BSc (Hons) Marine Biology

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65 to 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 79, with at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, and 17 in Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 54 with no individual score below 51.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105 is required.
• 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 Portsmouth offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to support students in their academic journey. These scholarships are aimed at both domestic and international students and are awarded based on various criteria such as academic excellence, financial need, and specific areas of study. 

Chancellor's Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to exceptional students who demonstrate academic excellence and potential. It provides a significant fee reduction for the duration of the student's course.

Vice-Chancellor's Global Development Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students from selected countries who are applying for undergraduate or postgraduate taught courses. It offers a fee reduction of up to £4,000.

Country-Specific Scholarships: The university offers scholarships specifically for students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships vary in value and eligibility criteria.

Sports Scholarships: The University of Portsmouth recognizes the achievements of talented athletes and offers sports scholarships to support their development and academic success. These scholarships provide financial support, training facilities, and other benefits.

Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at the University of Portsmouth offer scholarships to students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance or have a particular interest in a specific field of study. These scholarships are often subject-specific and may vary in terms of eligibility and value.

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Marine Biology program from the University of Portsmouth possess a unique skill set that prepares them for diverse and rewarding careers in marine science, research, conservation, education, and related fields.

Marine Biologist: Graduates may pursue careers as marine biologists, conducting research on marine organisms, ecosystems, and environmental processes. They may work for research institutions, government agencies, non-profit organizations, or environmental consulting firms, studying topics such as marine biodiversity, marine ecology, and marine conservation.

Marine Conservationist: Graduates can work as marine conservationists, advocating for the protection and sustainable management of marine ecosystems and species. They may develop conservation strategies, conduct environmental assessments, and work with communities and policymakers to promote marine conservation efforts. Marine conservationists may work for NGOs, government agencies, marine parks, or environmental advocacy groups.

Marine Researcher: Graduates may pursue careers as marine researchers, conducting scientific studies and experiments to advance our understanding of marine biology and ecology. They may specialize in areas such as marine genetics, marine physiology, marine microbiology, or marine toxicology. Marine researchers may work in academia, research institutions, or private industry, contributing to scientific knowledge and innovation in marine science.

Fisheries Biologist: Graduates with an interest in fisheries science may work as fisheries biologists, studying fish populations, fish behavior, and fisheries management strategies. They may conduct field surveys, collect data on fish stocks, and assess the impact of fishing practices on marine ecosystems. Fisheries biologists may work for government agencies, research organizations, or fishing companies, contributing to sustainable fisheries management and conservation efforts.

Aquaculture Specialist: Graduates may pursue careers in aquaculture, the farming of aquatic organisms such as fish, shellfish, and seaweeds. They may work in aquaculture facilities, hatcheries, or research laboratories, managing aquaculture operations, developing new aquaculture techniques, or conducting research on aquaculture sustainability and environmental impact.

Marine Educator: Graduates can work as marine educators, teaching students of all ages about marine biology, oceanography, and marine conservation. They may work in schools, aquariums, nature centers, or outreach programs, inspiring future generations to appreciate and protect the marine environment through hands-on activities, workshops, and educational programs.

Environmental Consultant: Graduates may work as environmental consultants, advising businesses, government agencies, or non-profit organizations on environmental issues related to marine ecosystems and biodiversity. They may conduct environmental assessments, develop mitigation strategies, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations and conservation policies.

Marine Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as marine policy analysts, analyzing legislation, regulations, and policies related to marine conservation and management. They may work for government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy groups, providing expertise and recommendations to policymakers on marine issues such as marine protected areas, fisheries management, and marine pollution.

Scuba Diving Instructor: Graduates with scuba diving qualifications may pursue careers as scuba diving instructors, teaching diving skills and underwater science to recreational divers, research divers, or marine biology students. They may work for dive schools, dive resorts, or marine research organizations, sharing their passion for the marine environment and promoting responsible diving practices.

Marine Expedition Leader: Graduates may work as marine expedition leaders, organizing and leading research expeditions, field trips, or eco-tours to marine destinations around the world. They may work for tour operators, cruise companies, or research organizations, providing guidance and expertise to participants and facilitating immersive experiences in marine ecosystems.