Ocean Sciences with Foundation Year

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.

Course Modules

During the foundation year, we introduce the fundamental physical, chemical, biological and mathematical concepts needed for further study in the marine sciences and provide a flavour of current research topics in the ocean sciences.

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry and up to date information can be found on our website.