University of Exeter United Kingdom

MSci Marine Biology

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 MSci Marine Biology at the University of Exeter offers you a comprehensive exploration of marine organisms and the ecosystems they inhabit, preparing you for a career dedicated to understanding and protecting our oceans. You will delve into the biology of the marine environment, developing core knowledge of biological and ecological principles, alongside essential fieldwork techniques. This programme is ideal if you are passionate about marine life and eager to contribute to conservation efforts, offering a deep dive into subjects like ecology, evolution, and marine vertebrate biology.

This full-time, four-year undergraduate degree is studied on campus, immersing you in hands-on learning through practical fieldwork and laboratory sessions each year. You will develop analytical skills in biological data analysis and gain practical research experience, culminating in a significant independent research project in your final year. You will graduate with the expertise and practical skills to pursue diverse career paths in marine conservation, environmental consultancy, research, and beyond, equipped to address pressing global challenges like climate change and overexploitation.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSci Marine Biology program provides a comprehensive foundation in marine ecosystems, ecology, and conservation. Across its years, students will explore topics ranging from fundamental ecological principles and animal diversity to specialized areas like marine vertebrate biology, monitoring, and advanced research methodologies. The curriculum emphasizes practical application through extensive field courses in diverse global locations, culminating in a significant research project and specialized modules in the final year.

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 Compulsory
South West Field Course 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 Year 3

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 Compulsory
Literature Review in Evolution and Ecology 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

4 Final year

Academic Research Project Compulsory
Global Challenges Field Course (MSci) Compulsory
Rewilding the United Kingdom Compulsory
Literature Review in the Life Sciences Compulsory
Applied Data Analysis Compulsory

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
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 168,692.00

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

Agrochemical & Seed IndustryBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesCreative & ContentCrop Production & FarmingDefense & Military SecurityFisheries & AquacultureHigher Education & UniversitiesPerformance & Growth MarketingSupply Chain & Freight ManagementTax & Legal Compliance

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon

Amgen

AstraZeneca

Deloitte

Environment Agency

GSK

Natural England

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Why Study MSci 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 MSci Marine Biology at University of Exeter

Can I work while studying?

As an international student enrolled in this degree program, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English language requirements include a Duolingo overall score of 120, TOEFL overall score of 90, or IELTS overall score of 6.5. Make sure to meet the specific sub-scores for each test to be eligible.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Career paths include marine biologist, environmental consultant, conservation officer, research scientist, and wildlife manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

The MSci Marine Biology at the University of Exeter covers marine organisms and ecosystems, alongside fieldwork techniques. It prepares you for a career in marine conservation, equipping you with knowledge in ecology and marine vertebrate biology.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSci Marine Biology program has an intake month in September, allowing you to start your studies at the beginning of the academic year.
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