We are increasingly aware of the value of marine organisms for food, medicine and other products as well as for their role in influencing the climate. Marine Biology is the study of organisms that occupy 95% of the biosphere of our planet, living in conditions ranging from the polar seas (below -2℃) to hydrothermal vents (greater than 100℃). The majority of phyla are found in the oceans; the sizes of organisms range from the smallest micro-organism on the planet to the largest invertebrates (giant squid) and mammals (blue whales).
The BSc Marine Biology (with Foundation Year) programme combines a foundation year with the three year Honours Degree to create an integrated four year programme. The programme provides an excellent introduction to studying a science subject at university and will provide you with the knowledge, skills and confidence required to study at degree-level. The with Foundation Year programme is ideal for applicants who do not quite meet the entry requirements for the three year degree or who would benefit from further a further year’s study in relation to studying a science subject.
Successful completion of the Foundation Year will see you progress to Year 1 of the Marine Biology programme.
Why choose Bangor University for this course?
- As a Bangor University student, you will be taught by committed and enthusiastic staff and will have access to the University’s extensive student support network and facilities.
- Our School is one of the largest university centres teaching Marine Sciences in Britain and is among the biggest in Europe.
- We are situated within a few metres of the sea, ideal for developing your skills in collecting data in estuaries, on the sea shore and at sea.
- We have a £3.5m ocean-going research ship which you will use during your studies.
Additional Course Options
This course is available with a Placement Year option where you will study for 1 additional year. The Placement Year is undertaken at the end of the second year and students are away for the whole of the academic year.
The Placement Year provides you with a fantastic opportunity to broaden your horizons and develop valuable skills and contacts through working with a self-sourced organisation relevant to your degree subject. The minimum period in placement (at one or more locations) is seven calendar months; more usually you would spend 10-12 months with a placement provider. You would normally start sometime in the period June to September of your second year and finish between June and September the following year. Placements can be UK-based or overseas and you will work with staff to plan and finalise the placement arrangements.
You will be expected to find and arrange a suitable placement to complement your degree and will be fully supported throughout by a dedicated member of staff at your academic School and the University’s Careers and Employability Services.
You will have the opportunity to fully consider this option when you have started your course at Bangor and can make an application for a transfer onto this pathway at the appropriate time. Read more about the work experience opportunities that may be available to you or, if you have any questions, please get in touch.
This course is available with an International Experience Year option where you will study or work abroad for 1 additional year. You will have ‘with International Experience’ added to your degree title on graduating.
Studying abroad is a great opportunity to see a different way of life, learn about new cultures and broaden your horizons. With international experience of this kind, you’ll really improve your career prospects. There are a wide variety of destinations and partner universities to choose from. If you plan to study in a country where English is not spoken natively, there may be language courses available for you at Bangor and in your host university to improve your language skills.
You will have the opportunity to fully consider this option at any time during your degree at Bangor and make your application. If you have any questions in the meantime, please get in touch.
Read more about the International Experience Year programme and see the studying or working abroad options on the Student Exchanges section of our website.
