BSc (Hons) Marine & Freshwater Biology

Overview

The BSc (Hons) Marine & Freshwater Biology course focuses on the study of the fascinating diversity of life contained in aquatic habitats. Students will explore the aquatic environment, its importance in understanding climate change, and how to monitor and protect marine and freshwater species in a sustainable manner.

Mode of Study

• Part-time (available as Full-time)

Duration

• 6 years

Start date

• September

Study Abroad

• Yes

Course details

The course will equip students with a broad portfolio of skills in both specialist techniques such as species identification, surveying, data analysis, and GIS, along with communication of scientific information, IT, problem-solving, and team working.

Year 1

• Foundations in Science
• Life on Earth
• Scientific Enquiry
• Introductory Microbiology

Year 2

• Comparative Anatomy and Physiology
• Practical Skills in Biodiversity
• Cell Biology: Structure and Function
• Animal Behaviour

Year 3

• Genes and Inheritance
• Ecology and Sustainability
• Physiology, Adaptation and Disease
• Option module

Year 4

• Ecology Field Studies
• Research Methods
• Conservation Biology
• Freshwater Biology

Year 5

• Habitat Assessment and GIS
• Professional Practice
• Marine Biology
• Research Project (split over two years)

Year 6

• Current Topics in Ecology
• Fish and Fisheries Biology
• Research Project (split over two years)

Entry requirements

Minimum Year 1

• SQA Higher: BBBB including Human Biology, Biology, Chemistry, or Physics
• A Level: BCC including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Applied Science
• BTEC (QCF) Extended Diploma Level 3: Minimum grades DMM (Distinction, Merit, Merit) in a related subject
• Irish Leaving Certificate: Grades H2/H2/H3/H3 including a Science subject (Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
• International Baccalaureate Diploma: Award of Diploma with 28 points overall with three HL subjects at grades 6, 5, 4 including a Science (Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, or Physics) at minimum grade 5

Minimum Year 2

• SQA Advanced Higher: BBC to include Biology
• A Level: BBB to include Biology
• HNC: Pass HNC in a related subject with B in the graded unit

Minimum Year 3

• HND: Pass in a related subject with Grades BB at SCQF Level 8 in the graded units

Fees & funding

Tuition fees for 2024/25

• Scotland: £305
• England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland: £1,157
• Overseas and EU: £3,225

Careers

What can you do with a Marine & Freshwater Biology Degree?

By studying Marine & Freshwater biology at Edinburgh Napier University, students will learn about the marine and freshwater species habitats, management of aquatic resources, and ecosystems. On completion of the course, students will have become experts in marine species as well as coastal and freshwater environments, with practical skills in aquaculture, fisheries management, and conservation.

What does a Marine or Freshwater Ecologist do?

A marine or freshwater ecologist specializes in studying and monitoring the communities of animals that live in aquatic ecosystems. Daily tasks and responsibilities may include:

• Ecosystem monitoring
• Species identification
• Data analysis and interpretation
• Creating or advising on environmental policy
• Public engagement

Edinburgh Napier University

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Overview:

Edinburgh Napier University is a modern university located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is renowned for its student learning experience and its commitment to innovation and enterprise. The university boasts a diverse student body with over 20,000 students from over 140 countries.

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Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Libraries and Heritage Collections:

Access to extensive library resources and heritage collections.

Accommodation:

On-campus accommodation options for students.

Student Life:

Opportunities for student engagement through clubs, societies, and events.

Funding:

Bursaries and scholarships to support students financially.

Career Services:

Guidance and support for career development and job searching.

International Student Support:

Dedicated services for international students.

Online Study:

Flexible learning options through online courses.

Short Courses:

Opportunities for professional development through short courses.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Edinburgh Napier University provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience. Students can participate in a variety of activities, including:

Clubs and Societies:

Joining clubs and societies related to their interests.

Events:

Attending university-organized events and social gatherings.

Sports:

Participating in sports teams and activities.

Student Union:

Engaging with the student union for representation and support.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

High Rankings:

Consistently ranked among the top modern universities in Scotland and the UK.

Student Satisfaction:

High student satisfaction rates, reflecting a positive learning environment.

Research Power:

Strong research output and impact, contributing to knowledge advancement.

International Focus:

Diverse student body and global partnerships, fostering a multicultural environment.

Career-Focused Education:

Programs designed to equip students with the skills needed for successful careers.

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Academic Programs:

Edinburgh Napier University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Accounting and Finance

Acting

Biological Sciences

Building and Surveying

Business and Management

Computing

Criminology, Psychology, and Sociology

Design, Photography, and Advertising

Engineering

English, Creative Writing, and Publishing

Film, Journalism, and Media

Health and Social Care

Law

Marketing

Music

Nursing and Midwifery

Sport and Exercise Sciences

Teaching

Tourism, Hospitality, Festival, and Events Management