Marine Biology with Conservation

To us at Newquay University Centre Cornwall College, there’s nothing more exciting or enigmatic than our oceans. With so much still undiscovered, our marine habitats are the last of the wild frontiers left to explore. And with human impact on our underwater world at an all-time high, now is the crucial time to better understand and protect it. Our oceans need people who feel a shared desire to get involved with the big issues that we’re facing. To use science to challenge the status quo. To promote progressive change in the people around them through education and positive action.

For over 20 years, Cornwall College Newquay has inspired thousands of students to make that all-important difference, using their passion as a guide.

Where else will you find such a wide range of aquatic habitats within walking distance of where you study? There’s wild and rugged headland, sheltered coves, freshwater streams, saltmarsh and sprawling estuaries. You’ll be living with a Marine Conservation Zone in your back yard. Not to mention, the even wider variety of habitats accessible to you just a short drive away.

This unique location has cultivated a vibrant conservation community to match the surroundings, and your passion for the sea will be in good company. Students can take their pick of what to get involved in, benefiting from our strong ties with likeminded groups, charities and businesses such as Blue Reef Aquarium, Cornwall Wildlife Trust, Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust, Newquay Marine Group, British Divers Marine Life Rescue and many more.

So, what are you waiting for? There’s never been a more important time for you to explore your passion for the science of the sea. Take your next step here in Cornwall and join Generation Restoration.

This course is also available to study part-time over three years.

Assessment A variety of modes including, but not limited to, tests, essays, reports, film, podcasts, presentations, websites and posters.

Progression Most students top up with either BSc (Hons) Applied Marine Zoology one-year top-up or BSc (Hons) Environmental Resource Management one-year top-up. Can also top up with BSc (Hons) Applied Zoology one-year top-up. All are based at Cornwall College Newquay.

The course is a recognised qualification and can lead to relevant jobs in the marine sector. However many jobs ask for BSc (Hons), therefore, applicants decide to undertake the top up BSc course.

We have a proud history of getting students into graduate level jobs: our graduates work for the Environment Agency, Natural England, IFCAs, councils, wildlife charities and public aquaria, they teach in primary and secondary schools, they deliver wildlife guiding, and some have even pursued a research career, with one now working at the internationally renowned Plymouth Marine Laboratory, and two currently in their PhD studies, one studying manta rays and the other researching at the prestigious Marine Biological Association in Plymouth. Graduates from our outgoing science communication FdSc, Wildlife Education and Media, have gone on to work at the RSPB, Newquay Zoo and the BBC, including for Springwatch. Many of these have been in Cornwall and the wider southwest - there are graduate-level jobs here and our students are getting them.

Cornwall College University Centre offers a unique and fulfilling university experience with small class sizes, allowing for personal attention from tutors and a strong sense of community among students. The wrap-around support provided ensures that students receive the necessary guidance and resources to excel in their studies, while studying alongside likeminded individuals who share their passion for vocational technical skills. Located in one of the most beautiful and natural parts of the country, students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings while developing practical skills that set them apart in the job market.