Marine Biology

Are you fascinated by marine life, exploration and the biology of the sea? In Marine Biology you learn about the diversity of sea life, from the smallest plankton to the largest marine mammals, and investigate their evolution, physiology, ecology and management. You study a range of marine habitats, including sandy beaches, rocky shores, mudflats and estuaries, open ocean and the deep sea, in field- and lab-based practical work.

This programme provides you with a strong foundation in biological sciences, principles and methodologies, while providing you with expertise in marine science. The interdisciplinary nature of marine biology means that you will graduate with a holistic understanding of the sea. Your courses include topics in ocean biology, oceanography, marine ecology, population ecology, international laws and policy related to fisheries management, marine-based renewable energy and aquaculture.

We are recognized internationally for our marine research on the deep sea, harbour seals and dolphins, seabird ecology, fisheries management, fish and shark biology, and marine protected areas. Our breadth of expertise results in training that is both broad and current. Also, in your final year project you benefit from access to our specialist facilities, field stations and research vessels.

Our links with professional and industrial partners, such as Marine Scotland in Aberdeen, The Scottish Association for Marine Sciences in Oban and The North Atlantic Fisheries College Marine Centre in Shetland, mean that you benefit from exposure to policy-makers, practitioners, regulatory professionals and many students take advantage of our collaborators’ facilities and expertise for their research projects or placements.