Marine Biology and Oceanography

This interdisciplinary degree provides an in-depth study of the biological, chemical and physical processes of the oceans, seas and estuaries. You will embark on a detailed study of life in the sea, from the smallest bacteria to the largest mammals. This knowledge will be underpinned  by a specialised understanding how the different marine habitats are affected by key physical (currents, tides, waves and ocean mixing) and biogeochemical (carbon cycle, nutrient recycling by the microbial loop) processes that mediate interactions between the atmosphere, ocean and sea floor.

On this course you will be given an in-depth understanding of the important processes in the oceans, shelf seas and estuaries. We combine the detailed study of life in the sea, from the smallest bacteria to the largest mammals, with a specialised understanding of their physical and chemical environments: the currents, tides and waves, and the biogeochemical interactions within the atmosphere, ocean and sea floor.

‘Placement Year’ and 'International Experience Year’ options are available for this course. You will have the opportunity to fully consider these options when you have started your course at Bangor and can make an application for a transfer onto such a pathway at the appropriate time. You can find more information about these options on our website and if you have any questions, please get in touch.

If you don’t have the required qualifications for this degree-level course or are looking to re-enter education after time away from study, then a Foundation Year Programme might be the right choice for you. Please see Marine Biology (with Foundation Year) C16F.

Make lifelong friends and build a future you can be proud of at Bangor University.

You’ll benefit from high quality teaching, expert support and a friendly learning environment at a top 20 UK university (Uni Compare Rankings 2027), while gaining real world experience through work placements and opportunities to study abroad. With accommodation guaranteed for all Clearing applicants, you can settle in quickly and start making the most of university life from day one.

Bangor’s stunning campus and close knit community make it easy to feel at home. Meet friends at Bar Uno, Pontio or Barlows, stay active at Brailsford Sports Centre, or learn in specialist facilities including a Natural History Museum, Botanic Garden, research ship, replica courtroom and fully equipped media centre.

Set between the mountains and the sea, with excellent transport links and a low cost of living, Bangor offers an outstanding student experience where you can belong, grow in confidence and shape your future. It’s time to make Bangor your new home!