Marine Zoology BSc Honours

Program Overview

The Marine Zoology BSc (Honours) at Newcastle University is a rigorous three-year program that equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the marine environment. Through hands-on learning, research voyages, and expert instruction, students gain expertise in marine biology, genetics, and conservation. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in research, conservation, environmental consultancy, and other marine-related fields.

Program Outline

Program Analysis: Marine Zoology BSc (Honours) at Newcastle University

Degree Overview:

The Marine Zoology BSc (Honours) at Newcastle University is a rigorous three-year program designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the marine environment while preparing them for diverse career paths within the sector. Aligned with the University's global impact focus, the program emphasizes addressing key challenges such as loss of marine biodiversity, marine conservation, genetics, cellular processes, and organism adaptation. Students will engage in hands-on learning through practical workshops, field investigations, and research voyages aboard the University's research vessel, the Princess Royal. The program leverages the expertise of internationally recognized researchers and provides access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the Dove Marine Laboratory and specialized laboratories equipped for diverse research areas.

Outline:

The program progresses through three stages, each spanning one academic year and totaling 120 credits per stage. Students will delve into various aspects of marine life, covering topics such as form, function, and classification of marine animals; cell biology; genetics; and marine ecosystems. They will gain expertise in practical skills like field sampling, identification, experimental design, data analysis, and writing scientific reports.

Stage 1:

• Explores the basics of marine biology, covering animal diversity, habitats, and the marine environment.
• Introduces fundamental concepts in biology, including cell biology, genetics, and ecology.
• Equips students with essential academic and professional skills for effective scientific communication and research.
• Develops practical skills through laboratory classes and field investigations.

Stage 2:

• Delves into more advanced concepts of marine zoology, including molecular biology and genomics.
• Develops advanced skills in data analysis and scientific writing.

Stage 3:

• Focuses on a research project, conducted either in the UK or overseas, culminating in a scientific paper.
• Integrates various skills acquired throughout the program, including research design, data analysis, and scientific communication.

Assessment:

Assessment methods include a balanced combination of:

• Written exams, testing theoretical knowledge and understanding.
• Practical exams, assessing skills in laboratory and field settings.
• Coursework, including essays, reports, and presentations, evaluating research, analysis, and communication skills.
• Research project, emphasizing independent research, data analysis, and scientific writing.

Teaching:

The program adopts diverse teaching approaches:

• Lectures and seminars, delivered by experts in marine biology, provide theoretical foundations.
• Laboratory practicals, conducted in modern laboratories and field stations, enable hands-on learning and skill development.
• Research vessel practicals offer students unique opportunities to study diverse marine environments and acquire research skills.
• Field trips to diverse locations, including the Isle of Cumbrae and overseas destinations, deepen knowledge of marine ecology and biodiversity.
• Research projects provide a platform for independent research and application of acquired knowledge and skills.
• Small group tutorials offer individualized support and guidance.

Careers:

Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue diverse career paths in various sectors related to marine science, including:

• Research and academia: pursuing postgraduate studies or conducting research in universities, research institutes, or government agencies.
• Conservation and management: working in organizations dedicated to protecting marine ecosystems and biodiversity.
• Environmental consultancy: providing expertise in environmental assessments and impact studies.
• Education and outreach: engaging in public education or training programs to raise awareness about marine issues.
• Aquaculture and fisheries: contributing to sustainable fish production and management.
• Students have opportunities to undertake work placements or study abroad to gain valuable industry experience and global perspectives.
• The program emphasizes the development of transferable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork, preparing graduates for a range of professional opportunities.

Home students

Full time: 3 years Tuition fees (per year) £9,250

International students

Full time: 3 years Tuition fees (per year) £28,700