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Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology

2 Study options · UndergraduateMain Site

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2025-20262026-2027
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Course summary

Explore marine life from coast to deep sea with a globally respected degree. Study organisms from microbes to vertebrates, understand ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation, and examine human and climate impacts on ocean life.

Learn from the best
We’re at the forefront of research into how we can preserve marine ecosystems and conserve marine biodiversity as we confront pressing ecological challenges.

Learn by the sea from day one
You'll gain hands-on experience from the very start, exploring marine life from the beach to our research vessels and state-of-the-art labs at the Marine Station.

Facing global challenges
Develop skills that will enable you to conserve marine life, find solutions for climate change and habitat loss, and understand the biodiversity in marine habitats.

This course is for you if...

  • you're passionate about exploring marine biodiversity and ecosystems

  • you want hands-on experience in coastal and marine habitats, in the lab and the field

  • 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 practicing marine ecologist.

Ways to study this course

Campuses

  • Main Site

Study options

  • BSc (Hons) • Full-time • 3 Years
  • BSc (Hons) • Sandwich • 4 Years

Start dates

  • 21/09/2026

Application codes

Course code:
C160
Institution code:
P60

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

See why these ratings were awarded
What does this TEF outcome mean?

How to apply

Application codes

Course code:
C160
Institution code:
P60

This course may be available at alternative locations, please check if other course options are available.

Course options

Open days

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Discover what it's like to study Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology at University of Plymouth: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.

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  • Lucy

    University of Plymouth
    BSc (Hons) Ocean Science and Marine Conservation
    Hi, I'm Lucy, and I studied Animal Management in Yorkshire before heading to do Ocean Science and Marine Conservation here. It was an unusual way to get into uni but it's all been absolutely worth it! I'd love to be involved in marine megafauna research once I finish here, but right now I'm just enjoying all the opportunities Plymouth has to offer!

  • Uthsara

    University of Plymouth
    BSc (Hons) Navigation and Maritime Science
    I hope to work in the maritime industry as a seafarer. To work on bulk cargo ships and containerships. Previously I completed my education to A-Level in Sri Lanka.

  • Elena

    University of Plymouth
    BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
    Hi! I'm Elena, I am a mature student (aged 32) studying Mechanical Engineering. I have a strong passion for art and design, so I love the fact that Mechanical Engineering can be really creative. My dream is to go into Engineering Design someday. I have a disability and I am a wheelchair user.

  • Gifty

    University of Plymouth
    BMBS Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery with Foundation (Year 0)
    I enjoy studying medicine. It challenges me for the better. I want to make a positive impact in the lives of people no matter where I am as well as support people going through mental health issues.

  • ami

    University of Plymouth
    MOccTh (Hons) Occupational Therapy
    Hello, My names Ami and i am a second year student of occupational therapy ! Any questions regarding university life and the course feel free to text me. :)

  • Joey

    University of Plymouth
    MDiet (Hons) Dietetics
    Hiiiii! I’m Joey, an international student from Hong Kong! It was my first time coming to the UK when I started university, and honestly, it’s been the best decision I’ve ever made. I’ve always been super interested in diet and food (because I’m such a foodie!), and I’m really excited to become a dietitian after graduation!

  • Costanza

    University of Plymouth
    BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy (Full-time)
    Hi everyone! 👋 My name is Costanza, I’m 29 years old, and I’m half Italian and half Iranian. I’m currently studying Occupational Therapy (BSc) full-time at the University of Plymouth. I absolutely love travelling, discovering new cultures, reading, hiking, watching films, cooking, and spending time with my friends and family. I’m really pleased to be back in education here in England — it’s been such a rewarding experience! As a mature student, I truly believe it’s never too late to return to study and pursue a meaningful career. I see myself working as an Occupational Therapist, hopefully within mental health, although I’m open to wherever the future takes me. I’m here to support you with any questions you might have — whether about the OT course specifically or about life at the University of Plymouth in general. Having studied in a second language myself, I completely understand the challenges that can come with that. Please don’t let any worries hold you back — there’s a wealth of support available here at UoP, and it truly is an amazing place to learn and grow! 🌟

  • Jenita

    University of Plymouth
    MSc Advanced Professional Practice (Nursing and Midwifery Professions)
    I’m a current student on the MSc Advanced Professional Practice (Nursing and Midwifery Professions) programme, living in Cornwall and studying through a blended learning approach with the University of Plymouth. Previously studied BSc Biomedical Science on the Plymouth campus and FdSc Nursing Associate and BSc Nursing (Adult Health) on the Truro campus (both with the University of Plymouth). Currently practicing as a Registered Nurse in Cardiac and Respiratory health alongside my studies. Within the next 12 months, I'm hoping to obtain my Master's qualification and hope to one day teach as a lecturer at the University of Plymouth. I started off my University of Plymouth journey through Clearing, so I am happy to answer any questions relating to the Clearing process, as well as applying for new courses through UCAS. With over 10 years of experience of higher education under my belt, I’m happy to answer any questions you might have about university life.

  • Mya

    University of Plymouth
    MEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
    Hey, I’m Mya 🌻 I love connecting with new students and helping them feel more confident about university. Feel free to message me with any questions about studying, campus life, or making the most of your time here!

  • Kaan

    University of Plymouth
    PhD Education
    I have completed undergrad in the field of education of students with visual impairments in Turkey. After that, I have worked in a special education centre as a special education teacher for almost one year. When I was working, I won a scholarship. Thanks to the scholarship, an exiting adventure has started in my life. Thereafter, I have completed master degree at The University of Nottingham, which provided unforgettable experiences to me. Nowadays, I am in Plymouth and interested in doctoral studies about students with dyslexia. After I complete my studies, I will be academician at Marmara university in Turkey.

Historical entry grades data BETA

This section shows the range of grades students (with UK A-Levels or Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas) who received offers were previously accepted 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.

Data from:
This course
Date range:
2022-2024

Grades held by accepted students

For University of Plymouth, the top and bottom 5% of student grades have been removed from these calculations. This change helps to remove any extraordinary circumstances that could impact the data. Learn more here .
BBB Most common
  1. A*A*A
  2. Highest grades
  3. CCC
  4. Lowest grades

Offer rate for UK school & college leavers

99% Students aged 17/18 who applied to this course were offered a place.

How do you compare?

See how students with your grades have been accepted onto this course in the past.

Student Outcomes

Operated by the Office for Students

60 Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)

90 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

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