About this course
You'll study all forms of marine life and learn how to solve environmental challenges on this master's in marine biology. You'll work on our research vessels in Southampton, and discover the marine environment in the Galapagos Islands or Thailand. Graduate with the ability to work in research, wildlife management or conservation.
This course is subject to revalidation for 2022 entry.
You'll study biology and ecology within the specific context of marine systems. The course modules will improve your biological sciences, chemistry, physics and mathematics knowledge.
Our unique fieldwork locations will offer you the opportunity to broaden your field research beyond the environments found around the UK.
The facilities are exceptional at Southampton. You can go from classroom or lab to our research vessels within minutes on our Waterfront Campus. Be part of the National Oceanography Centre Southampton (NOCS), one of the largest marine science communities in Europe.
Depending on your grades, you can apply to study abroad at one of our partner universities. There you'll take specialist modules and projects that are not available in the UK.
With this course, you can:
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get the opportunity to conduct supervised original research
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examine the ecology of marine organisms, including feeding, reproduction, behaviour and migrations
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discover a range of topics from hydrothermal vents to coastal lagoons
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get extensive practical laboratory skills training at all levels
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take part in relevant field experience and training throughout the programme
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choose from a variety of semester abroad study opportunities
This degree is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST).
“I chose to study at Southampton because of their outstanding reputation as a great University. Furthermore the Marine Biology course is run at the National Oceanography Centre Southampton. The facilities and lecturers available there are very impressive.”
Course locations
This course is based at Waterfront (National Oceanography Centre Southampton) and Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2021 to 2022. We're working hard to plan for a number of possible scenarios. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
Entry requirements
For Academic year 202223
A-levels
AAB including Biology (minimum grade B) and one further science subject
A-levels additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Acceptable science subjects are Chemistry, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology, Geography or Physics.Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical science assessment is additionally required.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: ABB including Biology and one further science subject, and grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows: ABB including Biology (minimum grade B) and one further science subject
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 34 points overall with 17 points at Higher Level, including 5 and 6 at Higher Level Biology and one further Higher Level science subject
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Acceptable science subjects include Chemistry, Physics, Maths (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation), Environmental Studies, Geography and Geology.
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC Extended Certificate plus AA in A Level Biology and one further science subject We do not accept the BTEC National Diploma/ BTEC National Extended Diploma without two AA grades in A Level Biology and one further science subject,
RQF BTEC
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Chemistry, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology, Geography or Physics. Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical science assessment is additionally required. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
QCF BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus AA in A Level Biology and one further science subject. We do not accept the BTEC Diploma/BTEC Extended Diploma without two AA grades in A Level Biology and one further science subject.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1, H2, H2, H2, H2, H2 including Biology and one further science subject
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
AAAABB to include Biology and one further science subject
Irish certificate additional information
Acceptable science subjects include Chemistry, Maths, Physics, Environmental Studies, Geography and Geology. Applicants will be required to have achieved a pass in Mathematics and English at ILC Grade C or 04, the equivalent of GCSE grade C/grade 4.
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3, D3, M2 in three Principal subjects including Biology and one further science subject at a minimum of M2
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Acceptable science subjects include Chemistry, Maths, Physics, and Geography. Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A Levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D3 can be used in lieu of A Level grade A or grade M2 can be used in lieu of grade B.
Welsh Baccalaureate
AAB from 3 A levels including Biology and one further science subject or AA from two A levels subject including Biology and one further science subject and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Chemistry, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology, Geography or Physics.Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical science assessment is additionally required. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
European Baccalaureate
79% overall including minimum grade 8 in Biology and grade 8 in one further science subject. Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology, Geography or Physics.
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English Language (or GCSE English), Mathematics and Science (minimum grade C/4).
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
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our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
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skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Science Foundation Year
The Science Foundation Year will give you the skills and knowledge to progress to this course if you don't have the right qualifications for direct entry.
It could be the right option if you:
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are studying for A levels in subjects other than those we normally ask for
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are a mature applicant with skills and experience from employment and can show recent study
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you come from a part of the world where the education system is different from the British A level system
Find full details on our Science Foundation Year page.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
All modules are compulsory in the first 2 years, providing the foundations for the rest of the course. In years 3 and 4 you'll be able specialise in topics at the forefront of marine science knowledge. You'll also have the opportunity to carry out supervised original research.
You do not need to select your modules when you apply. Your academic tutor will help you to customise your course.
Year 1 overview
Compulsory modules introduce you to marine animals and plants. You'll study their ecology, taxonomy and physiology. You'll also develop an understanding of the physical and chemical oceanography of the sea.
You'll gain the practical field skills needed by marine biologists, including:
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safe boat work
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taking samples
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logging data
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basic navigation skills
Year 2 overview
You'll expand your practical and fieldwork knowledge by including coastal ecology. You'll also take part in a 10-day field course in Falmouth. You'll work from boats collecting samples and data that describe the marine chemistry, physics and biology of the estuarine and coastal environment.
Compulsory modules cover marine vertebrates, phytoplankton and marine sediment habitats.
Year 3 overview
You’ll take compulsory modules to extend your knowledge in:
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zooplankton
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marine ecophysiology
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fisheries and aquaculture
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marine molecular biology
Optional modules cover topics such as coral reefs, marine conservation and human-caused global change.
