About this course
With our MSci degree in biology and marine biology, you’ll develop knowledge about the living world from the molecular level to entire ecosystems across both terrestrial and marine biology. You'll learn through through lectures, laboratory work, and by doing fieldwork in the UK and abroad. You’ll be well equipped for careers involving research, conservation, inshore fisheries and habitat management.
Our master's degree in biology and marine biology will give you knowledge and understanding of living organisms at several levels - from the molecular, through cells and whole organisms, to ecosystems. It will also give you an understanding of biology from an evolutionary perspective.
Through the world-leading research institution, the National Oceanography Centre Southampton (NOCS), you'll become part of one of the largest marine science communities in Europe. Our research feeds directly into what you'll learn on our biology and marine biology master's degree programmes. Our research vessels are only a 10 minute walk from the lecture theatres and boat-based fieldwork is an important part of the programme.
In this MSci Biology and Marine Biology course, you can:
- take part in a full fieldwork programme including residential trips in the UK and abroad, including Thailand.
- combine scientific work in the laboratory with practical skills classes on shore and on the water
- complete an independent research project working alongside research active staff – this will set you up for career in further research or a specialised master's
- choose from a selection of modules depending on your area of interest - for example, you can study the business biosciences, which looks at the process of drug discovery, clinical trials, marketing and the sale of drug products
- learn highly sought-after transferable skills, including team working, written and oral communication, time management, planning, data collection, analysis and presentation
Practicals which use animals or their tissues are an important part of the course. These practicals follow ethical policies and we'll make adjustments for you if you have valid concerns about taking part.
We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.
Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).
Learn more about these subject areas
Student stories
I am most proud of how I have progressed throughout my degree, both academically and on a personal level. I have taken part in amazing projects, such as working with the National Geographic, a dream of mine – and learnt so much.
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.
Entry requirements
For Academic year 202526
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 Science, 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.
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.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 34 points overall with 17 points at Higher Level, including 5 and 6 at Higher Level Biology 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 Science, 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 Science, 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.
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3 of which 39 credits must be at Distinction and 6 credits at Merit.
Access to HE additional information
A core science Access to HE Diploma to contain Level 3 modules in Biology (to include ecology) and either Chemistry, Physics or Environmental Science and Maths. If you are unsure whether the Access you are studying would be accepted, please contact the Admissions Team before submitting an application.
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 Science, Geography and Geology. Applicants will be required to have achieved a pass in Mathematics and English at ILC Grade C or O4, 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 Science, 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.
T-Level
Not accepted for this course. Applicants with a T Level in a relevant subject should apply for the Science Foundation Year
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English Language (or GCSE English), Mathematics and Science at 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
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
- our Ignite your Journey scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
- 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:
-
are studying for A levels in subjects other than those we normally ask for
-
are a mature applicant with skills and experience from employment and can show recent study
-
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 year, providing the foundations for the rest of the course. There is an opportunity to choose more specialist options from year 2. In years 3 and 4, the focus is on research, with field work opportunities and exposure to the latest thinking with marine biology.
You don't need to select your modules when you apply. Your academic tutor will help you to customise your course.
Year 1 overview
You'll cover topics introducing you to marine animals and plants; their ecology, taxonomy and physiology. You'll also develop an understanding of the physical and chemical oceanography of the sea supported by practicals and boat work.
Optional modules allow you to study topics such as marine invertebrates or the types of macromolecule that constitute living cells.
Year 2 overview
Compulsory modules covers evolutionary processes, phytoplankton and quantitative methods in environmental science.
A wide range of optional modules allow you to develop practical skills and specialise in topics such as:
- animal behaviour
- neuroscience
- coastal ecology
- marine sediment habitats
Year 3 overview
You'll carry out either a laboratory based, field based, computer based or marine science research project. This is an opportunity for you show that you can undertake independent study.
A compulsory field work module will develop your skills in shallow water biological survey techniques, using a range of methods from transect surveys to a remotely operated vehicle (ROV).
Further optional modules allow you to specialise in areas, such as:
- bioinformatics
- plant cell biology
- fisheries
- coral reefs
Year 4 overview
The advanced research project is an opportunity for you carry out practical, field, database, or laboratory-based research on a project you design yourself. Alongside this, you'll attend seminars where the latest research is presented, in order to gain insight into how research is carried out and peer-reviewed.
