Marine Biology MSci
Bangor , United Kingdom
Marine Biology MSci
Prifysgol Bangor University
Marine Biology
Marine Biology MSci at Bangor University — Program Overview
The Marine Biology MSci at Bangor University is a four-year integrated masters degree that allows you to explore the fundamental aspects of the biology of marine life, their sustainability, and conduct advanced research and fieldwork. Marine Biology has been taught at Bangor for nearly 100 years, and the School of Ocean Sciences encompasses the study of all aspects of the global marine environment, from estuaries and coasts to the deep ocean.
During the first three years, you follow the same degree course structure as the Marine Biology BSc, building a strong foundation in marine ecology, taxonomy, physiology, and conservation. In the fourth year, you specialise and carry out a substantial research project, working within a staff member's research group to gain valuable experience in a research environment.
Bangor's unique location on the North Wales coast, situated between the mountains of Snowdonia and the Menai Strait, provides unrivalled access to diverse marine habitats for experimental and field-based work. The university's facilities include a fully equipped sea-going research vessel and dedicated marine laboratories, making this one of the most distinctive marine biology programs in the United Kingdom.
Key Program Highlights
- Nearly 100 years of heritage in marine biology teaching and research at the School of Ocean Sciences
- Access to a fully equipped sea-going research vessel and dedicated marine laboratories for hands-on learning
- Unique coastal location between Snowdonia and the Menai Strait offering diverse marine habitats for fieldwork
- Substantial fourth-year independent research project embedded within an active research group
Curriculum and Modules
The Marine Biology MSci curriculum is structured across four years, progressing from foundational marine science principles to advanced specialised research. Modules blend theoretical learning with extensive practical, laboratory, and field-based experiences across diverse marine environments.
Marine Biology Practical
20 creditsIntroduces field science, laboratory science, and communicating science, covering dissection, microscopy, experimental design, species identification, data collection, and data analysis techniques used by marine biologists.
Fundamentals of Oceanography
20 creditsProvides a foundational understanding of the physical and chemical processes of the ocean and their link to marine biology, covering currents, tides, waves, and biogeochemical cycles.
Marine Vertebrates and Invertebrates
20 creditsCovers the taxonomy, body forms, physiology, and life histories of marine organisms ranging from invertebrates to elasmobranchs, fish, marine reptiles, cetaceans, pinnipeds, and marine birds.
Marine Ecology and Conservation
20 creditsExamines ecological principles in marine environments, population dynamics, community ecology, biodiversity assessment, and the science underpinning marine conservation strategies.
Perspectives in Marine Science
20 creditsA masters-level module that broadens your knowledge base as an MSci student beyond your individual research project, exploring current themes and debates across the marine sciences.
MSci Research Project and Dissertation
60 creditsA substantial fourth-year independent research project conducted within a staff member's research group, including risk assessment, ethics review, literature review, data collection, analysis, and dissertation writing.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
The Marine Biology MSci welcomes applicants with a strong interest in the biological sciences and a passion for understanding marine ecosystems. Entry requirements are designed to ensure you have the academic foundation needed to succeed in this rigorous integrated masters program. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on your specific qualifications and eligibility.
Academic Requirements
- A-LevelsMust include 2 science subjects (Biology, Physics, Maths, Chemistry, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science/Studies, Economics, or Psychology)
- Scottish HighersMinimum of 5 Scottish Highers; some subject-specific grades or Advanced Highers may be required
- T Level QualificationsAccepted on a case-by-case basis
- International BaccalaureateContact Uni4Edu for specific IB requirements and equivalencies
- International QualificationsEquivalent qualifications from international education systems are considered; contact Uni4Edu for country-specific guidance
English Language Requirements
- IELTSMinimum overall score of 6.0 with no element below 5.5 (contact Uni4Edu to confirm current requirements)
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for accepted score and component requirements
- Other TestsOther recognised English language qualifications may be accepted; contact Uni4Edu for details
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Bangor University is committed to supporting students financially, with bursaries and scholarships worth over GBP 1,000,000 available for new and returning students each year. International students may be eligible for several funding opportunities to help manage the cost of their studies. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on scholarship eligibility and applications.
Bangor University International Scholarship
Up to GBP 3,000 (postgraduate)A partial funding scholarship available to international students enrolling in postgraduate programmes. All international applicants are automatically considered based on course choice, academic performance, personal statement, and relevant experience.
Bangor University Merit Scholarship
Up to GBP 10,000A competitive scholarship awarded to both undergraduate and postgraduate students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement. This scholarship recognises high-performing applicants across all disciplines.
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 Marine Biology MSci provides an ideal preparation for careers in research, conservation, marine resource management, and beyond. The fourth-year research project gives you direct experience of working in a research environment, preparing you for doctoral study or professional roles in the marine sciences sector.
Potential Career Paths
Example Employers of Graduates
Rankings and Recognition
Bangor University is a well-established research institution founded in 1884, consistently recognised in global and national university rankings. The university's marine and environmental science programs benefit from over a century of teaching heritage and strong research output, with 85% of research rated as world-leading or internationally excellent in the REF2021.
| 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 |
| Biological Sciences | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 650 |
| Ocean Sciences (REF2021) | Research Excellence Framework | 85% World-Leading or Internationally Excellent |
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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