Ocean Science BSc (Hons)
Bangor , United Kingdom
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Ocean Science
Prifysgol Bangor University
Ocean Science
Ocean Science BSc (Hons) Program Overview
The Ocean Science BSc (Hons) at Bangor University encompasses the study of all aspects of the global marine environment, from estuaries and coasts to the deep ocean. This multidisciplinary degree applies specialist scientific disciplines including biology, chemistry, geology, mathematics, and physics to understand the complex Earth-Ocean-Atmosphere system.
The program provides a rigorous multidisciplinary foundation together with specialised training across a wide range of marine topics. Practical and field skills are a particular highlight of the course, with local fieldwork taking place in the UNESCO-designated GeoMon Geopark, Snowdonia National Park, the Menai Strait, and the Irish Sea.
Bangor University is one of the largest university centres teaching marine sciences in Britain, with over 50 years of experience in research and teaching across the full breadth of ocean sciences. The program offers a high degree of flexibility and choice, allowing you to develop your own particular strengths and interests across biology, chemistry, geology, and physics pathways.
Key Program Highlights
- Access to a fully equipped sea-going research vessel, supercomputers, and state-of-the-art oceanographic survey equipment
- Unique coastal location between Snowdonia mountains and the Menai Strait providing unrivalled fieldwork opportunities
- Optional Placement Year and International Experience Year pathways available to enhance your career prospects
- Flexible module choices across biology, chemistry, geology, and physics allowing you to specialise in your preferred area of marine science
Curriculum and Modules
The Ocean Science BSc (Hons) curriculum is designed to build a strong multidisciplinary foundation in your first year before allowing increasing specialisation. You will develop both theoretical knowledge and practical field skills through a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, and extensive fieldwork in diverse marine environments.
Introduction to Ocean Science
20 creditsA foundational module introducing the key principles of oceanography, including the physical, chemical, biological, and geological processes that govern the world's oceans and coastal environments.
Marine Biology and Ecology
20 creditsExplores the diversity of marine organisms, their adaptations to ocean environments, and the ecological interactions that shape marine ecosystems from coral reefs to the deep sea.
Physical Oceanography
20 creditsExamines ocean circulation, tides, waves, and the physical processes governing ocean dynamics. Covers how the ocean interacts with the atmosphere and cryosphere within the Earth system.
Chemical Oceanography
20 creditsStudies the chemical composition and processes of seawater, including nutrient cycles, carbon chemistry, and the chemical interactions between the ocean and atmosphere.
Geological Oceanography
20 creditsInvestigates the geological structure and history of the ocean floor, sedimentary processes, plate tectonics, and the geological record of past ocean environments and climate change.
Research Project in Ocean Science
40 creditsA final-year independent research project allowing you to conduct original scientific investigation in your chosen area of marine science, developing advanced research and analytical skills.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
Bangor University welcomes applications from students with a broad range of qualifications. The university offers flexibility in meeting entry requirements and considers combinations of qualifications as well as alternative Level 3 qualifications. All applications and inquiries are handled through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- A-Levels112-128 UCAS tariff points, including minimum grades CC in two science subjects (Biology, Geography, Environmental Studies, Chemistry, Maths, Statistics, Geology, Physics, or Computing)
- BTEC National Extended DiplomaDMM-DDM in Applied Science or related subject
- International BaccalaureateContact Uni4Edu for current IB requirements
- Access to HE DiplomaAccess to HE in Science with a Pass required; other subjects considered on a case-by-case basis
- International QualificationsSchool leaving qualifications equivalent to A-Levels or Level 3 qualifications are accepted from countries worldwide, subject to minimum English language requirements
English Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicOverall score of 6.0 with no individual component below 5.5
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for equivalent TOEFL score requirements
- PTE AcademicContact Uni4Edu for equivalent PTE score requirements
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Bangor University offers bursaries and scholarships worth over GBP 1,000,000 annually for new and returning students. International students are automatically considered for several scholarship schemes when they submit their application through Uni4Edu. Contact Uni4Edu for full details on eligibility and how to maximise your funding opportunities.
Bangor University International Scholarship
Up to GBP 4,000Available to international undergraduate students, this partial funding scholarship is awarded based on course choice, academic performance, personal statement, references, and relevant experience. No separate application is required as all international applicants are automatically considered.
Bangor University Merit Scholarship
Up to GBP 10,000A competitive scholarship for both undergraduate and postgraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement. This partial funding award recognises outstanding academic performance and potential.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Ocean Science BSc (Hons) program are well-prepared for careers in a rapidly growing sector. Understanding how the oceans work is key to addressing global challenges including climate change prediction, renewable tidal energy, marine conservation, and sustainable resource management. The program's emphasis on practical and field skills gives graduates a competitive edge in the job market.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings and Recognition
Bangor University is a well-established institution founded in 1884 with a strong reputation in environmental and ocean sciences. The university is listed across multiple international and national ranking systems and is particularly recognised for its research strength, with 85% of its research rated as world-leading or internationally excellent in the REF2021 assessment.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Sciences | QS World Subject Rankings | Top 350 |
| Agriculture and Forestry | QS World Subject Rankings | Top 150 |
| Earth and Marine Sciences | University Guru | #239 |
| Biology | QS World Subject Rankings | Top 650 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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