Optional modules allow you to specialise in areas, such as biodiversity, applied ecology or tropical marine biology.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.
For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
Earth and Ocean System
An introduction to the fundamental processes which determine the environment of the Earth and the general functioning of the Earth as a system.
Fundamentals of Biochemistry
The aim of this module is initially to explain the characteristics and roles of molecules that constitute living cells, including DNA, proteins, lipids and carbohydrates. Subsequently, the fundamental metabolic pathways will be explored, along with the co...
How to be Scientifically Literate
Scientific literacy refers to the ability of individuals to understand, evaluate, and engage with scientific information and concepts in a meaningful way. It involves not only knowing scientific facts but also understanding the processes of scientific inq...
Marine Invertebrates
An exciting journey through the weird and wonderful world of marine invertebrates. You will learn how to identify key representatives of the marine invertebrate phyla and understand how their characteristic body plans allow them to thrive in habitats that...
Origins of Biodiversity
In this module you will explore and explain patterns of global biodiversity over space and time, affecting a wide variety of lineages. We will begin as 18th century natural historians, considering the impact of new discoveries, due to the invention of the...
Year 2 modules
You must study the following modules in year 2:
Animal Behaviour
This module provides an introduction to the study of animal behaviour taking an integrative approach that addresses animal behaviour from ethological, ecological and evolutionary angles and to review the basic concepts of behaviour as a science.
Coastal Ecology Field Course
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...
Evolution
The module seeks to: - explore the main evolutionary processes - consider evolution at the phenotypic as well as the molecular level - consider evolutionary processes occurring at different time scales
Marine Benthic Ecology
Phytoplankton and Primary Production
Pure and Applied Population Ecology
This module builds on the basic principles of population ecology introduced in year 1, to achieve a broad appreciation of current theory and practice in population and community ecology. Lectures and practicals will explore the processes involved in the d...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 2:
Behaviour and Ecology Field Course
A 5 day field course held in Bolonia on the Andalucian coast of Southern Spain, within the Estrecho natural park. The field course will take place during the Easter holidays, when there is a large diversity of flora and fauna to survey. As a residential f...
Marine Vertebrates
Palaeobiology
Plant Development and Function
This module provides an understanding of plant function and development at a molecular, cellular and whole organism level.
Zooplankton Ecology and Processes
Year 3 modules
You must study the following modules in year 3:
Field Research Project
Each student undertakes an investigation which includes both practical and theoretical components. The theory component will consist of a critical review of the literature relating to the proposed experimental component of the project. The fieldwork is re...
Global Challenges in Biology
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 ...
In-Silico Research Project
Each student undertakes an investigation which includes both practical and theoretical components. The theory component will consist of a critical review of the literature relating to the proposed experimental/analytical component of the project. The topi...
Laboratory Research Project
Each student undertakes an investigation which includes both practical and theoretical components. The theory component will consist of a critical review of the literature relating to the proposed experimental component of the project. The laboratory work...
Ocean and Earth Science Research Training
This module will develop the skills necessary to become an independent researcher, and provide the underpinning skills base needed to undertake MSci level independent research. It will introduce you to a number of topics that reflect the range of research...
Shallow Water Survey Techniques
Biologists are often required to provide 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 collection protoc...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
Applied Plant Biology
This module provides a broad introduction to the applied use of plants in the modern world. The module will cover the production of transgenic (GM) plants and their applications in a variety of areas including medical biotechnology, nutrition, phytoremedi...
Behavioural Ecology
Behavioural ecology considers the evolutionary pressures that shape behaviour. This module will explore animal behaviours from evolutionary biology and population ecological perspectives. Each week, lectures will consider a different behavioural ecology t...
Biodiversity and Conservation
This module concerns global biodiversity, what we understand by it and why it is in crisis, and current efforts to conserve and manage it. We begin with an appraisal of different values of diversity at scales from genetic to species, communities and ecosy...
Evolution and Development
This module will deliver a comprehensive analysis of the topics associated with evolutionary developmental biology. This will involve exploring the theory of evolution; embryology and molecular pathways of development; what the fossil record tells us abou...
