Program Overview

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Introduction to the BSc (Hons) Marine Biology with Foundation Year

The BSc (Hons) Marine Biology with Foundation Year is a four-year degree that includes a foundation year to build study skills and scientific knowledge, helping students confidently progress into the full honors course. This program is designed for individuals interested in marine biology but lack the usual qualifications.

About the Course

Our city's seafront location hosts one of the highest concentrations of marine scientists in Europe, with links to internationally renowned research institutions. The foundation year combines subject-specific learning in biology with core scientific skills in mathematics, statistics, and chemistry, providing essential preparation for studying science at degree level.

What is a Foundation Year?

A Foundation year provides an additional entry-level year for students to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course. On completing the Foundation year successfully, students progress automatically onto the full degree course.

Why Choose a Degree with a Foundation Year?

• To build confidence to study at university level
• To gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree
• Qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree
• To study a new subject that previous qualifications or experience haven't prepared for
• University wasn't considered an available option
• To join a university course needed for a specific career

Course Details

Foundation Year

The foundation year includes modules such as:

• Becoming a Successful Global Scientist: Introduces learners to major global environmental challenges and helps enable learners to adapt to the Higher Education Learning Environment.
• Introduction to Our Natural World: Introduces students to the study of natural sciences and their fundamental importance as cornerstones of modern science.
• Exploring the Drivers of Our Natural World: Builds on core ideas introduced in the first semester, introducing a range of additional biological and marine concepts.
• Sustainable Development Project: Introduces learners to group work, investigating one of the global environmental challenges facing society today.

Progression Routes

Upon successful completion of the foundation year, students progress onto Year 1 of one of the undergraduate degrees, including:

• BSc (Hons) Marine Biology
• BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology
• BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography

Experience

Benefit from Fieldwork

Students go beyond the classroom, applying theory to real-world research through local and international field trips. Previous students have studied rocky shores, seagrass meadows, and estuaries along the UK's coast, as well as tropical and temperate marine environments further afield.

Facilities

The university has cutting-edge facilities, including the Marine Station, research vessels, specialist labs, and a 5G interactive microscope laboratory.

Research Expeditions

Research expeditions offer the chance to assist expert researchers in the field, both locally and internationally, providing hands-on research experience and valuable skills.

Professional Diving Qualification

The university offers the opportunity to gain the HSE Professional SCUBA certification alongside the degree, enhancing career prospects.

Careers

As a marine biology graduate, career options are expansive, including research institutions, charities, NGOs, environmental monitoring, filmmaking, conservation, consultancy services, policy influence, education, and scientific journalism.

Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees

• UK: £9,790 per year (full-time study)
• International: £19,200 per year (full-time study)

Additional Costs

This course may incur additional costs relating to field-based activities or equipment requirements.

Entry Requirements

• Typical Offer: 48 UCAS points
• GCSE: English and Mathematics at grade C / 4 or above
• A Levels: 48 points from a minimum of 2 A levels, including D in Biology and preferably further relevant Science subjects
• BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: A typical offer would be MPP, depending on the BTEC and units studied
• Access Courses: Science-related Access Diplomas are considered
• T Level: Pass from a science pathway
• International Baccalaureate: 24 overall, to include Higher Level 4 in Biology

English Language Requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course, students must have a suitable English language qualification.