Course contact details
Admissions
Email:admissions@plymouth.ac.uk
Phone:+44 (0) 1752 585858
University of Plymouth
Drake Circus
Plymouth
PL4 8AA
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.
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.
This course may be available at alternative locations, please check if other course options are available.
Course optionsDiscover what it's like to study Marine Biology with Foundation Year at University of Plymouth: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.
48 UCAS points, to include a minimum of two A levels including Grade D in Biology and preferably a second science.
Science pathway
To include a minimum of two A levels including Grade D in Biology and preferably a second science.
Considered in combination - Refer to institution once qualification achieved
in a Science-based subject
48 UCAS points, to include Grade D in Biology
In a relevant Science subject.
Accepted in combination - Refer to institution once qualification achieved
Considered in combination - Refer to institution once qualification achieved
24 points achieved to include H4 in Biology
English and Maths accepted within.
This would be accepted in combination of other level 3 qualifications
in a relevant Science subject.
48 UCAS points, to include H5 in Biology
Considered in combination - Refer to institution once qualification achieved
Considered in combination - Refer to institution once qualification achieved
Considered in combination - Refer to institution once qualification achieved
Considered in combination - Refer to institution once qualification achieved
This would be accepted in combination of other level 3 qualifications
Considered in combination - Refer to institution once qualification achieved
Considered in combination - Refer to institution once qualification achieved
Considered in combination - Refer to institution once qualification achieved
Maths and English GCSE at Grade C/4.
This section shows the range of grades that students who received offers were previously accepted on to this course with (learn more).
It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place.
Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.
This course may have Historical entry grades data available, please select a course option to view.
Course optionsNo 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.
For all information about tuition fees, please visit our fees and funding pages at www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/fees
Email:admissions@plymouth.ac.uk
Phone:+44 (0) 1752 585858
Drake Circus
Plymouth
PL4 8AA
At University of Plymouth