Year 4 overview
The advanced research project is an opportunity for you to apply scientific methodology to the investigation and interpretation of marine biological or oceanographic problems. You'll carry out practical, field, database, and laboratory-based research on a project you design yourself.
Optional modules allow you to specialise in areas including:
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disease in marine systems
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data modelling
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the use of satellites in oceanography
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tropical marine biology
The tropical marine biology module is run as a 2-week field course. Exclusive to final year MSci students, there is an option to travel to either Galapagos or Thailand.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2021 to 2022. We're working hard to plan for a number of possible scenarios. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
For entry in Academic Year 2021-22
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
This module develops analytical skills required for evidence-based interpretation of data generated in the Marine Sciences. The material will focus initially on both the philosophical background of statistical analysis, illustrating how applications in pu...
An introduction to the fundamental processes which determine the environment of the Earth and the general functioning of the Earth as a system.
Year 2 modules
You must study the following modules in year 2:
The aims of the module are to: 1. Understand basic ecological principles relating to shore ecology; 2. Use keys to identify fauna and macro algae; 3. Design, plan and implement a research project based on intertidal community ecology; 4. Appreciate...
Year 3 modules
You must study the following modules in year 3:
The module consists of the main Oceanography undergraduate fieldcourse which takes place at the end of Semester 2 (late June to early July) following the exam period plus some work on report writing and data presentation in Semester 1 of the following aca...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
Biogeography aims to understand the origin and distribution of species and the processes that cause them to change over time. During the lectures we will discuss classic biogeographical theory and current research topics such as biological invasions and s...
This module will consider human-caused global challenges and their impact on marine and terrestrial ecosystems. We will discuss the main causes of global change, including greenhouse gases, changes in temperature and rainfall, and human land use, as well ...
This module is only open to Year 3 students registered on MSci Biology and Marine Biology, BSc Biology and Marine Biology, BSc Marine Biology with Oceanography, MSci Marine Biology and Oceanography, MSci Marine Biology and BSc Marine Biology degrees. MSc ...
This module is only open to year 3 students registered on MSci Biology and Marine Biology, BSc Biology and Marine Biology, BSc Marine Biology with Oceanography, MSci Marine Biology and Oceanography, Msci Marine Biology and BSc Marine Biology degrees.
Year 4 modules
You must study the following modules in year 4:
For each topic, the subject lead staff member will provide 'starting references' to direct independent study. Where necessary this will include the provision of appropriate pdf versions of key review articles or other papers that are pertinent to the topi...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 4:
Evidence-based ecology, evolution and conservation require quantitative analyses of field data typically collected under imperfectly controlled conditions and across heterogeneous habitats. This module will develop generic skills in (1) the design of data...
This module examines the patterns of life in deep-sea environments & the processes that govern those patterns.
This module focuses on increasing your awareness of different modelling approaches, and to give you the skills for constructing and using simple ecological models.
What is the likely impact of coastal erosion on local residents? Where is the most suitable location for a solar farm? How will sea-level rise impact protected habitats? Understanding the spatial context in which environmental processes occur improves the...
This course aims to provide a broad introduction at Masters level to the ways in which remote sensing of the oceans, mainly from satellites but also from autonomous underwater vehicles, is applied in oceanography. Whether you have a special interest in th...
This module is only open to Year 3 students registered on MSci Biology and Marine Biology, BSc Biology and Marine Biology, BSc Marine Biology with Oceanography, MSci Marine Biology and Oceanography, MSci Marine Biology and BSc Marine Biology degrees. MSc ...
The module introduces the diversity of marine parasites and pathogens and explores their classical and molecular ecology.
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Course time
How you'll spend your course time:
Year 1
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- essays
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Year 2
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 2:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- essays
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 2:
Year 3
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 3:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- essays
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 3:
Year 4
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 4:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- essays
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 4:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Martin Solan is the course leader.
Careers
You'll graduate from this master's degree in marine biology with the specialist skills and knowledge to embark on a successful career as a marine biologist, or in a related field such as conservation or oceanography.
Our graduates often continue their studies to postgraduate taught degree or PhD level. They also embark on careers at universities or consultancies, or with employers such as NERC (Natural Environment Research Council), CEFAS (Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science), Natural England or the Environment Agency.
Transferable skills in analysis, research, problem-solving and teamwork mean you'll also be ideally suited to work in many other areas.
Roles our marine biology graduates have gone into include:
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marine scientist
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oceanographer
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conservation officer
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geologist
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fisheries officer
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oil spill consultant
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marine science officer
You can boost your employability by volunteering to work our research aquarium.
Our careers and employability service will help you to find work placements and graduate jobs, as well as offer specialist careers advice.
You'll also be supported by your personal academic tutor and an employability coordinator, who can advise you on your career path throughout your course.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
work experience schemes
CV and interview skills and workshops
networking events
careers fairs attended by top employers
a wealth of volunteering opportunities
study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Work in industry
You'll have the chance to complete a paid year in employment between the second and third years of your course.
This will allow you to try out a potential future career and apply the skills and knowledge you have learned during your course to a real-world setting.
You'll also gain experience that will add to your employability when you graduate.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £23,720.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.
Find out how to:
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant that's linked to your chosen subject area.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Services Centre offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
When you apply use:
- UCAS course code: F703
- UCAS institution code: S27
What happens after you apply?
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
We aim to respond to you within 2 to 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
