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25% of students drop out or transfer from this specific course. Consider asking why on an open day.

HomeUniversity of PlymouthBSc Ocean Sciences with Foundation Year

BSc Ocean Sciences with Foundation Year

University of Plymouth
Full-time4 YearsSubject: Geography and Earth Sciences
Course Score
A /78
Graduate Salary
£24,500 (3yr)
Satisfaction
88%
Degree Completion
75%
Professional Jobs
65%
Meaningful Work
75%

About this course

Ocean sciences is the study of the marine environment in all its dimensions, from the physics and chemistry of seawater and the geology of the seafloor to the biology of ocean ecosystems and the role of the oceans in regulating the Earth's climate. The oceans cover more than two thirds of the planet's surface and are central to every major environmental cycle, from the carbon cycle and global temperature regulation to biodiversity and food security. Ocean scientists are at the forefront of some of the most urgent research questions facing humanity. At the University of Plymouth, this four-year full-time programme, which includes a foundation year, introduces you to the major global environmental challenges facing society and develops the scientific literacy, independence, and quantitative skills needed to engage with them at degree level. The foundation year builds these foundations systematically, preparing you for the rigour of the main ocean sciences degree, which covers the physical, chemical, biological, and geological dimensions of the marine environment. Plymouth has a strong oceanographic tradition and is located on the coast, giving you direct access to the marine environment as a context for your learning. With a typical entry tariff of 72 UCAS points, the programme with foundation year is designed to be accessible to students who need additional scientific preparation. Ocean sciences graduates are well placed for careers in marine research, environmental consultancy, government environmental agencies, fisheries management, offshore industries, climate and oceanographic science, conservation organisations, and aquaculture. The quantitative and analytical skills developed during the degree are also valued in data science and environmental monitoring roles. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in oceanography, marine biology, climate science, or environmental science.

Syllabus & Modules

Typical curriculum
Year 1 Modules
4 items
Foundations of the Discipline
Core
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Research & Analytical Methods
Core
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Quantitative Literacy
Core
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Communication & Academic Writing
Core
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Year 2 Modules
3 items
Year 3 Modules
3 items
Year 4 Modules
2 items

Student Satisfaction

National Student Survey - 145 respondents (68% response rate)

92%
Teaching Quality
85%
Assessment & Feedback
78%
Academic Support
88%
Organisation
90%
Learning Resources
75%
Student Voice

Tuition FeesVerified

Published annual tuition cost at University of Plymouth.

£9,535
Per academic year (UK Home)
💰

Government Student Loan

Eligible UK students do not pay upfront. Covered by SFE tuition fee loans.

Will I Get In?

120 UCAS Pts
Admissions Probability
Calculate your odds
Predicted Grades

Also Consider

We found 3 similar courses offering Ocean Sciences with Foundation Year where students typically entered with fewer UCAS points.

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Entry Qualifications

A-level
95%
Access
5%

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