Evolution and Genetics
Evolution typically happens over long time periods, with organisms being selected based on their environments. But climate change and human factors can also increase the rate of evolution. In this module we show how organisms evolve in terms of their envi...
Marine Conservation and Policy
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 ...
Marine Fisheries Ecology
Marine Microbial Ecology and Biotechnology
Seascape Ecology
This course focuses on understanding the causes and ecological consequences of seascape patterns and processes in space and time. A central theme will be the movements of marine organisms and their interaction with dynamic environments at different scales...
Understanding Coral Reefs
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:
Advanced Field Research Project
The aim of this module is to allow students to carry out an extensive field-based research project on a specific topic related to his/her main area of study.
Advanced Independent Research Project
Your Advanced Independent Research Project is the culmination of your MSci degree. All projects are tailored to the interests of individual students and could involve an external organisation (e.g. industry or research institution) or be hosted by one of...
Advanced Research Project
The aim of this module is to allow students to carry out an extensive research project on a specific topic related to their main area of study.
Contemporary Topics in Ocean and Earth Science
This module deals with contemporary issues in Ocean and Earth Science. It will develop your presentation and writing skills through directed independent study of two chosen contemporary topics. The topics are provided by the module lead and associated sta...
Current Research
This module will support the student's Masters project work, and is centred around existing seminar series and other activities within the School of Biological Sciences and other Academic Units. It exposes students to current research and aims to enforce ...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 4:
Biodiversity and Conservation
This module concerns global biodiversity, what we understand by it and why it is in crisis, and current efforts to conserve and manage it. We begin with an appraisal of different values of diversity at scales from genetic to species, communities and ecosy...
Biological Data Science in R
Biological data science is a rapidly evolving field at the intersection of biology, statistics, and computer science. There is a growing demand for professionals skilled in analysing and interpreting data as well as an expectation that students will be fa...
Current Topics in Cell and Developmental Biology
This module provides a detailed and up-to-date study of a small number of topics in modern cell biology
Deep Sea Ecology
This module examines the patterns of life in deep-sea environments & the processes that govern those patterns.
Ecological Modelling
This course is intended as a beginner’s guide to marine ecological modelling. It is suitable for students across a broad range of academic backgrounds and does not assume a high level of prior mathematical knowledge or experience in coding. The course...
Evolution and Genetics
Evolution typically happens over long time periods, with organisms being selected based on their environments. But climate change and human factors can also increase the rate of evolution. In this module we show how organisms evolve in terms of their envi...
Marine Reproduction
This module will cover all aspects of reproduction in marine organisms.
Tropical Marine Biology Field Course
During this fieldcourse you will conduct snorkeling surveys of coral reef and soft bottom habitats by boat and from the beach. You will map marine underwater habitats in one of the world’s most iconic biodiversity hotspots. You will evaluate the influence...
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:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Phillip Fenberg is the course leader.
Careers
This course will help you develop the specialist skills and knowledge needed to start a successful career in conservation, coastal research, inshore fisheries and habitat management, or related fields.
Alternatively, you might decide you want to continue your studies to postgraduate taught level, or pursue marine biology PhD opportunities.
Our marine graduates have gone on to work for government agencies such as the British Antarctic Survey and the Environment Agency, and global corporations such as BP.
They have also embarked on careers at universities, museums and 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 graduates have gone into include:
- marine scientist
- oceanographer
- conservation officer
- geologist
- fisheries officer
- oil spill consultant
- 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 offering 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.
Contact us to speak to a careers advisor.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. 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 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 will 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 £28,800.
The Government has recently announced changes to UK tuition fees from September 2025 onwards. We will update our website to reflect this shortly.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and standard exams.
Find out how to:
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.
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 to help fund your studies.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from under-represented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Hub 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
What happens after you apply?
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
We'll aim to process your application within 2 to 6 weeks, but this will depend on when it is submitted. Applications submitted in January, particularly near to the UCAS equal consideration deadline, might take substantially longer to be processed due to the high volume received at that time.
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
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Biology and Marine Biology (MSci) is a course in the Ocean and Earth science and Biological sciences subject areas. Here are some other courses within these subject areas:
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- Information theoretic methods for sensor management
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