Aberystwyth University United Kingdom

BSc Marine and Freshwater Biology with Integrated foundation year.

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on the BSc Marine and Freshwater Biology with Integrated Foundation Year at Aberystwyth University, a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed for those passionate about understanding and protecting aquatic ecosystems. This program is ideal if you are driven to address critical environmental challenges, from biodiversity loss to pollution, and wish to build a career grounded in scientific inquiry and practical conservation. You will explore the intricate relationships within marine and freshwater environments, developing essential skills in sampling techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication, preparing you for impactful roles in a vital field.

This full-time, on-campus course spans four years, beginning with a foundation year to build your core scientific knowledge before progressing through the specialized curriculum. You will gain hands-on experience using research vessels and aquarium systems, engaging in practical fieldwork and laboratory sessions throughout your studies. In your final year, you will undertake a significant research project, potentially including optional field courses in diverse aquatic settings. You will graduate with a strong foundation in aquatic biology, equipped for careers in environmental consultancy, conservation organisations, government agencies, and further postgraduate research.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This integrated foundation year program provides a comprehensive introduction to marine and freshwater biology. The curriculum progresses from foundational biological principles and practical skills in the first year to specialized topics such as cell biology, ecology, genetics, and diversity in the second year. Subsequent years delve into aquatic botany, freshwater and marine biology, research methods, and advanced subjects like fish biology, fisheries, aquaculture, and conservation, culminating in a significant research project.

1 YEAR 1

Communication Skills Compulsory
Molecules and Cells Compulsory
Organisms and the Environment Compulsory
Practical Skills for Biologists Compulsory

2 YEAR 2

Cell Biology Compulsory
Comparative Animal Physiology Compulsory
Ecology and Conservation Compulsory
Genetics, Evolution and Diversity Compulsory
Microbial and Plant Diversity Compulsory
Skills for Wildlife Scientists Compulsory

3 YEAR 3

Aquatic Botany Compulsory
Freshwater Biology Compulsory
Marine Biology Compulsory
Research Methods Compulsory
An Introduction to Landscape Ecology and Geographic Information Systems
Animal Behaviour
Environmental Microbiology and Monitoring
Invertebrate Zoology
Researching Behavioural Ecology
Vertebrate Zoology

4 YEAR 4

Fish Biology, Fisheries and Aquaculture Compulsory
Research Project Compulsory
Behavioural Neurobiology
Freshwater Biology Field Course
Global Biodiversity Conservation
Marine Biology Field Course
Population and Community Ecology
Wildlife Conservation

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

9% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,885.00 USD 29,568.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 29,568.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 29,568.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 29,568.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 115,590.00 USD 118,273.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 689.00 - USD 1,322.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Penglais campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agricultural Research & DevelopmentArchitecture & Urban PlanningDrug Discovery & ResearchFleet Management & OperationsForestry & LoggingGovernment & Regulatory AgenciesHydropower & Alternative RenewablesNuclear EnergyPublic Health & EpidemiologySupply Chain & Commodity Trading

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AECOM

Animal and Plant Health Agency

Environment Agency

GSK

Natural England

Pfizer

RPS

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Why Study BSc Marine and Freshwater Biology with Integrated foundation year. at Aberystwyth University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Aberystwyth University in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc Marine and Freshwater Biology with Integrated foundation year. at Aberystwyth University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For TOEFL, an overall score of 93 with specific subscores is required. The IELTS requirements include a minimum total score of 6.5, and the PTE requires an overall score of 59.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include Marine Biologist, Ecologist, Aquatic Scientist, Conservation Biologist, and Environmental Consultant.

What will I actually study in this course?

This four-year course includes a foundation year and covers practical skills like sampling techniques and data analysis. You'll gain hands-on experience using research vessels and aquarium systems.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc Marine and Freshwater Biology course has an intake in September each year. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your place.
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