Skip navigation
Marine Biology with Foundation Year at University of Plymouth - UCAS

Course options

2025 - 20262026 - 2027
Apply

There are other course options available which may have a different vacancy status or entry requirements – view the full list of options

University of Plymouth has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.

Open days

25Apr
University of Plymouth - Open Day
Undergraduate
20Jun
University of Plymouth - Open Day
Undergraduate

Course summary

Interested in marine biology but lack the usual qualifications? This four-year degree includes a foundation year to build your study skills and scientific knowledge, helping you confidently progress into the full honours course. Learn from the best We're at the forefront of knowledge in how marine organisms are composed, function, evolve and interact within ecosystems. From the laboratory to field Developing rigorous scientists through practical experience in core research skills and cutting-edge techniques. Facing global challenges We'll prepare you to find the answers to fundamental questions and solutions for the challenges associated with climate change, habitat loss, pollution and sustainable food production. This course is for you if...

  • you're passionate about exploring marine life, from coastal margins to the deep sea
  • you seek hands-on experience in both laboratory and field settings
  • you are passionate about understanding and finding solutions to the challenges facing marine ecosystems
  • you want to develop the practical, intellectual and scientific skills to become a practising marine biologist.

Modules

Foundation Year This foundation year combines subject-specific learning in biology with core scientific skills in mathematics, statistics, and chemistry – providing the essential preparation for studying science at degree level. Alongside this, you’ll learn how to study at university level – gaining the academic skills, confidence, and knowledge to thrive in your chosen degree and take your first steps towards a career as a science professional. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment, with access to personal tutor as well as wider university support services. These include the SUM:UP service for mathematics and statistics, the Charles Seale-Hayne Library, and the Learning Development team. Our support is designed to be flexible and responsive, recognising that students may require different types and levels of guidance throughout their studies. For up to date details, please refer to our website or contact the institution directly.

Assessment method

For up to date details, please refer to our website or contact the institution directly.

Qualified teacher status (QTS)

To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:

  • Course does not award QTS

How to apply

14Jan

This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.

Application codes

Please select a course option – you will then see the application code you need to use to apply for the course.

Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

  • Foundation

International applicants

The University of Plymouth has a dedicated Student Immigration Advice (SIA) service who will support you from the day you accept an offer at the University, right through to graduation. They will offer help and advice so you can get the most out of your studies, and your time in the UK, visit www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/international-student-advice for more information. Once you have applied, your conditional offer letter will also be sent to you by email, so be sure to enter your current email address on your application and to check this email regularly. You'll need your unconditional letter, and the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) that we'll send you, when applying for your student visa to the UK. A tuition fee deposit will be required before we'll send you the CAS. We're a licenced Sponsor under the Points Based System. To comply with our duties as a Sponsor, we're required to check other aspects of your application in addition to your academic achievements, for example any previous studies, financial status and your immigration history in the UK. For course entry requirements (inc. English requirements) please refer to the specific page for the course you are interested in (www.plymouth.ac.uk/study). A recognised English language qualification (e.g. IELTS) would be required or successful completion of one of the University's pre-sessional English Language courses. Check our country pages to find out more about application from your specific home country www.plymouth.ac.uk/international/study/international-students-country-guides. International fees, please visit our fees and funding pages www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/fees. If you have any questions please contact [email protected]

Entry requirements

Qualification requirements

Maths and English GCSE at Grade C/4.

Additional entry requirements

Interview

Student Outcomes

Operated by the Office for Students
62%
Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)
87%
Go onto work and study

The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

For all information about tuition fees, please visit our fees and funding pages at www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/fees * Fees are correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change.
Marine Biology with Foundation Year at University of Plymouth - UCAS