BSc (Hons) Marine and Freshwater Biology

The study of Marine and Freshwater Biology is more relevant than ever before. Aquatic habitats are of huge importance in regulating the health of the global ecosystem and at the same time are profoundly impacted by rapid environmental change. The aim of this programme is to deliver state-of-the-art, research-led teaching on the biological, ecological and evolutionary processes underlying both marine and freshwater ecosystems. Our teaching is guided by the most recent advances in genetics, molecular methods, data collection and quantitative analyses to form a solid background in conservation of marine and freshwater ecosystems.
This degree on aquatic biology is unique in the UK for covering both marine and freshwater ecosystems. Youll have many opportunities for hands-on experience with field work, through our residential national and international field courses, the Exploration Society expeditions and a range of field work and volunteering possibilities within or outside Glasgow university. Many of our students have seen their own research papers published in scientific journals.
Youll be taught by world-leading marine biologists, physiologicst, ecologists, and evolutionary biologists, whose research is making a world-changing impact in areas such as biodiversity and conservation of vulnerable marine and freshwater ecosystems, disease transmission, water quality assessment, environmental change, animal evolution and adaptation. This degree programme is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology. We have an Exploration Society to help you organise and conduct scientific expeditions in all parts of the world.
Our Marine and Freshwater Biology degree has extensive course sharing with the Zoology degree programme in terms of critical skills that are necessary for any future career and animal biology more specifically, but also includes more specialised courses related to aquatic environments. This means that there are a wide range of career options available related to both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The skills, knowledge and credentials of our Marine and Freshwater Biology graduates enable them to access and excel at a wide range of job types, such as: environmental consulting, academic research, education, science photography and film making, science journalism, conservation, environmental impact assessment, aquaria management/keeping, business, museum curation, lab managers/technicians, and various industries.

SQA Higher entry requirements
ABBB is the minimum requirement from S5 to be reviewed for an S6 offer
Offers are not guaranteed to applicants who meet the minimum from S5
Typically offers will be made at AAAAA by end of S6. B at Advanced Higher is equivalent to A at Higher
Additional requirements: Higher Biology or Chemistry. (A in either).

SQA Higher adjusted entry requirements* (by end of S5 or S6)
MD20: BBBB (also other target groups*)
MD40: AABB (ABB S5 minimum for consideration)*
Additional requirements: Higher Biology or Chemistry. Successful completion of Top-Up or one of our Summer Schools.

A-level standard entry requirements
AAB BBB
Additional requirements: A-level Biology or Chemistry.

IB standard entry requirements
34 (6,5,5)
Additional requirements: HL Biology or Chemistry.
Advanced entry requirements for Marine & Freshwater Biology
SQA Higher advanced entry requirements
Advanced Highers AAA including Biology and Chemistry attained in one exam year and at the first attempt.

A-level advanced entry requirements
Three A-levels at grades A*AA which include Biology and Chemistry attained in one exam year and at the first attempt.

IB advanced entry requirements
38 points with three Higher Level subjects at 6,6,6 including Biology and Chemistry attained in one exam year and at the first attempt.
Choose point of entry 2nd year on your UCAS application to indicate you wish to be considered for advanced entry.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic module (not General Training)
6.5 with no sub-test under 6.0.

TOEFL (ib, my best or athome)
90 with minimum R 20, L 19, S 19, W 23.