Information for Prospective Undergraduates

Marine and Freshwater Biology Degree

Marine and Freshwater Biology degree - 3 years (C164)

Marine and Freshwater Biology at Aberystwyth

Aquatic habitats have long held a fascination for the biologist; and today the issues of aquatic biology are more impotant than ever. Every kind of living organism depends ultimately on water, so that the challenges to biodiversity made by climate change are one key focus of the Marine and Freshwater Biology degree at Aberystwyth University. The beauty and diversity of the organisms in marine, freshwater and brackish water environments is unrivalled, and a challenge to ecologists, physiologists and taxonomists in their endeavours to understand these complex ecosystems. Aquatic habitats are heavily exploited by commercial fisheries, and our coastal waters, lakes and rivers have high recreation and conservation value. You will investigate all aspects of aquatic biology in your Marine and Freshwater Biology degree at Aberystywth.

Situated on the coast of Cardigan Bay with a hinterland rich in rivers, streams and lakes, Aberystwyth is an ideal location for the study of marine and freshwater biology. Accessible habitats range from mountain streams bearing salmon and trout, through estuaries of international importance to an inshore bay which is home to one of the two resident populations of bottlenosed dolphins in the UK.

Marine and Freshwater Biology degree course structure

Year 1

This modular degree scheme provides you with an integrated approach to the study of marine and freshwater biology. It aims to develop your understanding of the principles and concepts of aquatic biology, and to provide you with an insight into the complexities of managing aquatic habitats. Your first year provides a solid foundation in the biological sciences with modules that explore the lives of invertebrates and vertebrates, animal physiology, ecology, genetics and evolution, and cell biology.

Years 2 and 3

During the second and third years you will study modules which include the ecology, physiology and genetics of marine and freshwater organisms. Core modules that enable you to study both the pure and applied aspects of aquatic biology are supported by optional modules which give you the opportunity to develop your own interests. Practical classes and field work are important throughout the course, and full advantage is taken of the Institute's particularly favourable location for the acquisition of field skills. Residential field courses at the Marine Biological Station in Millport on the Isle of Great Cumbrae (Marine Biology) and at the Scottish Centre for Ecology and the Natural Environment, Loch LOmond (Freshwater Biology) are core elements of this degree scheme.

Research and individual project work are key elements in the final year. You will undertake group-based research which allows you to study in depth aspects of, for example, aquatic biodiversity or the impact of climate change on aquatic habitats. You will also undertake an individual research project in an area of your choice giving further opportunity to develop field and laboratory skills.

Detailed Course Structure

Careers related to your Marine and Freshwater Biology degree

Marine and Freshwater Biology graduates have a wide range of career opportunities. They may find employment with a range of statutory bodies, including fisheries and conservation agencies, and with the increasing number of sea life centres and aquaria. Whatever career path you choose, after your Marine and Freshwater Biology degree, you will have been equipped with the transferable skills of research, analysis, problem-solving and reporting which are highly valued by prospective employers in all sectors of the economy.