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Ocean Exploration and Surveying

2 Study options · UndergraduateMain Site

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2025-20262026-2027
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Course summary

Launch your global career exploring and surveying the world’s oceans. Using industry-standard equipment and software aboard our fleet of survey vessels, you'll build the hands-on expertise and advanced skills demanded by industry.

Career ready skills
Use our advanced industry-standard survey equipment, research vessels and uncrewed surface vehicles for practical data collection, gaining sought-after experience and in-demand skills in Plymouth's coastal environment.

Fieldwork from week one
Participate in boatwork throughout your degree, immerse yourself in our optional international fieldtrip, gain hands-on experience in real-world environments and apply your skills to the hydrographic sector.

Professional diving and global fieldwork opportunities
Boost your credentials with the HSE Professional SCUBA qualification and a dedicated scientific diving module (optional), alongside opportunities for overseas field courses and industry-based experiences.

This course is for you if...

  • you're eager to develop skills in hydrographic surveying, using advanced, industry-standard equipment

  • you’re passionate about understanding the ocean and seafloor, and the processes that shape them

  • you enjoy hands-on learning through boatwork, fieldwork and labwork

  • you aspire for a career that combines science, adventure and real-world impact.

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:
F731
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:
F731
Institution code:
P60

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

Course options

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Discover what it's like to study Ocean Exploration and Surveying 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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  • Kaan

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    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.

  • Uthsara

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    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.

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    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.

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    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. :)

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    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! 🌟

  • Lucy

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    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!

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    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.

  • Mya

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    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!

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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 and 6 other earth sciences courses
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 .
CCC Most common
  1. AAA
  2. Highest grades
  3. CDD
  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

85 Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)

95 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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