About this course
On this BSc Oceanography degree you'll study marine ecosystems and ocean processes whilst you explore some of the remotest places on earth. You’ll learn to use the latest technologies in molecular biology, high performance computing and robotic sampling to address the key challenges facing the marine environment.
Join one of the largest marine science communities in Europe as you study at the world-leading National Oceanography Centre Southampton (NOCS).
On this course you’ll study topics such as:
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conservation strategies for vulnerable species and ecosystems
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ocean currents, globally connecting tropics to poles
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changing sea levels at our coasts, on timescales from hours to centuries
Fieldwork, practical skills and independent research are core parts of this programme. You’ll have the opportunity to:
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work in the field aboard the research vessel the RV Callista
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use laboratory analysis to examine our diverse marine environment
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develop computing and data analysis skills essential for research
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obtain qualifications in first aid and sea survival
After developing a range of key skills for oceanographers in your first and second years, you’ll tackle an advanced topic of choice for a dissertation in your third year.
Our BSc Oceanography programme will provide you with the professional-level skills that are ideal for a career in the expanding marine sector, or for progression to more specialised postgraduate study.
You’ll gain the guidance, support and expertise of researchers at the forefront of their fields, and graduate prepared for a career in industries like:
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environmental consultancy
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ocean and climate research
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coastal engineering and management
This degree is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST).
Accreditations
Course location
This course is based at Waterfront (National Oceanography Centre Southampton).
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the programme specification
The programme specification sets out the learning outcomes of this course and details how the course is taught and assessed.
Entry requirements
For Academic year 202021
A-levels
ABB to include two acceptable science subjects (minimum of grade B)
A-levels additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
Acceptable science subject are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology 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. You will be required to attend an interview.
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:
BBB to include two acceptable science subjects, 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:
BBB to include two acceptable science subjects (minimum of grade B)
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 32 points overall with 16 points at Higher Level, including 5 in two Higher Level science subjects
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Acceptable science subject are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation), Environmental Studies, Geology or Physics. You will be required to attend an interview.
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 Subsidiary Diploma plus AB in A Level acceptable science subjects.
We do not accept the BTEC Diploma/BTEC Extended Diploma without two AB grades in A Level acceptable science subjects.
BTEC additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, 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.
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English Language (or GCSE English), Mathematics and Science (minimum grade C/4).
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
COVID-19: we've made some changes to the structure of the course for this academic year. Download the programme specification addendum in 'About this course' to learn more.
In your first year, you'll develop a foundation in the biology, physics, chemistry and geology of the marine environment. You'll gain the field and laboratory skills that will underpin your studies, including boat work.
In your second year, you'll apply your scientific knowledge and focus to a number of exciting pathways. At the end of this year, you'll take part in the main undergraduate field course in Falmouth or Plymouth.
In your third year, you'll study advanced topics in your chosen area. You'll also produce a research-led dissertation on a topic of your choice.
Year 1 overview
You'll study 5 compulsory modules:
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Introduction to Ocean Biogeochemistry
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Earth and Ocean System
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Physical Oceanography 1
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Introduction to Marine Ecology and Evolution
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Key Skills for Marine Scientists
You'll also study 1 of these compulsory maths modules, based on your existing maths qualifications:
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Introductory Mathematics for Chemists and Oceanographers
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Mathematical Methods for Scientists
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Quantitative Earth and Ocean Sciences
You'll then choose the rest of your modules from a wide range of options, including:
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Macromolecules of Life
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Dynamic Landscapes
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Quantitative Methods in Marine Sciences
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Ecology and Evolution
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The Earth System
Year 2 overview
You'll take 6 compulsory modules to build your expertise:
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Coastal and Estuarine Oceanography 1 and 2
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Geochemistry
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Methods in Oceanography
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Physical Oceanography 2
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Phytoplankton and Primary Production
If you took the Mathematical Methods for Scientists module in year 1, you'll choose 2 modules from the list of options below.
If you did not take the Mathematical Methods for Scientists module in year 1, you'll take a Quantitative Methods in Marine Science module here. You'll also choose 1 optional module from this list:
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Geohazards and Earth Resources
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Marine Benthos Ecology
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Mathematical Methods for Scientists
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Palaeobiology
Year 3 overview
Your final core modules are:
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Applied Oceanography and Fieldwork
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Independent Research Project
You'll complete your studies by choosing 5 modules from a list designed to support your career ambitions, including:
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Environmental Impact Assessment
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Large Scale Ocean Processes and Climate
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Seafloor Exploration and Surveying
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Zooplankton Ecology and Processes
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Computational Data Analysis for Geophysicists and Ocean Scientists
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
For entry in Academic Year 2021-22
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
You must also choose from the following modules in year 1:
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
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
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Robert Marsh is the course leader.
Careers
All of our oceanography programmes are accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST). This Oceanography degree will prepare you for work in a range of oceanography careers and industries.
Our alumni work in fields including:
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research institutes (such as NERC)
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Natural England
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CEFAS
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the Environment Agency
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exploration geophysics and geophysical survey projects
Alternatively, you can choose to take a specialised Masters degree in fields such as coastal management, marine technology or maritime law.
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
This course is eligible for a year in employment. This is a great opportunity for you to complete a work placement between your second and third year as part of your degree.
In your final year, you can gain your own teaching skills by taking a placement in a school or college with the Undergraduate Ambassadors Scheme.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £22,760.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.
Find out how to:
You'll be responsible for paying certain costs not covered by the tuition fee. These include:
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some field trip costs
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personal computer or laptop and data storage devices
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books that are not available in the library
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equipment and materials used in projects
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costs related to modules from different courses
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: F710
- 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 invite suitable applicants for interview at the National Oceanography Centre in Southampton. If you can't travel to Southampton, our admissions tutor can arrange a remote interview on Skype or FaceTime.
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
