About Marine Biology, BSc (Hons) - at University of Portsmouth

Overview

Marine biologists are the first line of defence for our blue planet, and are crucial to enhance the ecology and environment of our oceans.

This BSc (Hons) Marine Biology degree, accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB), will give you the skills you need to play your part.

With conservation projects and world class facilities on our doorstep, Portsmouth is the perfect place to begin a career as a marine scientist.

Course highlights

• Work on active conservation projects – such as the Solent Oyster Restoration Project, the Solent BioHut project, the Isle of Wight UNESCO Marine Biosphere, and the Solent Seagrass Restoration Project – to gain first-hand experience of marine conservation
• Access the Solent European Marine Site with its wide range of environments through the Institute of Marine Sciences, our internationally renowned shoreside marine station
• Have the chance to go on a marine field trip abroad, where you can explore exotic, unique and diverse ecosystems
• Build experience on a one-year work placement, study abroad at one of our partner universities, and learn powerboating with the Royal Yacht Association (RYA) or PADI-certified scientific and technical diving

Accredited by:

This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

Careers and opportunities

Marine biology is the study of the organisms, plants and animals that make up the world's saltwater ecosystems. It's a vital area of science when it comes to protecting our oceans and seas - marine biologists aim to better understand marine environments and to investigate the factors that alter marine ecosystems, both natural and man-made.

On this BSc (Hons) Marine Biology degree, you'll learn about a wide array of marine organisms, from phytoplankton to cetaceans, and how to protect the oceans and their delicate ecosystems against the growing threats of climate change, habitat destruction and resource exploitation.

You’ll conduct fieldwork in a range of intertidal habitats, including rocky shores, estuaries, saltmarsh and mangroves, and become an expert in diverse and rich marine ecosystems, from coral reefs to the deep sea.

When you graduate, you'll be ready for a career in a range of marine science areas, such as conservation, resource management and aquaculture, or to pursue academic research, lab work, field work or policy making.

You could also continue your studies at postgraduate level. Many graduates go onto study MRes Science or MSc Applied Aquatic Biology.

Memberships

You'll also be able to apply to be a Registered Marine Scientist and you'll meet some of the academic requirements to become a Chartered Marine Scientist. And you'll be eligible to apply for Associate Membership of the Royal Society of Biology, which includes access to exclusive grants and awards.

What areas can you work in with a marine biology degree?

Previous graduates of this course have gone on to work in:

• post-graduate research
• coastal zone management
• environmental toxicology
• marine conservation
• aquaculture
• marine policy
• marine resource management

Graduate roles

Roles previous graduates have gone on to do include:

• lab analyst
• field technician
• agriculture supervisor
• radioactive chemist
• extraction scientist
• day yacht skipper
• watersports instructor
• biology teacher

Placement year

After your second or third year, you can do an optional work placement year to get valuable longer-term work experience in the industry. Placements give you the opportunity to apply what you've learnt so far in a real workplace, boosting your employability and making you attractive to employers after graduation. 

You can work for a company or organisation here in the UK or overseas, although our coastal location means there are many placement opportunities nearby.

Our partners include commercial, research and non-profit organisations such as:

• Maidenhead Aquatics
• Field Studies Council
• ORCA
• Blue Marine Foundation

Whichever route you choose, you'll receive support and guidance. Our specialist team of Science and Health Careers advisors can help you with finding a work placement and improving your employability skills. They'll provide you with a database of placement vacancies, support with your job search – including help with applications and interviews – and support throughout your placement year.

Study abroad

You'll also have the opportunity to study abroad at one of our partner universities. Studying overseas is a fantastic opportunity to enhance your CV and experience a different culture as an international student.

Many of our students describe their time spent studying abroad as truly life-changing, as well as an excellent way to stand out to future employers.

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Entry requirements for this course

Contact University of Portsmouth to find course entry requirements.

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