Marine Biology BSc (Hons)

Typically, you will take core modules during your first two years, and advanced modules during your third and fourth year (known as Honours).

1st Year

In first year, modules introduce you to core subject material relevant to all biology degree programmes. Both of the following modules are compulsory.

• Biology 1: provides an introduction to molecular and cellular biology. It covers cell diversity and the origins of life, cellular structures and fundamental processes.
• Biology 2: provides an introduction to the diversity of life on Earth and will address key elements of organismal and ecological aspects of life.

In second year, modules are chosen which will best prepare you for Marine Biology, and new topics are introduced in some second-year modules such as evolutionary biology and ecology. Students on the Marine Biology course must take the following modules:

• Ecology: introduces basic concepts in population and community ecology and how they relate to biodiversity.
• Research methods in Biology: develops essential academic and transferable skills, with major emphasis on problem solving. This is achieved through a combination of interactive lectures, independent data-handling workshops and group work on a mini research project.

Students must also take two of the following modules:

• Comparative Physiology: covers the principles of physiological adaptation in a range of animals, including examples from all major taxa and from all habitats.
• Evolutionary Biology: gives an overview of the history and major principles of modern evolutionary biology.
• Invertebrate Zoology: surveys the major invertebrate groups, emphasising the diversity of body plans while demonstrating how the common functional requirements such as feeding, reproduction, respiration and excretion are achieved.
• Vertebrate Zoology: explores the diversity of vertebrate animals, beginning with the closest relatives of vertebrates and the evolutionary origins of the group.

In third year, you will continue to specialise in Marine Biology via a wide range of modules covering core topics. Modules that have been offered in previous years include:

• Aquatic Ecology
• Developmental Biology
• Ecosystems and Conservation
• Biology of Marine Organisms

In fourth year, you will study your chosen subject area at a deeper scientific level and will also have the opportunity to select from a wide range of small, group-specialised modules. These modules are taught by academics at the forefront of their discipline.

In this year, students also undertake a substantial final year research project. This research project is designed to develop skills in experimental design and problem-solving, the evaluation and interpretation of data, and communication skills. The project is selected and supervised by a member of academic staff. This project occupies half of the year.