TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology

Explore marine life from coast to deep sea with a globally respected degree. Study organisms from microbes to vertebrates, understand ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation, and examine human and climate impacts on ocean life.

Our typical offer

120 UCAS points

Places still available

Contact our Clearing hotline to discuss your options and secure your place this September

Learn from the best

We’re at the forefront of research into how we can preserve marine ecosystems and conserve marine biodiversity as we confront pressing ecological challenges.

Learn by the sea from day one

You'll gain hands-on experience from the very start, exploring marine life from the beach to our research vessels and state-of-the-art labs at the Marine Station.

Facing global challenges 

Develop skills that will enable you to conserve marine life, find solutions for climate change and habitat loss, and understand the biodiversity in marine habitats. 

About

Our city's seafront location hosts one of the highest concentrations of marine scientists in Europe with links to internationally renowned research institutions, so you won't just be studying a degree in Marine Biology, you'll be joining a hub of activity for the study of marine life.


Professor Richard Thompson OBE FRS
Professor Richard Thompson OBE FRS
Richard is a world-leading marine scientist and is at the forefront of pioneering research into the causes and effects of marine litter.
Students crouched down on the shoreline looking through the seaweed.

This course is for you if...

you're passionate about exploring marine biodiversity and ecosystems
Planet earth with arrows around
you want hands-on experience in coastal and marine habitats, in the lab and the field
Hand holding molecular structure
you are passionate about understanding and finding solutions to the challenges facing marine ecosystems
Ocean pollution - bottle and dead fish in sea
you want to develop the practical, intellectual and scientific skills to become a practicing marine ecologist
Ticklist depicting goal setting for graduates

Details

Year 1

In your first year, you’ll be introduced to marine biology, ecology and key biological themes, with topics from biodiversity and ecosystems to evolution and animal behaviour. Via lectures, small group tutorials, lab and fieldwork, you’ll begin to acquire skills that will boost your employability and help your career development. You’ll benefit from hands-on experience on the Devon coastline exposing you to different marine organisms and developing your scientific skills.
Exploring rocky shores on the South Devon coast

Core modules

BIOL131
Cells: The Building Blocks of Life 20 credits

The cell is the basic building block of life. This module introduces you to the structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and the cell biology that allow different cells to do different things including some highly specialised cells of multicellular organisms. The module will then focus on the molecular basis that underlies cell function introducing you to the metabolic pathways and molecules that allow cells to work.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MBIO120
Introduction to Marine Biology 20 credits

This module will introduce students to marine biology covering aspects such as marine ecosystems, organisms and oceanography. This will also start to develop a range of core skills and confidence in effective written communication, information technology (including use of peer-reviewed literature), and data handling skills. It will also start to develop field and id skills and taxonomy skills and safe fieldwork practices.

100% Coursework

MBIO123
Marine Biology Field Course 20 credits

This module develops core skills in effective oral and written communication and provides a toolbox of essential material on numeracy and statistics to address quantitative questions in Marine Biology. During an intensive field course, you will immerse yourself in practical aspects of marine biology, asking questions based on observations and then formulating appropriate hypotheses that can then be tested.

75% Coursework

25% Tests

MBIO161
Evolution and Behaviour 20 credits

Covers the principles underpinning evolution with a special focus on animal behaviour as adaptive traits. Module covers concepts of the genetic basis of inheritance, population genetics, selection, adaptation, function, fitness and speciation. We will use key examples and practical classes to illustrate key ideas and consider the development of some of the ideas in a historical context.

50% Examinations

50% Tests

MBIO162
Biodiversity 20 credits

This module introduces the scientific study of biodiversity. Starting with the question what is biodiversity? students go on to explore where it is, how it is distributed across the Earth, and how we value it. This leads to a discussion of how biodiversity is threatened and how we conserve it. Embedded in this big picture is an introduction to the biology of some key taxa that characterise biodiversity.

50% Practicals

50% Examinations

OS102
Physical and Chemical Processes of the Ocean 20 credits

This module provides an introduction to the main physical and chemical processes occurring in the worlds oceans and a foundation in key aspects of underpinning science and mathematics.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

Year 2

In your second year, you’ll sharpen your practical skills on the South Devon coastline, just minutes away. We’ll introduce you to methods for collecting, handling and analysing scientific data, understanding ecological theories, applying these to shallow water marine habitats, and getting to grips with the major threats faced by aquatic habitats worldwide. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of what shapes marine and coastal biodiversity through a residential field course, currently held in South Africa.
2 people on a beach

Core modules

BIOL214
Ecology 20 credits

An understanding of basic concepts is needed to solve ecological problems. This module explores key concepts in ecology at the levels of individuals, populations and communities. The concepts are supported with examples taken from terrestrial and aquatic systems, and provide a useful insight into the search for general theories in ecology.

