BSc (Hons) Marine Biology at Newcastle University

Programme overview

Our Marine Biology degree offers an understanding of all the exciting marine ecosystems on our planet. You'll study the biology of marine life from microbes through to whales, and consider climate change and marine conservation. The planet cannot survive without its oceans.

Faculty: Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering | Department: School of Natural and Environmental Sciences | Duration: Full time: 3 years | Study mode: full-time | Intake: September 2027 | Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

You’ll cover a broad range of topics to provide you with a solid foundation of knowledge in Marine Biology. This foundation will help you understand more complex challenges and solutions as you progress in your degree. Compulsory modules include: Genetics and Evolution, Ecology and Conservation, Marine Biology, Animal Life, Introduction to Marine Sciences, Skills for the Biosciences, Biodiversity, Ecology and Conservation, Tropical Marine Ecology, Contemporary Oceanography, Professional Skills for Bioscientists, Field Skills for Marine Science, Compulsory module, Career Service Placement Year Module, International Study Year Module.

Career pathways

By the end of your course, you’ll have a range of transferable skills that are useful in various careers. Our graduates have built successful careers in fields as diverse as computing and finance. Graduate roles and employers include: Ocean Ecology; Natural Power; BBC Natural History Unit; Marine Management Organisation; Natural England; Environment Agency; Cefas; Marine Management Organisation; World Wildlife Fund (WWF); Natural England.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A levels: ABB including Biology or Human Biology and another science subject from: Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Psychology, IT and PE. General Studies and Critical Thinking are excluded. Chemistry preferred at A/AS Level but not essential. For Biology, Chemistry and Physics A Levels, we require a pass in the practical element. Mathematics required at GCSE (minimum grade B or 6) IB: 32 points preferably including Biology at Higher Level Grade 6. If not studying full IB Diploma - Grades 6, 5, 5 at Higher Level including Biology at Grade 6 and completion of a national high school diploma. Chemistry is preferred at Higher Level but not essential. Mathematics and Chemistry required at Standard Level grade 5 if not offered at Higher Level. BTEC: Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma - Applied Science only. DDD required. Mathematics required at GCSE (minimum grade B or 6) Scottish Highers: AABBB at Higher Grade including Biology and another science subject from: Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Psychology, IT, PE and Design & Technology. Advanced Higher Biology is preferred. Chemistry desirable at Higher Grade but not essential. Mathematics required at National 5, minimum grade B (or grade 2 Standard Grade or Intermediate 2 equivalent) if not offered at Higher Grade. Scottish qualifications can be taken in more than one sitting.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,050 a year (2027/28). Year 1 tuition fee (full-time) Source

International applicants: GBP 32,600 a year (2027/28). Year 1 tuition fee (full-time) Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: Full time: 3 years

Apply through the official page: https://www.ncl.ac.uk/undergraduate/degrees/c161/#how-to-apply

Explore more study programmes

STEM