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Ocean Sciences with Foundation Year

  • 2 Study options
  • Undergraduate
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2025-20262026-2027
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Course summary

Expand your knowledge of the oceans with the BSc (Hons) Ocean Sciences with Foundation Year. During this new four-year degree route you will explore the diverse range of open ocean, coastal, hydrographic and conservation specialisations this course offers. If your current qualifications don’t allow you direct entry to degree level or if you have been out of formal education for some time, this course is for you.

  • Ranked top 15 in the UK and top 100 globally for Earth and Marine Sciences in the QS World University Rankings 2023.

  • Study the physical, biological, chemical and mathematical principles that underpin the marine sciences.

  • Build your confidence as an independent learner as you develop research, analytical and scientific reporting skills throughout the year.

  • Learn about current issues in marine sciences from research active staff who are passionate about their subjects.

  • Study under the guidance of a personal academic tutor from the School of Biological and Marine Sciences.

  • Subject to successful completion of the foundation year (Year 0), choose from progression routes that will help you gain a sound knowledge base across all areas of ocean science with options to develop specialist skills in marine conservation, oceanography or hydrography.

  • Experience the university life right from the start, being taught by staff who teach on the degree courses.

  • Practical sessions are held in our well-appointed laboratories.

  • Excellent mathematics support via SUM: UP drop-in centre.

  • The foundation year is an integral part of the extended degree. Completion of the foundation year will not lead to a separate award or qualification its own right but will provide access to Year 1 of your degree.

Ways to study this course

Campuses

  • Main Site

Study options

  • BSc (Hons) • Full-time including foundation year • 4 Years
  • BSc (Hons) • Sandwich including foundation year • 5 Years

Start dates

  • 21/09/2026

Application codes

Course code:
F735
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:
F735
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 Sciences with Foundation Year 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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  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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! 🌟

  • 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!

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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!

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 3 other geography, earth and environmental studies (foundation only) 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 .
DDE Most common
  1. CCC
  2. Highest grades
  3. DEE
  4. Lowest grades

Offer rate for UK school & college leavers

100% 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

65 Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)

85 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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