50% Examinations

30% Coursework

20% Tests

MBIO213
Coastal Biodiversity and Ecology Field Course 20 credits

100% Coursework

MBIO217
Ecology of Shallow Water Marine Habitats 20 credits

Shallow water marine habitats represent some of the most diverse and productive habitats on earth. This module provides an overview of the key factors influencing their ecology and will also consider the biology of the organisms therein, the scientific study of shallow water habitats and the analysis, evaluation and communication of marine ecological data.

60% Examinations

40% Coursework

MBIO229
Methods in Marine Biology, Coastal Ecology and Oceanography 20 credits

Provides the core skills and techniques to equip students to perform field studies in Marine Biology, Coastal Ecology and Oceanography. Introduces appropriate methodologies for the collection, handling and analysis of data; the scientific principles underlying experimental design and the effective communication of scientific information.

100% Coursework

Optional modules

BIOL204
Principles of Conservation Biology 20 credits

Successful conservation is dependent on a thorough grasp of fundamental biological principles. The conceptual aspects of population, molecular, & evolutionary ecology which are central to understanding the dynamics of, and future threats to, extant populations of organisms are reviewed.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MBIO220
Applied Aquatic Biology 20 credits

This module introduces the main effects that humans have on key freshwater and marine ecosystems throughout the globe, as well as strategies for the monitoring, conservation and sustainable use of these systems.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MBIO222
Ecophysiology of Marine Animals 20 credits

This module will develop a detailed understanding of how marine organisms work within an ecological and evolutionary context.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MBIO228
Biology of Marine Organisms 20 credits

This module will provide an introduction to fundamental aspects of the biology of marine organisms. Particular attention is paid to the diversity of form and function within key groups of marine chloroxygenic organisms and animals and how this allows them to inhabit different marine environments.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

OS207
Scientific Diving 20 credits

This module allows suitably qualified students (HSE SCUBA or equivalent) to develop industry and research-relevant skills in measurement and monitoring in the underwater environment using professional SCUBA and related techniques. These will then be applied in a multi-disciplinary context to the planning, execution, analysis and reporting of a field-based sampling activity.

100% Coursework

Optional placement year

During your optional third year, you’ll have the opportunity to arrange a work placement, for a six or 12-month period. In this way you’ll be applying the skills you've learned in a professional environment, gaining invaluable experience while making a host of contacts – useful when it comes to finding your first job.
Fieldwork taking samples from the rivers on Dartmoor.

Core modules

BPIE336
Marine Biology related Placement 0 credits

A 48-week period of professional training spent as the third year of a sandwich programme undertaking an approved placement with a suitable company. This provides an opportunity for the student to gain relevant industrial experience to consolidate the first two stages of study and to prepare for the final stage and employment after graduation.

Final year

Your final year of study allows you to focus on your chosen areas of interest, building your own specialisms and skills. You’ll conduct an extensive personal research project, applying the skills and methods you've learned. You’ll also choose from a range of modules that are driven by the research interests of our staff, again giving you the opportunity to specialise and tailor your work towards your career goals, whilst studying at the cutting edge of the field.
Marine Biology: two female students conducting research in rock pools on the beach

Core modules

MBIO327
Marine Ecology 20 credits

This module considers the processes and mechanisms that affect the development and structure of marine communities through a discussion of the current evidence base, recent concepts and theories relating to multiple life histories stages of marine species from around the globe and experimental testing of behavioural processes. This will be followed by an investigation of the nature and significance of key processes in structuring marine communities.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

PROJ302
SoBMS Project 40 credits

This module provides an opportunity to undertake a research project on an individually developed topic and experience the entire process of scholarly research: from problem formulation, through the design and execution of an investigation, analysis of results and presentation of outcomes. It will develop skills in independent working and self-awareness in relation to personal, professional and academic development.

