Course summary

The BSc (Hons) Marine Biology (including Foundation Year) is a four-year degree. You’ll become a well-rounded marine scientist with a strong knowledge across the spectrum of marine biology and ecology. If you don’t yet meet the entry requirements for the three-year version, starting the course with a Foundation Year gives you a supported step up to university study. WHY THIS COURSE The BSc (Hons) Marine Biology (including Foundation Year) lets you explore marine biology at all scales, from our on-campus aquaria, to local estuaries and ecosystems, to whole ocean systems on the other side of the planet. You'll spend Year Zero on our Life Sciences Pathway, gaining an introduction to biology, chemistry for biology, and mathematics and statistics for life sciences. You’ll then choose whether to progress to the BSc (Hons) Marine Biology, BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences or BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science. From Year One, you’ll be able to explore our academic staff’s own areas of research such as coral reef conservation, fisheries management, animal behaviour, marine biotechnology and microbiology. With a practical approach to learning, you’ll gain key scientific skills such as data analysis and interpretation, literature, research and presentation skills. You’ll visit local sites with rich diversity and interact with organisations such as the Essex Wildlife Trust, the Environment Agency and Colchester Oyster Fisheries. You’ll also have the opportunity to embark on residential trips to Scotland, Greece and Indonesia, learning to dive and participating in unique underwater research surveys and lectures. You’ll graduate on the path to a marine science or ecology career, ready to help resolve the increasing environmental issues across the world.