal if you love the ocean and want to combine scientific research with environmental action. It offers a mix of fieldwork, lab work, and data analysis - perfect for students who enjoy hands-on learning and care deeply about marine life and conservation.
Course Summary
Study of life in the oceans - exploring how marine organisms live, interact, and adapt in diverse and changing environments.
What you'll study
Most Marine Biology degrees cover:
Marine ecology and biodiversity
Oceanography and coastal environments
Marine animal and plant physiology
Evolution, genetics, and adaptation
Conservation and environmental management
Climate change and pollution impacts
Research methods and scientific diving
Later in your course, you can often specialise, for example, in marine conservation, fisheries management, coral reef ecology, or polar biology.
Degree Type
BSc (Bachelor of Science): Focuses on the scientific, practical, and analytical study of ocean life and ecosystems.
Some universities also offer MSci or MMarBiol routes with an extra research year.
Skills You'll Gain
A Marine Biology degree builds strong scientific and transferable skills, including:
Marine Species Identification – recognising marine organisms and understanding their ecology.
Field & Laboratory Techniques – conducting surveys, sampling, microscopy, and water-quality testing.
Data Analysis – interpreting ecological and environmental data using scientific methods.
Oceanography Knowledge – understanding marine ecosystems, currents, chemistry, and climate impacts.
Conservation Skills – assessing human impacts and contributing to marine protection strategies.
Explore Uni Open Days
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Marine Biology graduates work in a wide range of roles within science, conservation, and sustainability, including:
Marine and environmental research
Conservation and wildlife management
Fisheries and aquaculture
Environmental consultancy and policy
Education, outreach, and science communication
Work Experiences & Placements
Many universities offer:
Placements or sandwich years with marine research centres, conservation organisations, or aquariums.
Field courses both in the UK and abroad, providing experience in marine research and conservation work.
These experiences allow you to apply your scientific knowledge in real-world settings and gain valuable industry contacts.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent typically including Biology and a second Science (such as Chemistry, Physics, Maths, or Environmental Science).
Personal Statement Tips
Show your enthusiasm for the ocean and the natural world.
Mention field trips, volunteering, or any experience near the sea.
Reflect on how marine science can help solve global environmental challenges.
Include examples like biology coursework, diving experience, or conservation projects.
What to do Next
Compare courses to find those with strong fieldwork or research opportunities.
Attend open days or online events to explore laboratories and marine stations.
Volunteer with marine charities, beach clean-ups, or local aquariums.
Read about current marine research and conservation efforts around the world.
Wider Reading
The Sea Around Us by Rachel Carson – A beautifully written introduction to marine science.
Spying on Whales by Nick Pyenson – The story of whales and their evolution.
Ocean: The Definitive Visual Guide by Robert Dinwiddie – A stunning overview of marine life and ecosystems.
Blue Mind by Wallace J. Nichols – How the ocean affects our emotions, creativity, and wellbeing.