75% Coursework

25% Practicals

Optional modules

BIOL308
Applied Conservation Biology 20 credits

Focuses on application of biological theory to successfully managing populations in wild and captive environments. The emphasis is on how theory feeds into and informs working practice. Along with advancing their theoretical knowledge, students develop knowledge of the major approaches, analytical tools, techniques and software that individuals working in the public and private conservation sectors apply in practice.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL310
Global Change Biology 20 credits

This module provides the student with an in-depth overview of the likely consequences of climate change for plant and animal species biology and distribution over the coming century. From this starting point we will show how an understanding of climate change biology is vital for conservation theory and practice over coming decades.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

MBIO317
Behavioural Ecology 20 credits

This module examines the theory underpinning key conceptual models in behavioural ecology (e.g. optimal foraging, ideal free distribution, game theory). These models will be critically discussed in relation to empirical studies.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

MBIO324
Speciation and Diversity 20 credits

This module deals with the nature, generation and significance of biological diversity through a discussion of recent species concepts and mechanisms of speciation in a range of organisms, with emphasis on the evolutionary processes at work. This is followed by an investigation of the nature and significance of biological diversity; how it is assessed, and how it is distributed.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

MBIO339
Ecology and Conservation of Marine Vertebrates 20 credits

Marine vertebrates are vulnerable to depletion through over fishing, industrial development, pollution and habitat degradation. This module will examine the ecology of these animals in their natural environments and explore methods for surveying, monitoring and managing populations and species. There is a strong emphasis on current research and hot topics with numerous case studies used throughout the module.

60% Coursework

40% Examinations

MBIO363
Fish and Fisheries 20 credits

This module explores the biology of fishes and its application to the science of fisheries management. There is a focus on seminal works and recent advances in the primary literature.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MBIO364
Conservation Physiology 20 credits

This module introduces learners to this emerging field of conservation through a lecture-discussion based format. This module explores fundamental physiology principles and approaches that have been used to inform the conservation of marine species and ecosystems challenged by natural and anthropogenic stressors.

60% Examinations

40% Coursework

OS307
Marine Conservation Policy and Planning 20 credits

This module explores issues surrounding the maintenance of a healthy marine environment. It will develop an understanding of marine governance, including policy frameworks and agencies responsible for implementing marine conservation strategy. Topics include the range of measures and approaches for successful marine conservation and the importance of taking holistic approaches to management, including policy and planning

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BIOL311
Ecotoxicology 20 credits

This module provides a detailed analysis of the concepts and principles of ecotoxicology, with an emphasis on evaluation of ecotoxicological techniques and methods for assessment of impacts of pollutants on the aquatic environment.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

 
 
 
 
 
 

Other marine biology courses

We offer a suite of Marine Biology degrees that vary in focus, giving you the opportunity to tailor your degree to your passions.
All three courses share a common first year and we allow you the flexibility to transfer onto one of the other specialist BSc courses up until the end of Year 1.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology
Includes marine biology, ecotoxicology and conservation physiology modules. Fieldtrips have included the UK and Portugal.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology
Includes specialist modules in marine ecology, conservation and applied aquatics. Fieldtrips have included the UK and South Africa.
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography
Includes specialist ocean processes, and waves tides and coastal dynamics modules. Fieldtrips have included the UK and Sweden.

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

Benefit from fieldwork, near and far

At ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú, you’ll go beyond the classroom, applying theory to real-world research through local and international field trips.
From the diverse coastline of the South West to global destinations, you'll explore marine ecosystems firsthand, gaining invaluable experience that enhances both your degree and career prospects.
Students on fieldwork
On watch, recording any animals seen (marine mammals, birds, jellyfish...), boats, and litter
Exploring rocky shores on the South Devon coast
The skills you gain from fieldwork are highly sought after by employers and can include:
  • data and sample collection and analysis in varied marine habitats
  • experience using scientific equipment and technology
  • scientific writing and reporting, preparing you for careers in research and conservation
  • teamwork in challenging and dynamic field conditions
  • problem-solving in real-world ecological research
"One of the things we try and emphasise is the catchment level approach and the fact that there are linkages between what happens up here (on Dartmoor) and what happens in the marine environment."
 
 

The years I spent at the University were some of the best of my life, both personally and ‘professionally’. The quality and diversity of the content taught is really good, but it’s the people that have made my experience incredible. I learnt from some of the best researchers in the field, passionate about their work and teaching, always there to push and encourage you to follow your passion and try new things, as well as from the other equally passionate students with whom I made some of the strongest friendships to date.

