BSc (Hons) Marine Biology

Are you fascinated by the oceans and the rich diversity of organisms that inhabit their depths? Marine Biology involves studying these specialised plants and animals, and how they solve the unique problems imposed by the sea’s physical and chemical environment. This course is truly multi-disciplinary. It draws on other biology disciplines, such as ecology and the physical and environmental sciences, to answer questions such as: What determines the distribution of individual organisms and populations? Why are some ocean provinces more productive than others? What impact does human activity have on the health of the oceans? Why are some fisheries sustainable and others not? Marine Systematics and Taxonomy provides you with an advanced understanding of the main systematic groups of marine flora and fauna. You will discover the key physical structures that determine functional groups, how genetic variability determines speciation and the formation of a distinct species of plant or animal, and how these factors relate to habitat and niche preferences, growth and development, and feeding behaviours. Marine Mammal and Turtle Biology gives the opportunity to learn field skills used to study the behaviour, distribution and abundance of large marine vertebrates and provides an overview of the taxonomy, physiology, behaviour, and current research on seals, whales, dolphins and turtles. Issues in Marine Biology examines marine habitats from an ecological perspective, evaluating how they function, assessing species diversity, and importantly, how natural and man-made impacts are affecting this. We will also explore the impact marine organisms have on human society through developments in biotechnology and other uses. Major risks likely to affect these species and habitats are also studied. At the end of the course you will be able to appreciate and understand the diversity of marine species and ecosystems that exist and the major man-made risks affecting them. As a major Scottish industry and employer of marine biology graduates is the aquaculture sector, a module covering aquaculture is integral to the course. Additionally, the Science of Diving module covers diving physiology, practice and safety for scientific investigation, as well as knowledge of alternate methods of underwater environmental assessment. Field courses: you will take part in two field courses in which you will study seashore and inshore marine organisms and marine mammal and turtle biology. An independent research project is a major component of the final year and is often carried out in association with external bodies.(Some of the cost for travel, accommodation and subsistence for the residential field course is borne by the student.)