BSc (Hons) in Marine Biology
University of Stirling
Key Information
Campus location
Stirling, United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
48 months
Pace
Full time, Part time
Tuition fees
Request info
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Aug 2024
* For up to date fee information, please see website
Introduction
Overview
Are you fascinated by the oceans and the rich diversity of organisms that inhabit their depths?
Marine Biology is the study of specialised plants and animals and how they’ve adapted to the challenges of living in a marine environment. It’s also concerned with the impact human activity has on the health of the oceans and their sustainable management, directly addressing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life below Water.
Top reasons to study with us
#1 A research-based learning course led by expert lecturers in the field of marine biology with international research links and projects that expand worldwide
#2 The Institute of Aquaculture ranked first in the UK, in the field of Agriculture, Veterinary and Food Science, for impact – with 100% of its research having outstanding impact, the highest possible rating (REF 2021)
#3 Gain practical experience with a residential field course on marine mammals and field trips for seashore marine organisms.
Curriculum
Course details
This course will enable you to understand the form, function and dynamics of aquatic systems, and to understand the biology, ecology, taxonomy and management of organisms inhabiting these systems. Practical work is integrated into the course to help you translate theory into practice.
You’ll learn to design and perform a range of aquatic survey techniques and use the information to assess the quality of marine habitats. You’ll also have practical and theoretical understanding of taxonomy using traditional and molecular techniques.
The final year of study involves an independent research project, often carried out with external organisations. Overseas projects in Semester 8 are encouraged and have previously been located throughout Europe, North and South America, the Indian subcontinent, Asia and Oceania.
In the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, The Institute of Aquaculture ranked first in the UK, in the field of Agriculture, Veterinary and Food Science, for impact – with 100% of its research having outstanding impact, the highest possible rating.
Our course is run by one of the leading international centres in its field. With an excellent outcome in the most recent Research Excellence Framework 2021 and the Queen’s Anniversary Prize 2019, we bring together cross-disciplinary, world class researchers and have built up a first-class international reputation in teaching, research, contract research and consultancy for aquaculture. We collaborate with academic research institutions throughout Europe and beyond, including Spain, China, Brazil, Norway and Thailand.
Teaching
The University of Stirling have been awarded five star excellence for teaching by the QS World University Rankings 2020.
Our academics use their international research activities to teach you the latest thinking and trends in marine biology. Our teaching is delivered through lectures and practical classes, tutorials, seminars, computer-based learning and online materials, fieldwork, guided reading and research.
Fieldwork
You’ll take part in two fieldtrips in which you’ll study seashore and inshore marine organisms and marine mammal biology. An independent research project is a major component of the final year and often involves fieldwork.
There are also day field study visits to external sites and facilities, where you’ll get relevant experience and a practical grounding in marine biology.