Louise, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology graduate

Graduate Louise sailing.
 
 
 

Facilities to support your learning

We have a selection of cutting edge facilities to enhance your experience and provide the best learning environment
Situated on the shores of ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú Sound as part of our waterfront campus, the Marine Station offers labs and classrooms extending out into the natural environment. It is also the base for our research vessels and a centre of excellence for diving.
Marine Station

I learnt so much on my course, everything from practical skills conducting ecological surveys in the field, taxonomic knowledge of marine organisms through to data analysis and report writing. I also had the opportunity to learn skills in commercial diving, power boating, first aid and sea survival, which I wouldn’t have had the chance to undertake had I chosen to study my undergraduate degree at another university.

Amy, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology graduate
Amy Cartwright on the scallop farm
 
 
 
 
 

Expand your horizons with a research expedition

Research Expeditions offer the chance to assist our expert researchers in the field, both locally and internationally.
Unlike course-based field trips, these expeditions span diverse disciplines, allowing students to choose a project that aligns with their interests while gaining hands-on research experience and valuable skills.
Previously students have ...
  • taken part in cetacean surveys aboard the University yacht, Take The Helm, between ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú and the Isles of Scilly
  • carried out assessments of south west UK fish nurseries, catching, identifying and measuring juvenile fish in a number of key estuary sites
  • spent two-weeks on a field course in North Sulawesi (Bunaken and Bangka islands) where they learned about the biodiversity of coral reefs and how to monitor them
  • enjoyed a week in the Azores, colecting data to assess the relative abundance of different colour forms of Clouded Yellow butterflies.

I felt very fortunate to have the opportunity to be taught about coral reefs by experts while directly observing the reef. I don't think many learning experiences can top that.

Hop aboard the University's own yacht, Take the Helm, and discover what it's like to take part in a four-day marine mammal survey. 
Our coast surveys perform an important function, gathering much needed data to help us understand thethreats
Marine science students on a research expedition netting fish.
Fish netting in the UK.
Marine biology students snorkelling in indonesia.
Diving in Indonesia.
Marine science students on a research expedition to teh Azores
Research expedition to the Azores.
 
 

Gain a professional diving qualification alongside your studies

Study at the only University in the UK offering you the opportunity to gain the HSE Professional SCUBA certification alongside your degree.
Explore and monitor underwater ecosystems as you learn to conduct underwater surveys, assess marine biodiversity, and gain industry-recognised diving qualifications to enhance your career prospects.
The course is an intensive four week full-time programme. Practical tasks are undertaken by all candidates, day and night, including preparation of project plans and risk assessments. Please note that places on the course are offered subject to availability and there are some costs to incur.
HSE SCUBA Diving Course
Dive training in a quarry.
 
 

Keep up to date 

Follow us to get a greater insight into what you might experience on a marine biology degree at ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú.
i  
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Marine Biology students in the Davy Labs
 
 
 

Learn from experts

Our links with world renowned research institutions strengthen our community and research opportunities.
We have strong links with institutions including:
  • .

The good thing about the University’s location is that ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú is home to a number of marine organisations (the Marine Biological Association, ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú Marine Laboratory, Shark Trust, etc.), which provide countless opportunities for volunteering, collaborations and networking. For me, two separate bouts of volunteering at the MBA led to further research positions overseas through connections and referrals.

Graduate, Grace
Dr Robert Puschendorf Associate Professor in Conservation Biology


Associate Professor in Conservation Biology

Programme lead
Dr Miriam Reverter Lecturer in Marine Biology


Lecturer in Marine Biology

Dr Pete Cotton Associate Professor in Ecology


Associate Professor in Ecology

Show all
 
 
 

Enrich your studies – join the Marine Biology Society (MBS)

The ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú Marine Biology Society (MBS) are involved in anything and everything Marine Biology or Ocean Science. The committee, and members, are passionate about our oceans and the wonderful marine world we find beneath the surface. 
Throughout the year, with your membership, you will have access to the exclusive events, activities and fun which the MBS offers, including; socials, academic talks from many internal and external speakers, documentary and film screenings, rock pooling sessions, photography competitions, trips, placement opportunity talks ... and much, much more.
Marine Biology Society logo
 
 
 

Life in ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú

¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student
"Come down to ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú and see the University – and especially the Marine Station. Speak to the subject ambassadors and ask as many questions as you like. We love to talk about our degree. And then, take a walk around ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú, especially the Hoe. This is a city that has everything within walking distance. It’s beautiful and has so many opportunities for volunteering and work experience within the marine biology field."
Graduate Ana, has remained in ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú and is now a postgraduate student studying ResM Marine Sciences  
Ana water sampling in Moorea

Careers

¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú makes you more passionate about the ocean and studying here kept me on the right path. I wanted to be by the ocean, I wanted to dive, I wanted to surf and I wanted to study with the best marine biologists in the country. ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú was fantastic for me and I will always love it.

