BSc (Hons) Applied Marine Zoology degree

Course information

What is more exciting or enigmatic than the life in our oceans? We still know so little about this alien world which makes up 98% of the living space on our planet, but with technology developing at such a pace more and more discoveries are being made. It is an exciting time to be involved in any aspect of marine science; a crucial one too, as our impact on the world’s oceans has never been greater.

Foundation degree students who wish to progress to an honours degree can apply for third year entry to our top-up programme. You will need to have studied an appropriate foundation degree programme. The BSc has been designed to develop your interest and hone your professional skills to equip you for work in a growing industry.

Situated on the beautiful coast of North Cornwall we are perfectly located for fieldwork and we have a strong practical element running through the programme. You will get hands-on experience in using sampling and survey equipment, as well as planning and undertaking marine surveys: from plankton trawls, to underwater video mapping and offshore marine life surveys.

During your studies you will develop your understanding of marine animals; working from cellular processes up to whole organism and ecosystem levels. In Year 1 you will receive a firm grounding in aquatic ecology, marine and biological science as well as developing practical survey skills before moving on to more specialised modules, such as fish ecology and marine vertebrate biology and conservation in your second year. In your final year, you will choose from options such as GIS and marine environmental management, monitoring marine ecosystems and marine pollution and ecotoxicology as well as undertaking your own research for your honours project.

What You Will Learn

Year 1

Global Ocean Science
Ocean Ecology and Conservation
Marine Survey Techniques
Diversity Classification & Evolution
Fundamentals of Biology
Skills for Scientific Success


Year 2

Core
Marine Biology in Practice
Fish Ecology
Marine Vertebrate Biology and Conservation
Marine Invertebrates
Individual Research Project

Optional (choose 1)
Community Ecology and Genetics
Global Conservation


Year 3

Core:

Monitoring Marine Ecosystems
GIS and Marine Environmental Management
Honours Project

Optional:

Marine Pollution and Ecotoxicology
Conservation Project Management
Applications of Zoology
Conservation Genetics
Communicating Zoology

Entry Requirements

80 UCAS points from AS and A-Levels (at least 56 points must be at A2-level) or relevant level 3 qualification, such as: BTEC National Diploma / BTEC Extended Diploma - MMP Grades required (specific unit grades may be requested). Access to HE Diplomas in a relevant subject - 45 credits at level 3 (specific unit grades may be requested).

Plus GCSEs at grade C/grade 4 or above in English Language, Science and Mathematics: alternatives at Level 2 may be considered.

Mature applicants with relevant experience but without the stated qualifications will be considered individually and are encouraged to apply.

Assessment

Assessment includes coursework (approximately 70%) and exams/tests (30%). It is vitally important to build your communication skills as a scientist, so coursework is varied and includes a range from the conventional mediums like scientific reports, posters, presentations & essays to less traditional formats like film, podcasts, web content and social media.

Progression

It is the UN decade of the ocean and habitat restoration, this vital time for marine conservation activity is mirrored by the increasing interest in the marine world by the UK government and also different industries; some more sustainable than others. The variety and number of career opportunities in this field are expanding rapidly.

Possible Careers

- Marine Biologist
- Marine Education Officer
- Fisheries Officer
- Marine Technician
- Marine Ecological Consultant
- University Researcher
- Wildlife Guide

Examples of recent graduates: marine manager for Natural England, project lead for Manta Trust in Chagas Islands, PhD student with the Marine Biological Association, wildlife guide with Padstow Sea Safaris, aquarist at Blue Reef aquarium Newquay.

Newquay University Centre Cornwall College

Newquay University Centre Cornwall College

Newquay University Centre Cornwall College is a small but vibrant campus specialising in university level courses focussing on the environment. For over 20 years, we have inspired hundreds of students to make that all-important difference, using their passion as a guide. Our dedicated higher education campus is home to the marine science, zoology and surf stars of the future.

Championing #generationrestoration, this campus may be small, but its students and staff have a big impact on our planet and its future wellbeing. Likeminded individuals come together to undertake international, award-winning research, meaning when their incredible time at Newquay is done, they move onto fantastic and important careers.

It’s why you should definitely consider Newquay University Centre Cornwall College for your #careercollege experience.

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