Aberystwyth University United Kingdom

BSc Marine and Freshwater Biology (with integrated year in industry)

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

Course Overview

The BSc Marine and Freshwater Biology (with integrated year in industry) at Aberystwyth University offers you a comprehensive understanding of aquatic ecosystems, from the smallest microbes to entire ocean environments. This degree is ideal if you are passionate about conservation, environmental science, and the critical challenges facing marine and freshwater life. You will explore key topics such as ecology, conservation, cell biology, and genetics, gaining essential knowledge to address issues like pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss. Aberystwyth University provides an exceptional setting for this study, with direct access to diverse coastal and inland waters.

This full-time, on-campus undergraduate degree is studied over four years, including a valuable integrated year in industry designed to enhance your practical skills and employability. Your learning journey will involve core modules in subjects like Aquatic Botany, Freshwater Biology, and Marine Biology, alongside research methods and a significant final-year research project. You will also have opportunities to select from a range of optional modules, including field courses and specialized topics. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared for careers in environmental consultancy, conservation organisations, fisheries management, and scientific research.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive study of marine and freshwater ecosystems, covering fundamental biological principles and specialized aquatic topics. Students will explore cell biology, genetics, ecology, and conservation, progressing to detailed modules on aquatic botany, freshwater and marine biology, and research methodologies. The curriculum includes practical field courses and culminates in a significant research project, with an integrated year in industry providing valuable professional experience.

1 YEAR 1

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

2 YEAR 2

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

3 YEAR 3

Integrated Year in Industry

4 YEAR 4

Fish Biology, Fisheries and Aquaculture
Research Project
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 Services & ExtensionArchitecture & Urban PlanningDrug Discovery & ResearchEnvironmental & Sustainability ServicesFleet Management & OperationsHome Health & Long‑Term CareIndustrial & Offshore ConstructionMental Health & CounselingNuclear EnergyPharmacovigilance & Drug Safety

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 year in industry) 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 year in industry) at Aberystwyth University

Can I work while studying?

As a degree student in the UK, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Royal Society of Biology.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need a TOEFL overall score of 93, with specific sub-scores, or an IELTS score of 6.5. Other accepted tests include PTE with a minimum score of 59.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as marine biologists, ecologists, environmental consultants, fisheries scientists, or conservation officers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree offers an integrated understanding of biology and ecology, focusing on the catchment and ocean ecosystems. It is located in Cardigan Bay, providing access to unique marine environments and habitats.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc Marine and Freshwater Biology program has an intake month in September. Students should prepare for their applications ahead of this date.
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