Marine Biology
Bangor , United Kingdom
Master of Science in Marine Biology
Prifysgol Bangor University
Marine Biology
MSc Marine Biology at Bangor University: Program Overview
The MSc Marine Biology at Bangor University is a full-time one-year course consisting of nine months of taught modules and a three-month research project, assessed through continuous assessment. The program provides advanced theoretical and practical training in marine biology, delivered by the School of Ocean Sciences, which has over 50 years of experience in postgraduate teaching.
Bangor's School of Ocean Sciences houses 30 academics teaching and researching across marine biology, biogeochemistry, physical oceanography, and geological oceanography, supported by 24 technical and administrative staff. Teaching is provided in-house by school academic staff, with additional contributions from the School of Biological Sciences, the National Museum of Wales, and guest lecturers.
The university's unique location between the mountains of Snowdonia and the Menai Strait offers unrivalled access to diverse marine environments, from estuaries and coasts to the deep ocean. Marine biology has been taught at Bangor for nearly 100 years, and the school's facilities include a fully equipped sea-going research vessel.
Key Program Highlights
- Nearly 100 years of marine biology teaching heritage with over 50 years of postgraduate-level instruction
- Access to a fully equipped sea-going research vessel and dedicated postgraduate suite
- Unique coastal location between Snowdonia National Park and the Menai Strait for unparalleled fieldwork opportunities
- Part of a suite of five focused MSc courses in marine science, enabling cross-disciplinary learning
Curriculum and Modules
The MSc Marine Biology curriculum is delivered through a series of compulsory modules encompassing theory, practical work, private study, and practical research. The program addresses major themes in marine biology and culminates in an independent research project during the final three months. Module listings are for guidance purposes and may be subject to change.
Explores ecological principles governing marine ecosystems, species interactions, biodiversity patterns, and conservation strategies for protecting marine habitats and species.
Examines the biology of commercially important fish species, sustainable fisheries management practices, and modern aquaculture techniques and their environmental implications.
Covers the diversity, physiology, ecology, and evolutionary biology of marine invertebrates, with practical identification skills and laboratory-based investigations.
Provides training in experimental design, statistical analysis, scientific writing, and the use of specialised software for analysing biological and ecological data.
Introduces the applications of biotechnology in marine science, including molecular techniques, genomics, and the use of marine organisms for pharmaceutical and industrial purposes.
Elective Module Options
Admission Requirements
The MSc Marine Biology program welcomes applicants with a strong foundation in biological sciences. Candidates from other science disciplines or with relevant professional experience are also encouraged to apply through Uni4Edu, provided they can demonstrate motivation and relevant experience in their personal statement and CV.
Academic Requirements
- Minimum Degree Classification2:2 (Lower Second Class) undergraduate Honours degree in a Biological Science
- Preferred SubjectsBiology, Botany, Zoology, Ecology, or Marine Biology
- Alternative QualificationsApplicants from other science subject areas with relevant employment experience may be considered
- Mature ApplicantsApplicants aged 25+ without formal qualifications but with suitable relevant experience may be considered
- Preferred Degree Classification2:1 (Upper Second Class) Honours degree is normally expected for admission
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall 6.5, with no element below 6.0
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for current accepted scores
- PTE AcademicContact Uni4Edu for current accepted scores
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Bangor University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to help international postgraduate students fund their studies. Bursaries and scholarships worth over GBP 1,000,000 are available collectively for new and returning students. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on funding opportunities relevant to your profile.
Bangor University International Scholarship
Up to GBP 3,000 for postgraduate studentsAvailable for all international postgraduate taught courses. No separate application is required; all international applicants are automatically considered based on criteria including academic performance, personal statement, and references.
Bangor Merit Scholarship
Up to GBP 10,000Awarded to outstanding students demonstrating exceptional academic achievement. Available for both undergraduate and postgraduate recipients based on merit and academic excellence.
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme
Full funding (tuition fees, living allowance, and travel costs)Jointly funded by Bangor University and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission for eligible students from Commonwealth countries pursuing taught master's programmes. Covers tuition, living stipend, warm clothing allowance, and visa costs.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MSc Marine Biology program at Bangor University are well-prepared for diverse careers across the public sector, private industry, voluntary organisations, and higher education. The program's combination of advanced theoretical training and hands-on research experience equips you with the analytical and practical skills valued by employers worldwide.
Potential Career Paths
Typical Employers of Graduates
Rankings and Recognition
Bangor University is recognised among the top universities globally and nationally, with particular strengths in environmental and biological sciences. Founded in 1884, the university has over 140 years of academic heritage, and 85% of its research was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021).
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture and Forestry | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 150 |
| Environmental Sciences | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 350 |
| Biology | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 650 |
| Psychology | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 350 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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