University of Exeter United Kingdom

BSc Marine Biology with Professional Placement

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 Biology with Professional Placement at the University of Exeter is your gateway to understanding and protecting the Earth's vital ocean ecosystems. In a world facing unprecedented environmental challenges like climate change and overexploitation, this degree equips you with the scientific knowledge and practical skills to address these critical issues. You will explore the intricate biology of marine organisms, from microscopic plankton to large marine vertebrates, and delve into the complex ecological interactions within diverse marine environments. This programme is ideal for aspiring marine scientists passionate about conservation and research.

This full-time, four-year undergraduate degree is studied on campus, immersing you in both theoretical learning and hands-on experience. Your first year establishes a broad foundation in marine biology and ecological principles, complemented by fieldwork and essential techniques. Subsequent years deepen your understanding through advanced modules, including compulsory field courses and data analysis, with a significant focus on the interaction between organisms and their environments. The dedicated professional placement year offers invaluable real-world experience, preparing you for a career in marine conservation, research, environmental consultancy, or policy.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc Marine Biology with Professional Placement program offers a comprehensive exploration of marine ecosystems, from foundational ecology and animal diversity to specialized topics like marine vertebrate biology and conservation. Students will engage in extensive fieldwork, including virtual and international field courses, alongside a significant professional placement year. The curriculum culminates in a research project and advanced modules covering diverse areas such as evolutionary biology, climate change impacts, and ocean management, preparing graduates for impactful careers in marine science.

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 33,738.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 33,738.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 33,738.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 33,738.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 134,953.00

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

Advertising TechnologyBlockchain & Emerging TechnologiesClinical Trials & DevelopmentData Science & AnalyticsEconomic Research & PolicyEnergy Equipment & ServicesGovernment & Regulatory AgenciesInvestment Management & Asset ManagementMental Health & CounselingWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon

Amgen

AstraZeneca

Deloitte

Environment Agency

GSK

Natural England

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Why Study BSc Marine Biology with Professional Placement 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 with Professional Placement at University of Exeter

Can I work while studying?

As a degree student, you are allowed to 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 English language requirements, you can meet the criteria through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or PTE. Make sure to achieve the specified scores in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include marine conservationist, environmental consultant, marine researcher, policy advisor, and ecologist.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree focuses on understanding ocean ecosystems and addressing environmental challenges like climate change. You will learn about marine organisms and ecological interactions through theoretical learning and hands-on experiences.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc Marine Biology with Professional Placement intake is in September. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your spot.
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