BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 76, with at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, and 18 in Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59 with no individual score below 5.9
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Plymouth offers various scholarships and financial support options to help students fund their studies. 

Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional academic excellence and potential. The scholarships provide a partial tuition fee waiver for the duration of the program.

International Academic Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are available for international students who have achieved outstanding academic results. The scholarships offer a partial tuition fee reduction for the first year of study.

International Plymouth Global Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to attract high-caliber international students to the University of Plymouth. The scholarships provide a partial tuition fee reduction for the first year of study.

Sport Scholarships: The university offers sport scholarships to talented athletes who have achieved a high level of sporting excellence. The scholarships provide support in the form of financial assistance, training, and access to sports facilities.

Subject-Specific Scholarships: Some academic departments at the University of Plymouth offer subject-specific scholarships for students enrolled in particular programs or disciplines. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, research potential, or other criteria determined by the department.

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography program at the University of Plymouth are well-prepared for a variety of rewarding career opportunities in marine science, oceanography, research, conservation, and industry. 

Marine Scientist: Marine scientists study marine ecosystems, oceanographic processes, and marine organisms, conducting research to understand the complex interactions between marine environments and human activities. They may work for research institutions, government agencies, environmental organizations, or consulting firms, conducting fieldwork, analyzing data, and contributing to scientific discoveries in marine science.

Oceanographer: Oceanographers investigate physical, chemical, biological, and geological processes in the oceans, studying ocean circulation, marine currents, water chemistry, marine life, and marine sediments. They may specialize in areas such as physical oceanography, biological oceanography, chemical oceanography, or marine geology, working for research institutes, government agencies, or oceanographic institutions.

Marine Conservationist: Marine conservationists work to protect and preserve marine biodiversity, habitats, and ecosystems through research, advocacy, and conservation initiatives. They may work for nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or conservation groups, developing conservation plans, implementing habitat restoration projects, and raising public awareness about marine conservation issues.

Environmental Consultant: Environmental consultants provide expertise and advice on environmental issues, including marine pollution, habitat degradation, and coastal development projects. They may work for consulting firms, government agencies, or engineering companies, conducting environmental impact assessments, developing mitigation strategies, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and conservation laws.

Marine Resource Manager: Marine resource managers oversee the sustainable management of marine resources, such as fisheries, aquaculture, and coastal zones, to ensure their long-term viability and environmental sustainability. They may work for government agencies, marine parks, or research institutions, developing policies, regulations, and management plans to balance conservation with economic development and resource utilization.

Marine Educator/Outreach Coordinator: Marine educators develop and deliver educational programs, outreach initiatives, and public engagement activities to raise awareness about marine science, conservation, and environmental stewardship. They may work for aquariums, science centers, or environmental nonprofits, developing educational resources, leading field trips, and organizing community events to inspire and educate people about the marine environment.

Fisheries Scientist: Fisheries scientists study fish populations, fisheries management, and aquatic ecosystems, conducting research to assess fish stocks, monitor fisheries health, and develop sustainable fisheries management practices. They may work for government agencies, research institutions, or fisheries management organizations, conducting field surveys, analyzing data, and providing scientific advice to policymakers and resource managers.

Coastal Planner/Manager: Coastal planners and managers develop and implement plans, policies, and strategies to manage coastal zones, protect coastal environments, and mitigate coastal hazards such as erosion and flooding. They may work for government agencies, coastal management authorities, or environmental consulting firms, collaborating with stakeholders to balance conservation, development, and coastal resilience efforts.