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 Thailand. Graduate with the ability to work in research, wildlife management or conservation.
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:
- get the opportunity to conduct supervised original research
- examine the ecology of marine organisms, including feeding, reproduction, behaviour and migrations
- discover a range of topics from hydrothermal vents to coastal lagoons
- get extensive practical laboratory skills training at all levels
- take part in relevant field experience and training throughout the programme
- choose from a variety of semester abroad study opportunities
This degree is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST).
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).
“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.
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.
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 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 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 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.
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 Studies, 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 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:
- safe boat work
- taking samples
- logging data
- 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 Plymouth. 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:
- zooplankton
- marine ecophysiology
- fisheries and aquaculture
- 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:
- disease in marine systems
- data modelling
- the use of satellites in oceanography
- 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 Thailand.
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.
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...
Introduction to Environmental Biogeochemistry
Introduction to Functional Marine Biology
Introduction to Marine Ecology and Evolution
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...
Physics of the Ocean
Year 2 modules
You must study the following modules in year 2:
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...
Marine Benthic Ecology
Marine Vertebrates
Molecular Tools for Marine Biology Research
Molecular biological methods have provided exciting insights into the way that marine organisms work. This module will give students access to a foundation in marine molecular biological research and introduce molecular key tools, using hands-on and appl...
Monitoring Coastal and Estuarine Environments
Phytoplankton and Primary Production
Sediment in the Environment
This module considers sediment in the environment from small-scale to global-scale processes. At the small scale you will learn how to characterise sediments and the fluids that transport them. At the global scale you will learn about the main environment...
Zooplankton Ecology and Processes
Year 3 modules
You must study the following modules in year 3:
Applied Oceanography and Fieldwork
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...
Marine Fisheries Ecology
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...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
Behavioural Physiology
This course will provide an overview of behavioural physiology, which is a growing, interdisciplinary research area that stems from the idea that animal physiology and behaviour are inextricably linked and mutually enriching fields of study. This field fo...
Fish Evolution and Ecology
This module focuses on the exceptional diversity of forms and functions of fishes, how they evolved and how best to study them in the field and lab. Using a combination of lectures, laboratory exercises, and field trips, we will begin by exploring how geo...
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 ...
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 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 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...
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...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 4:
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...
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...
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 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
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:
- 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 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 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'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 £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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- Time variability on turbulent mixing of heat around melting ice in the West Antarctic
- Triggers and Feedbacks of Climate Tipping Points
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