Marine and Freshwater Biology (with integrated year in industry) BSc (Hons)

Aberystwyth University

If you are interested in enhancing your career prospects, our four-year Bachelor of Science honours degree in Marine and Freshwater Biology with an integrated year in industry at Aberystwyth University will be for you. Situated on the coast of Cardigan Bay with a hinterland rich in rivers, streams and lakes, Aberystwyth University is the ideal location to study Marine and Freshwater Biology. Easily accessible habitats range from mountain streams bearing salmon and trout and unique habitats for freshwater invertebrates, through estuaries of international importance, to sandy beaches, rocky reefs, salt marsh and a bay that is home to the largest residential population of bottlenose dolphins in the UK.

You will be taught by enthusiastic teaching experts, who you may have already seen on TV documentaries or heard on your favourite radio show. We have two research vessels that give you hands-on experience of the range of skills used by professional marine and freshwater biologists.

The department has a modern aquarium facilities aquarium systems for experimental studies of marine and freshwater organisms. We have a wonderful museum and herbarium full of historic specimens collected from around the globe by generations of famous Aberystwyth University scientists. You will be able to participate in two residential field courses, each focused on either marine or freshwater biology. You will be taught by research-active staff at the forefront of knowledge, and emerge from your course with the competencies and skills to forge a career in this fascinating field of science.

The syllabus of this course with the integrated year in industry is identical to its sister course BSc Marine and Freshwater Biology (C164). Your work experience must be relevant to this degree as it will be assessed and will count towards your degree grade. You will organise your work experience under the guidance of our Director for Employability. There is no guarantee that the work experience will be paid. If you cannot obtain a placement, you must transfer to the sister course BSc Marine and Freshwater Biology C164. Make no mistake, you will develop confidence and gaining experience in the industry will stimulate your enthusiasm for the subject.

Completing a year in industry will allow you to: Apply the learning from your course to the work environment; Make industry contacts; Develop practical skills related to your area of study; Apply your practical skills and technical knowledge after returning to study; Enhance your CV and better prepare yourself for a job after graduating. Marine and Freshwater Biology graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to enter a wide range of careers including ecological consultancy, environmental management and conservation, teaching and scientific journalism. This scheme also frequently leads to postgraduate research at Masters and PhD level.