Program Overview

This is a 4-year course designed specifically for students who want to gain a really in-depth understanding of the subject. During the first three years, you will follow an same degree course structure as for Marine Biology and Zoology BSc. At the end of Year two, providing a satisfactory mark has been obtained, you continue with Year three of the BSc course and proceed to a 4th year specialised course. In the fourth year you will carry out a substantial piece of research which forms your final year dissertation. You will be able to work in a staff member’s research group and will gain valuable research experience of working in a research environment.

The Marine Biology element of this course covers animals, seaweeds, plants and microbial life in the seas and their interactions. The Zoology element covers all animals whether on land or in water. This degree therefore gives a wide overview of the diversity of animal life and ecosystems on this planet, ranging from the mountains to the deep sea trenches. On this course you will learn how interactions between animals and their environments apply equally to marine, terrestrial and freshwater habitats. You will be introduced to the fundamentals of biology, ecology, and evolution of marine organisms and all animal groups. We also cover more applied aspects such as aquaculture and fisheries, parasitology and immunology.

Placement
This course is available with a Placement Year option where you will study for 1 additional year. The Placement Year is undertaken at the end of the second year and students are away for the whole of the academic year.

The Placement Year provides you with a fantastic opportunity to broaden your horizons and develop valuable skills and contacts through working with a self-sourced organisation relevant to your degree subject. The minimum period in placement (at one or more locations) is seven calendar months; more usually you would spend 10-12 months with a placement provider. You would normally start sometime in the period June to September of your second year and finish between June and September the following year. Placements can be UK-based or overseas and you will work with staff to plan and finalise the placement arrangements.