Marine Biology and Oceanography MSci
Bangor , United Kingdom
Marine Biology and Oceanography MSci
Prifysgol Bangor University
Marine Biology & Oceanography
Program Overview: Marine Biology and Oceanography MSci
The Marine Biology and Oceanography MSci at Bangor University is a four-year integrated masters degree that 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, underpinned by a specialised understanding of how marine habitats are shaped by physical and biogeochemical processes.
During the first three years, you follow the same degree structure as the Marine Biology and Oceanography BSc, building a robust foundation in marine science. In Year 4 you carry out a substantial piece of independent research, forming your fourth-year dissertation and preparing you for advanced careers or doctoral study.
Bangor's unique coastal location on the Menai Strait, between Snowdonia and the Irish Sea, provides unparalleled access to diverse marine environments. You will benefit from studying with leading scientists across marine biology, fisheries, marine chemistry, geosciences, and physical oceanography, using facilities including a research ship, supercomputers, and state-of-the-art survey equipment.
Key Program Highlights
- Unique coastal location on the Menai Strait with direct access to the Irish Sea for fieldwork and research
- Substantial Year 4 independent research dissertation providing hands-on experience in a research environment
- Access to a dedicated research vessel, oceanographic moorings, supercomputers, and cutting-edge survey equipment
- Optional Placement Year and International Experience Year pathways available to broaden your skills and horizons
Curriculum & Modules
The MSci program is structured across four years, progressing from foundational marine science modules to advanced specialisation and independent research. Modules span marine biology, physical oceanography, biogeochemistry, and ecological fieldwork, with compulsory and optional pathways allowing you to tailor your studies to your interests.
Marine Vertebrates, Invertebrates and Algae
20 creditsA comprehensive survey of marine life covering taxonomy, body forms, physiology, and life histories from invertebrates through to elasmobranchs, cetaceans, pinnipeds, and marine birds.
Fundamentals of Oceanography
20 creditsProvides a foundational understanding of the physical and chemical processes in the ocean and their links to marine biology, essential for all marine science disciplines.
Tides, Waves and Renewable Energy
20 creditsExplores the fundamental physics behind tides and waves, how they affect currents in the marine environment, and how these phenomena may be exploited as sources of renewable energy.
Marine Conservation and Exploitation
20 creditsIntegrates conservation biology with marine resource management, developing quantitative skills through population modelling, tracking data analysis, and mapping exercises.
Perspectives in Marine Science
20 creditsA Year 4 module broadening your knowledge base beyond your individual research project, exposing you to current themes and emerging topics across the marine sciences.
MSci Research Dissertation
60 creditsA substantial independent research project conducted in Year 4, including a literature review, project plan, risk assessment, and a final dissertation with an associated presentation.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
Entry to the Marine Biology and Oceanography MSci is competitive and requires a strong foundation in the sciences. All applications and inquiries are handled through Uni4Edu, who will guide you through every step of the process.
Academic Requirements
- A-LevelsIncluding 2 science subjects (Biology, Physics, Maths, Chemistry, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science/Studies, Economics, or Psychology). General Studies and Key Skills not accepted.
- BTEC National Extended DiplomaDDM to D*DD in Applied Science or equivalent
- International BaccalaureateIB Diploma including grade H5 in at least one science subject
- Scottish HighersMinimum of 5 Scottish Highers; some subject-specific grades or Advanced Highers may be required
- Access to HEAccess to HE Diploma in Science required (similar subject areas may be considered on a case-by-case basis)
English Language Requirements
- IELTSContact Uni4Edu for current minimum score requirements
- TOEFLContact Uni4Edu for current minimum score requirements
- Other TestsEquivalent English language qualifications are accepted; contact Uni4Edu for details
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Bangor University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support international students. With over GBP 1,000,000 in bursaries and scholarships available annually, there are several opportunities to help fund your studies. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on funding options.
Bangor University International Scholarship
Up to GBP 4,000 (undergraduate level)Available to all international students paying overseas tuition fees. No separate application is required; all eligible applicants are automatically considered when submitting their application through Uni4Edu.
Merit Scholarship
Up to GBP 10,000Awarded to high-achieving students based on academic performance. Available for both undergraduate and postgraduate recipients. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility details and application guidance.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
The four-year MSci program is ideal preparation for a career in research, with the fourth-year dissertation providing direct experience in a research environment. Graduates pursue careers across the public sector, private industry, voluntary organisations, and academia both in the UK and internationally.
Potential Career Roles
Example Employers of Graduates
Rankings & Recognition
Bangor University has a long-standing reputation for excellence in ocean sciences, environmental research, and student satisfaction. The university is recognised in multiple global and national ranking systems, and its research was rated highly in the UK Research Excellence Framework.
| 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 (University Strength) | Bangor University | Top in Wales; Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
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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