Rory Moore, Head of Conservation at the

Rory Moore - Hero
 
 
As a marine biology and coastal ecology student your career options are as expansive as the oceans you study. Whether you want to become a research scientist or work in the field of conservation, we’ll assist you throughout your degree to ensure that by the time you graduate you’ll be en-route to the career of your choice.
This is a competitive but fascinating and dynamic field and our graduates can be found all over the world ...
  • In research institutions
  • Working with charities and NGOs
  • Monitoring the environment and fisheries
  • Promoting important marine conservation messages
  • Providing commercial environmental or ecological consultancy services
  • Influencing government policies through research and campaigning
  • Inspiring and educating the scientists and conservationists of tomorrow
  • Communicating science through scientific journalism
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
 

Why you should do a placement

While we can equip you with as much hands-on experience and opportunity to put theory into practice as possible, a placement can provide you with that little bit extra to make you stand out from the crowd. 
Our students have taken part in placements all over the world; they have helped to further research, worked on specialist projects, protected fragile marine environments and developed HSE diving skills. Some have used the experience to help them decide on a career path and many been offered graduate employment with their placement organisations. 
Where will your work placement take you...?
Marine Biology student on an experimental field course to the Algarve, Portugal.

I think that the human aspect of a placement year, which allows you to grow and mature, is just as important as the professional skills you acquire. Get out there, learn about marine biology topics, learn about yourself, and come back to uni with a better idea of who you are and where you are heading!

Louise spent three months in South Africa in a marine conservation genetics laboratory and four months in Chile in a subtidal ecology laboratory. 

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about  fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
To be confirmed
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
To be confirmed
 

Tuition fee price changes

Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

TOTUS student scholarship

With thanks to TOTUS Engineering, we are able to provide one scholarship a year to a student who is intending to study one of our undergraduate Biological Science, Marine Biology or Ocean Science degrees and fulfils at least one of the required criteria.
The recipient will receive £500 per year for the three years of their undergraduate course (excluding placement year) to help with their studies.
Find out more and apply
At the beginning of their second year, Marine Biology students go on an experimental field course to Portugal, resized
 
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

Places still available

Contact our Clearing hotline to discuss your options and secure your place this September
0333 241 6929
Three students sitting on a wall at the Barbican eating fish and chips
 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
120 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE

All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) English and Mathematics at grade C / 4 or above.

A levels

120 points from a minimum of 3 A levels, including Biology and preferably further relevant Science subjects. Qualifying relevant science subjects are: Applied Science, Applied Marine Science, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. General Studies is excluded. Points can include a relevant Extended Project (EPQ) but must include 3 A levels.

BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/ QCF Extended Diploma

A typical offer would be DDM, depending on the BTEC and units studied. Please include details of units in your UCAS application or contact Admissions for further advice.
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

All Access courses

Science related Access Diplomas are considered. Must include a minimum 15 credits in biology units, plus 15 credits at maths, physics, chemistry, environmental science/studies, applied science, geography, geology or technology or psychology. Typically, we would require 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction and 15 Level 3 credits at Merit.

T level

Merit in any subject.

International Baccalaureate

30-36 overall, to include Higher Level Biology and preferably further relevant Science subjects. Qualifying relevant Science subjects are: Chemistry, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics and Psychology. English and Maths are accepted within as GCSE equivalent at Higher Level Grade 4 or Standard Level Grade 5.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
UCAS course code
C160
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú

Other routes into this course

The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

 

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
 
Our typical offer
120 UCAS points
 
 

BSearch entry requirements for your country

English language requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
 
UCAS course code
C160
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú

Other routes to this course

The offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk
 
 
 

Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú.
 
Book your place
Man sitting outside with surrounded by friends
 
 
 
*These are the latest results from the National Student Survey. Please note that the data published on is updated annually in September.