Marine and Freshwater Biology

This course has been awarded Interim Advanced Accreditation status. This will become Advanced Accreditation when the first cohort of students graduate from the MBiol degree courses in the summer 2018 (subject to final confirmation from the Royal Society of Biology).

If you wish to study Marine and Freshwater Biology and have career aspirations as an academic or commercial aquatic research scientist, then this exciting course may be for you. Integrated Masters schemes are four-year undergraduate degrees for students with the ability to study to a higher level than the standard BSc degree, and graduate with the Masters level qualification, MBiol (Marine and Freshwater Biology). Integrated Masters students initially study modules of the BSc degree integrated with a further year at M-level, with the opportunity to apply subject-specific knowledge to a major research project, alongside taught modules that develop essential skills required by today’s professional scientists.

Specialist opportunities at Aberystwyth for our Integrated Masters students include:

• Aquarium systems and extensive growth rooms to support aquatic organisms
• Two research vessels for hands-on experience of sampling techniques used by professional aquatic biologists
• Residential field courses in marine and freshwater biology
• Extensive research and teaching labs equipped with the latest equipment, including bioimaging facilities and high-throughput DNA sequencing.

Situated on the coast of Cardigan Bay with a hinterland rich in rivers and lakes, Aberystwyth University is the ideal location to study of Marine and Freshwater Biology. Easily accessible habitats range from mountain streams bearing trout and invertebrates, internationally important estuaries, salt marsh, beaches, reefs and a bay inhabited by a large bottlenose dolphin population. Recent M&F Biology graduates progressed to PhD training or secured jobs with the Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Ribble Rivers Trust, WiseOceans, Pontus Aqua and KAUST Coral Reef Ecology Lab.

Our Staff

The majority of teaching staff at the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences are qualified to PhD level and are research active. Vocational courses also have staff whose background lies within industry.  The Institute has a large number of research only staff with whom students may have contact.

Our 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
• Scientific journalism

This degree also frequently leads to postgraduate research at PhD level or research in public agencies and fisheries labs, charitable marine conservation organisations and the commercial sector.

Study Skills

You will develop an in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of the key contemporary topics in Marine and Freshwater Biology. You will master the research process and contribute to the knowledge base of the subject through your final year research. Throughout this you will encounter many opportunities to develop as a reflective, autonomous researcher. At all times you will have the support of expert academics working at the forefront of their field.

Self-motivation and discipline

Studying to postgraduate level requires discipline and self-motivation. Though you will have access to the expertise and helpful guidance of experienced IBERS staff, you will be responsible for devising and completing a final year research project. This process will strengthen your skills as a self-sufficient worker, a trait prized by all employers.

Transferable Skills

The MBiol (Marine and Freshwater Biology) is designed to give you a range of transferable skills that you can apply in a variety of employment contexts. The course is made up of a number of taught modules plus guided independent student centred study. This provides you with a framework which allows you to develop your subject knowledge, through pursuing specific areas of interest and develop your skills of original thought, analysis, interpretation and reasoning. Regular assessment through reports, essays, seminar presentations, précis and case studies will prepare you for the many demands of the modern workplace.

What work experience opportunities exist whilst studying?

Click here to find out about the various opportunities that our Aberystwyth University Careers team offer. Enhance your employability prospects with GO Wales and YES (Year in Employment Scheme) managed by our Careers department.