Marine Biology and Oceanography BSc (Hons)
Bangor , United Kingdom
Marine Biology and Oceanography BSc (Hons)
Prifysgol Bangor University
Marine Biology & Oceanography
Program Overview: Marine Biology and Oceanography BSc (Hons)
This interdisciplinary degree at Bangor University provides an in-depth study of the biological, chemical, and physical processes of the oceans, seas, and estuaries. You will explore life in the sea from the smallest bacteria to the largest mammals, gaining a comprehensive understanding of marine ecosystems and the forces that shape them.
Your knowledge will be underpinned by a specialised understanding of how different marine habitats are affected by key physical processes such as currents, tides, waves, and ocean mixing, as well as biogeochemical interactions including the carbon cycle and nutrient recycling between the atmosphere, ocean, and sea floor. Marine Biology has been taught at Bangor for nearly 100 years, giving the program a deep heritage of expertise.
Located on the North Wales coast between the mountains of Snowdonia and the Menai Strait, Bangor offers unrivalled access to the sea and seashore for hands-on fieldwork. You will benefit from facilities including the university's research ship Prince Madog, supercomputers, state-of-the-art survey equipment, and oceanographic moorings for data collection.
Key Program Highlights
- Nearly 100 years of marine biology teaching heritage with world-leading research-active faculty across marine science disciplines
- Access to the research vessel Prince Madog for ship-based field courses, enabling real-world oceanographic sampling and data collection
- Unique coastal location on the Menai Strait providing direct access to diverse marine habitats including estuaries, rocky shores, and open sea
- Optional Placement Year and International Experience Year pathways to broaden your skills and enhance career prospects
Curriculum & Modules
The Marine Biology and Oceanography BSc program combines the study of marine life with physical and chemical oceanography across three years of progressive learning. You will develop practical field skills, laboratory techniques, and analytical competencies through a blend of lectures, practicals, and ship-based fieldwork.
Introduction to Marine Biology
20 creditsA foundational module covering the diversity of marine organisms, basic marine ecology, and an introduction to the structure and function of marine ecosystems from coastal to deep-sea environments.
Introduction to Oceanography
20 creditsAn overview of the physical, chemical, and geological processes that govern the world's oceans, including ocean circulation, water chemistry, and sediment dynamics.
Marine Ecology and Conservation
20 creditsExplores the ecological principles governing marine communities, biodiversity patterns, and current conservation strategies for protecting marine habitats and species.
Ship-Based Field Course
20 creditsA practical module using the university's research vessel Prince Madog, where you will collect oceanographic samples, monitor marine wildlife, and analyse data from real sea-based surveys.
Tides, Waves and Marine Energy
20 creditsExamines the physics of tidal systems, wave dynamics, and ocean mixing processes, with applications to marine renewable energy and coastal engineering.
Research Project (Dissertation)
40 creditsAn independent research project in your final year, allowing you to investigate a marine biology or oceanography topic of your choice under the supervision of an active researcher.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
Bangor University welcomes applications from students worldwide for the Marine Biology and Oceanography BSc program. All applications and inquiries are handled through Uni4Edu, where our advisors can guide you through every step of the process.
Academic Requirements
- A-LevelsTypical offer including 2 science subjects (Biology, Physics, Maths, Chemistry, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science/Studies, Economics, or Psychology). General Studies and Key Skills not accepted.
- International BaccalaureateContact Uni4Edu for current IB requirements and equivalencies for this program.
- T-LevelsAccepted on a case-by-case basis in relevant subject areas.
- BTECAccepted in conjunction with other Level 3 qualifications. Contact Uni4Edu for specific grade requirements.
- International QualificationsEquivalent international qualifications in science subjects are accepted. Contact Uni4Edu for country-specific entry requirements.
English Language Requirements
- IELTSMinimum 6.0 overall (with no element below 5.5). Contact Uni4Edu to confirm the latest requirements.
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for the current minimum TOEFL score accepted for this program.
- Other TestsPTE Academic and other approved English language tests are accepted. Contact Uni4Edu for details.
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Bangor University offers bursaries and scholarships worth over GBP 1,000,000 for new and returning students each year. International students are automatically considered for several scholarship schemes upon application. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on funding your studies.
Bangor University International Scholarship
Up to GBP 4,000 (Year 1)Available to international undergraduate students paying overseas tuition fees. No separate application is required; all eligible applicants are considered automatically based on course choice, academic performance, and personal statement.
Bangor University Merit Scholarship
Up to GBP 10,000Awarded to high-achieving students based on performance in the Entrance Scholarship examination. Open to both UK and international undergraduate applicants demonstrating outstanding academic potential.
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 Marine Biology and Oceanography BSc are well prepared for diverse careers in marine science, environmental management, and related industries. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree equips you with transferable skills in data analysis, fieldwork, and scientific communication that are valued across many sectors.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Bangor University is recognised internationally for its strength in environmental and ocean sciences. With a research heritage spanning over 140 years, the university consistently features in global rankings and is particularly renowned for its marine science programs taught at the School of Ocean Sciences.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture & 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 |
| Ocean Sciences (Institutional Strength) | Bangor University / School of Ocean Sciences | Nearly 100 years of teaching heritage; unique UK coastal research location |
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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