Marine Biology - Foundation Degree

You will need a minimum of 80 UCAS points (excluding Functional Skills) in relevant discipline or subject area:

• BB from at least one of the following A levels - Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography or Environmental Science
• MMP from Extended Diploma or DM from Diploma in appropriate discipline such as Applied Science, Animal Management
• Mathematic and English Language GCSE at grade C/4 or above
• Applicants for whom English is not their first language are expected to achieve a minimum 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component
• International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 29 overall including 5 or above in English at standard level

We will also consider applicants who can demonstrate relevant work/voluntary experience on an individual basis.

The programme aims to:

- Raise your awareness of the complexity of the organisation of life forms, from molecules to ecosystems.

- Help you understand the impact of human activity on the marine environment.

- Provide you with a research-informed science education, which builds subject knowledge alongside developing your practical and field work skills.

- Ensure you understand the relevant safety and ethical issues which can accompany work in the field.

- Develop your understanding of the variation in natural systems and their evolution, alongside the appropriate use of hypothesis testing and statistical analysis, required to ensure valid conclusions are made from yours and others' investigations.

- Encourage a creative and academic approach to study, including an appreciation of the value of current hypotheses, coupled to an appreciation of the uncertainty inherent in science.

- Foster transferable skills such as team working, leadership and communication skills through providing appropriate developmental opportunities within and around the curriculum

Scheduled Learning

Scheduled time relates to the time you spend in directed study with the guidance and support of our academic tutors. Scheduled learning can take a variety of forms and will vary from one course to the next, but may include lectures, seminars, tutorials, project supervision, demonstrations, studio or workshop time, fieldwork and external visits.

Independent Study

Higher education courses rely on students undertaking work outside of formal, scheduled sessions and this is generally categorised as independent study. Independent study might include preparation for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks and revision.

Placement

Many of the degree programmes at B&FC incorporate opportunities for work placements to provide you with the opportunity to link your studies to relevant professional practice in a real work environment. Our programme teams are able to offer support in securing an appropriate work placement where it forms part of your programme, and will work closely with you during the placement to ensure that the opportunity allows you to develop personally, professionally and academically.

Expert Tutors

All staff involved in the delivery of higher education courses within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver. The approval process ensures that staff delivering a given programme are appropriately qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice.

Upon successful completion of the Foundation Degree you can progress onto the BSc Honours top-up year. Our graduates have ultimately progressed onto level 7 courses, including Masters Degrees at Bangor, Lancaster, Herriot-Watt (Edinburgh) and Edge Hill Universities and also onto PGCE programmes here at B&FC and at Bangor University.

Others have progressed to employment with a variety of organisations such as North West Fisheries, APEM Ltd Environmental Consultants, Natural England and Merlin Entertainment (Sealife Centre).