University of Exeter United Kingdom

BSc Marine Biology

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BSc Marine Biology at the University of Exeter offers you a comprehensive exploration of marine life, from the biology of individual organisms to the complex ecosystems they inhabit. You will delve into critical issues impacting marine environments, such as overexploitation and climate change, developing a deep understanding of ecological principles and conservation science. This undergraduate degree is designed for those passionate about the ocean and eager to acquire the essential skills and practical experience needed to address pressing environmental challenges, preparing you for a vital role in marine science.

This full-time, on-campus degree is studied over three years, integrating theoretical knowledge with extensive fieldwork and laboratory techniques. You will engage with compulsory modules in ecology, marine biology, and animal diversity, alongside optional subjects allowing you to specialise. Your learning experience will include practical fieldwork, data analysis, and in your final year, a significant independent research project. You will graduate with the analytical skills and practical experience sought after in marine conservation, environmental consultancy, and scientific research roles worldwide.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc Marine Biology program provides a comprehensive foundation in marine ecosystems, animal diversity, and ecological principles. Students will engage in fieldwork, data analysis, and research projects, exploring topics from marine vertebrate biology to conservation science. The curriculum offers opportunities for specialization through optional modules and includes options for professional placements or study abroad experiences.

1 Year 1

Ecology and Conservation Compulsory
Marine Biology Compulsory
Animal Diversity Compulsory

2 Year 2

Analysis of Biological Data Compulsory
Biosciences Penryn Virtual Field Course [See note a above] Compulsory
South West Field Course [See note a above] Compulsory
Biology and Ecology of Marine Vertebrates Compulsory
Marine Monitoring Compulsory
Population and Community Ecology Optional
Wildlife Disease Optional
Introduction to Ecological Consultancy Optional
Evolutionary Ecology Optional
Conservation Science Optional
Behavioural Ecology Optional
Wildlife Exploitation Optional
Adaptations to Life on Earth Optional
GIS for Wildlife Mapping Optional

3 with Professional Placement

Professional Placement Compulsory

4 with Study Abroad

One Year Study Abroad Compulsory

5 Final year

Research Project Compulsory
Ecology, Behaviour, and Conservation in Wild Places: The forests and oceans of Yukon and Alaska Compulsory
Azores Field Course Compulsory
Northern Spain Field Course Compulsory
Tropical Biodiversity and Conservation: Costa Rica Field Course Compulsory
Global Research Skills Virtual Field Course [See note b above] Compulsory
Literature Review in Evolution and Ecology [See note b above] Compulsory
Preparing to Graduate Compulsory
Marine Vertebrate Conservation Optional
Living in Groups Optional
Literature Review in Evolution and Ecology Optional
Symbiosis in Marine Systems Optional
Sensory Ecology Optional
Science in Society Optional
Animal Life Histories Optional
Ecological Responses to Climate Change Optional
Evolutionary Biology of Health and Disease Optional
Animal Migration Optional
Animal Cognition Optional
Ocean Management and Conservation Optional
Major Transitions in Evolutionary History Optional
Global Research Skills Virtual Field Course Optional
The Genome: Applications, Evolution and Ecology Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 126,519.00

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

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on Penryn Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingAccreditation & Assessment ServicesBrand ManagementCreative Production & Project ManagementDrug Discovery & ResearchEconomic Research & PolicyEdTech & E-LearningLive Events & ConcertsPublic Health & EpidemiologyRehabilitation & Physiotherapy

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon

Amgen

AstraZeneca

Deloitte

Environment Agency

GSK

Natural England

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Why Study BSc Marine Biology at University of Exeter

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Exeter 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 Biology at University of Exeter

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for degree-level studies.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can submit scores from tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific minimum scores are needed for each test, such as an overall score of 120 for Duolingo.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as marine biologists, environmental consultants, research scientists, conservation officers, and ecologists.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program provides a deep exploration of marine biology and ecological principles. You will engage in critical issues like climate change and conservation science through both theoretical learning and practical fieldwork.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc Marine Biology program at the University of Exeter has an intake in September each year. It's a full-time, three-year course focusing on marine life and ecosystems.
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