Applied Marine Zoology

What is more exciting or enigmatic than the life in our oceans? We still know so little about this alien world which makes up 98% of the living space on our planet, but with technology developing at such a pace more and more discoveries are being made. It is an exciting time to be involved in any aspect of marine science; a crucial one too, as our impact on the world’s oceans has never been greater.

Foundation degree students who wish to progress to an honours degree can apply for third year entry to our top-up programme. You will need to have studied an appropriate foundation degree programme. The BSc has been designed to develop your interest and hone your professional skills to equip you for work in a growing industry.

Situated on the beautiful coast of North Cornwall we are perfectly located for fieldwork and we have a strong practical element running through the programme. You will get hands-on experience in using sampling and survey equipment, as well as planning and undertaking marine surveys: from plankton trawls, to underwater video mapping and offshore marine life surveys.

During your studies you will develop your understanding of marine animals; working from cellular processes up to whole organism and ecosystem levels. In Year 1 you will receive a firm grounding in aquatic ecology, marine and biological science as well as developing practical survey skills before moving on to more specialised modules, such as fish ecology and marine vertebrate biology and conservation in your second year. In your final year, you will choose from options such as GIS and marine environmental management, monitoring marine ecosystems and marine pollution and ecotoxicology as well as undertaking your own research for your honours project.

Assessment
Assessment includes coursework (approximately 70%) and exams/tests (30%). It is vitally important to build your communication skills as a scientist, so coursework is varied and includes a range from the conventional mediums like scientific reports, posters, presentations & essays to less traditional formats like film, podcasts, web content and social media.

Progression
It is the UN decade of the ocean and habitat restoration, this vital time for marine conservation activity is mirrored by the increasing interest in the marine world by the UK government and also different industries; some more sustainable than others. The variety and number of career opportunities in this field are expanding rapidly.

Possible Careers

• Marine Biologist

• Marine Education Officer

• Fisheries Officer

• Marine Technician

• Marine Ecological Consultant

• University Researcher

• Wildlife Guide

Examples of recent graduates: marine manager for Natural England, project lead for Manta Trust in Chagas Islands, PhD student with the Marine Biological Association, wildlife guide with Padstow Sea Safaris, aquarist at Blue Reef aquarium Newquay.

Explore your options — we offer CertHE, FdSc, and BSc routes in this subject area, with different course lengths, levels of study, and entry tariffs, to suit your goals.

From BSc you can also progress to our MSc Conservation Project Management to deepen your expertise and build advanced professional skills.

Cornwall College University Centre offers a unique and fulfilling university experience with small class sizes, allowing for personal attention from tutors and a strong sense of community among students. The wrap-around support provided ensures that students receive the necessary guidance and resources to excel in their studies, while studying alongside likeminded individuals who share their passion for vocational technical skills. Located in one of the most beautiful and natural parts of the country, students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings while developing practical skills that set them apart in the job market.

Course Modules

Indicative Modules Year 1: - Marine Science (20 credits) - Marine Survey Techniques (20 credits) - Diversity, Classification & Evolution (20 credits) - Ecology of Aquatic Systems (20 credits) - Key Professional Skills (20 credits) - Fundamentals of Biology (20 credits). Indicative Modules Year 2: - Marine Vertebrate Biology & Conservation (20 credits) - Fish Ecology (20 credits) - Marine Invertebrates (20 credits) - Research Methods & GIS for Zoology (20 credits) - Marine Conservation in Practice (20 credits). Year 2 Optional Modules: - Global Conservation Issues (20 credits) - Population Genetics & Community Ecology (20 credits). Indicative Modules Year 3: - Monitoring Marine Ecosystems (20 credits) - GIS & Marine Environmental Management (20 credits) - Honours Project (40 credits). Year 3 Optional Modules: - Applications of Zoology (20 credits) - Conservation Project Management (20 credits) - Marine Pollution & Ecotoxicology (20 credits) - Conservation Genetics (20 credits) - Communicating Zoology (20 credits).

Assessment includes coursework (approximately 70%) and exams/tests (30%). It is vitally important to build your communication skills as a scientist, so coursework is varied and includes a range from the conventional mediums like scientific reports, posters, presentations & essays to less traditional formats like film, podcasts, web content and social media.