BSc (Hons) MARINE SCIENCES WITH A PLACEMENT YEAR
BSC (HONS) MARINE SCIENCES WITH A PLACEMENT YEAR
The ocean covers 70% of the Earth’s surface and contains a huge range of ecosystems, from deep sea hydrothermal vents through to shallow estuaries. It is also a critical component of the integrated Earth system, playing a key role in the moderation of our climate, both now and into the future. Far from being a static pool, the marine environment is a dynamic and inherently interdisciplinary system, with complex feedbacks between physical, chemical and biological processes.
If you’re fascinated by the marine environment, our Marine Sciences degree will take you on a journey through the global oceans, exploring the interconnected physical, biogeochemical and ecological systems. You’ll discover the vulnerability of marine ecosystems to human activity, consider how marine resources may be used sustainably, and investigate the critical role of the ocean in mitigating climate change.
You’ll be studying at the forefront of the innovative research being undertaken in this subject. In the 2021 Times Higher Education REF Analysis, the research quality of our School of Environmental Sciences was ranked 4th overall in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences.
Our BSc Marine Sciences with a Placement Year is ranked in the top 20 for Earth and Marine Sciences by 'The Guardian University Guide 2023'.
About
What drives ocean currents? Why do phytoplankton bloom? How is ocean acidification linked to climate change? Where does all the plastic in the ocean go? How can marine energy be harnessed? If you’re fascinated by these sorts of questions, this is the degree for you.
During our Marine Sciences degree, you’ll explore the physical, biogeochemical and ecological systems that make the seas and oceans around the world such a rich and diverse environment. Throughout the course, you’ll develop a wide range of professional and transferable skills, such as analytical problem solving, computing, scientific communication and collaborative research. These are highly sought-after skills for employers in marine industries and the blue economy, including offshore oil and gas, offshore wind, marine renewables, shipping, fisheries and aquaculture, but also for education, research, environmental consulting and other professional occupations.
UEA’s School of Environmental Sciences is at the cutting edge of interdisciplinary marine and environmental research, and you’ll be taught by world-leading scientists in these fields. Through the Collaborative Centre for Sustainable use of the Seas, UEA has strong links with the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), who advise industry and the UK government on marine science and policy. Cefas lecturers are embedded in many of our modules and provide further insight into real-world applications of marine science.
The seas and oceans around the world must be effectively managed to ensure sustainable use of marine resources into the future. This requires an overarching understanding of all the interconnected marine systems and UEA’s Marine Science degree will put you in the unique position to be part of the solution.

We’re 4th for research quality!

What's included in your fees
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Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.Placement Year and Study Abroad
If you choose the BSc Marine Sciences with a Placement Year, you’ll spend your third year on an industrial placement. This will give you first-hand knowledge of the way in which your chosen field operates and improve your chances of progressing within that sector thanks to the relevant work experience, valuable contacts, and real-world insight that you will gain.

We’re 4th for research quality!

What's included in your fees
After the Course
After graduating, you’ll have gained a unique skillset to take into a range of specialist marine and environmental careers. Our recent graduates work at the UK Met Office, British Antarctic Survey and Cefas. Alternatively, you might decide to continue your studies with an MSc or apply your research skills to a PhD.
Employability is embedded in our modules, helping you develop your career and skills throughout your course. We work closely with UEA’s Careers Service to help you meet employers (including alumni), explore career options, speak to industry mentors, and apply for internships, volunteering, and graduate jobs.
Career destinations
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
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Offshore wind and marine renewables
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Metocean forecasting
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Benthic surveying and habitat assessment
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Fisheries and aquaculture
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Environmental consulting
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Government and university research

We’re 4th for research quality!

What's included in your fees
Assessment for Year 1
Assessment
We’ll use various assessment methods across the different modules, contributing in various proportions towards your overall module mark. Assessment methods include examinations, essays, projects, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, seminars, presentations and posters. We use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Feedback
You’ll receive constructive feedback on both your formative summative assessments to help you develop your understanding and skills and improve your performance at assessment. In the School of Environmental Sciences, we aim to return feedback within 10 working days of the assessment deadline.
Assessment for Year 2
Assessment
We’ll use various assessment methods across the different modules, contributing in various proportions towards your overall module mark. Assessment methods include examinations, essays, projects, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, seminars, presentations and posters. We use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Feedback
You’ll receive constructive feedback on both your formative summative assessments to help you develop your understanding and skills and improve your performance at assessment. In the School of Environmental Sciences, we aim to return feedback within 10 working days of the assessment deadline.
Assessment for Year 4
Assessment
We’ll use various assessment methods across the different modules, contributing in various proportions towards your overall module mark. Assessment methods include examinations, essays, projects, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, seminars, presentations and posters. We use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Feedback
You’ll receive constructive feedback on both your formative and summative assessments to help you develop your understanding and skills and improve your performance at assessment. In the School of Environmental Sciences, we aim to return feedback within 10 working days of the assessment deadline.
Assessment for Year 1
Assessment
We’ll use various assessment methods across the different modules, contributing in various proportions towards your overall module mark. Assessment methods include examinations, essays, projects, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, seminars, presentations and posters. We use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Feedback
You’ll receive constructive feedback on both your formative summative assessments to help you develop your understanding and skills and improve your performance at assessment. In the School of Environmental Sciences, we aim to return feedback within 10 working days of the assessment deadline.
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.Assessment for Year 2
Assessment
We’ll use various assessment methods across the different modules, contributing in various proportions towards your overall module mark. Assessment methods include examinations, essays, projects, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, seminars, presentations and posters. We use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Feedback
You’ll receive constructive feedback on both your formative summative assessments to help you develop your understanding and skills and improve your performance at assessment. In the School of Environmental Sciences, we aim to return feedback within 10 working days of the assessment deadline.
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.Assessment for Year 4
Assessment
We’ll use various assessment methods across the different modules, contributing in various proportions towards your overall module mark. Assessment methods include examinations, essays, projects, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, seminars, presentations and posters. We use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Feedback
You’ll receive constructive feedback on both your formative and summative assessments to help you develop your understanding and skills and improve your performance at assessment. In the School of Environmental Sciences, we aim to return feedback within 10 working days of the assessment deadline.
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.Entry Requirements
A Levels
ABB Including Geography, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer, if you achieve an A in the EPQ.T Levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Accepted subjects: Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction, or Science.BTEC
DDM - Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability or Countryside ManagementScottish highers
AAABB including grade A in Geography, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.Scottish highers advanced
BCC including Geography, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.Irish leaving certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3 including Geography, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.Access course
Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in MathematicsEuropean Baccalaureate
75% including grade 7 in Geography, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.International Baccalaureate
32 points including HL5 in Geography, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.GCSE offer
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.Additional entry requirements
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as:
BSc Environmental Sciences with a Foundation Year.
Important note
Once enrolled onto your course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include your eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
INTO University of East Anglia
If you do not meet the academic and/or English requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO University of East Anglia offers guaranteed progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:
International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering (for Year 1 entry to UEA)
International Foundation in Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences (for Year 1 entry to UEA)
International Foundation in Pharmacy Health and Life Science (for Year 1 entry to UEA)
Students for whom english is a foreign language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 1 entry
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IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in all components) for year 2 entry
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
Gap year
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.

We’re 4th for research quality!

What's included in your fees
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course related costs
View our information about Additional Course Fees.

We’re 4th for research quality!

What's included in your fees
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:

We’re 4th for research quality!

What's included in your fees

We’re 4th for research quality!

What's included in your fees
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