What is more exciting or enigmatic than the life in our oceans? We still know so little about this alien world which makes up 98% of the living space on our planet, but with technology developing at such a pace more and more discoveries are being made. It is an exciting time to be involved in any aspect of marine science; a crucial one too, as our impact on the world’s oceans has never been greater.

Foundation degree students who wish to progress to an honours degree can apply for third year entry to our top-up programme. You will need to have studied an appropriate foundation degree programme. The BSc has been designed to develop your interest and hone your professional skills to equip you for work in a growing industry.

Situated on the beautiful coast of North Cornwall we are perfectly located for fieldwork and we have a strong practical element running through the programme. You will get hands-on experience in using sampling and survey equipment, as well as planning and undertaking marine surveys: from plankton trawls, to underwater video mapping and offshore marine life surveys.

During your studies you will develop your understanding of marine animals; working from cellular processes up to whole organism and ecosystem levels. In Year 1 you will receive a firm grounding in aquatic ecology, marine and biological science as well as developing practical survey skills before moving on to more specialised modules, such as fish ecology and marine vertebrate biology and conservation in your second year. In your final year, you will choose from options such as GIS and marine environmental management, monitoring marine ecosystems and marine pollution and ecotoxicology as well as undertaking your own research for your honours project.

Cornwall is a fantastic place to study marine biology. Where else will you find such a wide range of aquatic habitats within walking distance of where you study? There’s wild and rugged headland, sheltered coves, freshwater streams, saltmarsh and sprawling estuaries. You’ll be living with a Marine Conservation Zone in your back yard. Not to mention, the even wider variety of habitats accessible to you just a short drive away.

This unique location has cultivated a vibrant conservation community to match the surroundings, and your passion for the sea will be in good company. Students can take their pick of what to get involved in, benefiting from our strong ties with likeminded groups, charities and businesses such as Blue Reef Aquarium, Cornwall Wildlife Trust, Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust, Newquay Marine Group, British Divers Marine Life Rescue and many more. We also have guest lectures and visits incorporated into all modules which keeps our content even more contemporary and relevant.

You can study the final year (level 6) of Applied Marine Zoology to top up your foundation degree to a BSc. The FdSc or equivalent would need to be in a suitable subject – contact us to discuss further.

Progression

It is the UN decade of the ocean and habitat restoration, this vital time for marine conservation activity is mirrored by the increasing interest in the marine world by the UK government and also different industries; some more sustainable than others. The variety and number of career opportunities in this field are expanding rapidly.

Possible Careers

- Marine Biologist
- Marine Education Officer
- Fisheries Officer
- Marine Technician
- Marine Ecological Consultant
- University Researcher
- Wildlife Guide

Examples of recent graduates: marine manager for Natural England, project lead for Manta Trust in Chagas Islands, PhD student with the Marine Biological Association, wildlife guide with Padstow Sea Safaris, aquarist at Blue Reef aquarium Newquay.