Program Overview

Introduction to BSc (Hons) Marine Conservation and Ecology with Foundation Year

The BSc (Hons) Marine Conservation and Ecology with Foundation Year is a four-year undergraduate degree that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of marine conservation and ecology. The foundation year is designed for students who do not have the traditional entry requirements for a degree, and it provides a solid grounding in the disciplines underpinning marine conservation and ecology.

About the Course

The course is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to pursue a career in marine conservation and ecology. The foundation year combines subject-specific learning in biology with core scientific skills in mathematics, statistics, and chemistry, providing the essential preparation for studying science at degree level.

Details of the Foundation Year

The foundation year consists of four core modules:

• FYM001: Becoming a Successful Global Scientist (30 credits)
• FYM003: Introduction to Our Natural World (30 credits)
• FYM005: Exploring the Drivers of Our Natural World (30 credits)
• FYM006: Sustainable Development Project (30 credits)

Progression Routes

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

• BSc (Hons) Ecology and Conservation
• BSc (Hons) Marine Conservation

Experience

The course provides students with a wide range of specialist facilities and resources, including:

• Marine Station
• Lower Vertebrates and Invertebrates laboratory
• Plymouth Electron Microscopy Centre (PEMC)
• 5G interactive microscope laboratory
• LABplus
• Ecoloans library
• Controlled environment chambers

Careers

The course equips students with a strong foundation in marine science, biological conservation, and ecology, complemented by skills drawn from the social sciences and humanities. This broad skill set enhances employability across a wide range of sectors, including:

• Conservation organisations and non-governmental organisations
• Government and regulatory agencies
• Marine industry and sustainable business
• Science communication and education
• Fieldwork and exploration
• Research and academia

Fees and Funding

The tuition fees for the course are:

• UK: ｣9,790 per year
• International: ｣19,200 per year
• Optional placement year: ｣1,955 (UK), ｣1,465 (international)

Entry Requirements

The typical offer for the course is 32 UCAS points, and students may be eligible for a contextual offer. The entry requirements include:

• GCSE English and Mathematics at grade C/4 or above
• A levels: 32 points from a minimum of 2 A levels, including a pass in a relevant science subject
• BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: PPP in a relevant science subject
• International Baccalaureate: 24 points, including Grade 3 in one Higher Level relevant science subject

English Language Requirements

To be accepted onto the course, students must have a suitable English language qualification. The University of Plymouth accepts a range of English language qualifications, including IELTS, TOEFL, and Pearson PTE Academic.