Program Overview

Introduction to Marine Biology BSc (Hons)

The Marine Biology BSc (Hons) program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the behavior, physiology, and ecology of marine organisms. The course covers a broad range of topics, including the diversity of life in the marine environment, human threats to ecosystems, and quantitative skills for ecology and marine biology.

Course Structure

The program is structured over three years, with a combination of compulsory and optional modules. In the first year, students develop essential skills required to be a marine biologist and build a foundation of knowledge on the physical and biological environments. The second year develops more specialist knowledge of marine biology, while allowing students to take a wide range of options in areas that interest them. The third year focuses on research skills, including an independent research project.

Modules

• ENVS171: Laboratory and Field Techniques for Ecologists: This module provides training in a range of ecological skills through field and laboratory exercises.
• ENVS121: Life in the Seas and Oceans: This module delivers an introduction to the diversity of life in the marine environment.
• ENVS128: Quantitative Skills for Ecology and Marine Biology: This module helps students develop the quantitative skills needed for ecology, marine biology, and related subjects.
• ENVS119: Living with Environmental Change: This module examines global 'grand challenges' facing humans on the planet earth related to climate and environmental change.
• BIOS104: From Individuals to Ecosystem: This module explores the intricacies of our living environment, encompassing the spatial and temporal distribution of organisms.
• ENVS278: Marine Ecology Field Studies: This module introduces the ecology of coastal marine ecosystems and the techniques for studying them.
• ENVS157: Ecology and Conservation: This module explores the interactions between organisms and the environment and how ecosystems respond to change.
• ENVS251: Marine Ecophysiology, Ecology and Exploitation: This module provides a solid grounding in topics, concepts, and issues in the marine environment relating to the physiology and ecology of marine organisms.
• ENVS204: Research and Career Skills: This module aims to develop research and careers skills required by marine biologists, ocean scientists, and environmental scientists.
• ENVS222: Statistics for Environmental Scientists: This module provides training in statistics for environmental scientists, using industry-standard software.
• ENVS255: Understanding Marine and Terrestrial Spatial Ecology Using GIS: This module explores the concepts and applications of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) to solve contemporary questions in spatial ecology.
• ENVS245: Oceanography, Plankton and Climate: This module looks at how the ocean works in Earth's climate system, including the formation of ocean currents and tides.
• ENVS232: Marine Pollution: This module covers how marine systems are changing due to globally increasing water temperatures and increasing carbon dioxide concentrations.
• BIOS208: Advanced Practical Skills in Evolution, Ecology, and Behaviour: This module provides practical experience in laboratory and field techniques for studying animals.
• ENVS301: Contemporary Issues in Marine Sciences: This module dives deep into current issues and research topics in the marine sciences through guest seminars and independent research.
• BIOS222: Animal Ecophysiology: This module examines physiological adaptations that occur when animals face changes in their environment.
• ENVS306: Independent Research Project: This module consists of a two-semester dissertation research project, carried out individually by a student with supervision by a member of academic staff.
• ENVS310: Surviving the Marine Environment: This module explores the physiological adaptations of marine organisms to survive in challenging environments.

Accreditation

The Marine Biology BSc (Hons) degree is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMAREST), opening up opportunities for students and graduates.

Careers and Employability

Graduates from this program are highly employable, with careers in conservation, aquaculture, pollution, and environmental monitoring. Many also choose to continue their studies at master's or PhD level.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for the program vary depending on the student's nationality and residency status. Scholarships and bursaries are available to support students with their studies.

Entry Requirements

The typical offer for this program is ABB at A level, including Biology and one other science. International students are required to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, with IELTS 6.0 overall or equivalent.

Global Opportunities

The University of Liverpool offers a range of global opportunities, including study abroad programs, language study, and international research collaborations.

Research

The University of Liverpool has a strong research focus, with a range of research units and facilities available to support student research projects. The Marine Biology program is research-led, with teaching informed by the latest research and advances in the field.