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SUBJECT Marine and Ocean Edition

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University of Plymouth Drake Circus Plymouth Devon PL4 8AA United Kingdom Marine courses

Marine and Ocean Edition

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SUBJECT

FEATURES: P.8 Which degree is right for me? Learn more about our range of different courses within the marine and ocean science subject areas.

It’s never too early to start thinking about what you would like to do after school or college, or you may be considering a change in career. At Plymouth, we know that choosing a university and course is a big decision. While you may have an idea of a profession, career or industry that you’re aspiring towards, if you’re unsure of exactly what you want to do, or, are keen to find out more – this is where our handy subject guide comes in.

P.16 Discover our facilities. Learn more about the facilities our students use as part of their studies.

Meet some of this issue’s contributors:

Paul Paul discusses his placement experiences. P. 22

Antony Antony shares his experience as a student at Plymouth. P.34

Samuel Samuel shares his experiences from his time at Plymouth. P. 38

P.28 What can a placement do for you? Learn more about placement opportunities.

E XPLO R E YO UR FU T UR E H O M E Visit us at an Open Day

Virtual tour Welcome to our city

When it comes to finding out if university feels right for you, nothing compares to an open day. Talk to current students and quiz lecturers about your course. You can register to attend here plymouth.ac.uk/open-days

Experience first-hand what it is like to be on campus and explore the environments and facilities that inspire and shape our learning every day. Step into one of our campus buildings and picture yourself studying here with us.

P.32 Carving a career? Learn more about the careers support available at the University.

Information correct at time of going to print – September 2026

10 R E ASON S TO S TU DY AT PLYMOU TH Marine and Ocean Sciences are incredibly broad subject areas covering a huge range of disciplines. Are you ready to start your journey to create a more sustainable future, that fits your interests and passions? We’ve listed our top 10 reasons for studying in Plymouth, to help in your decision making.

1. BENEFIT FROM FIELDWORK, NEAR AND FAR

Throughout your time studying in Plymouth, you will have opportunities to put theory into practice on a range of field trips, both locally and internationally. Students have visited diverse environments, from the miles of South West UK coastline to the KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa, the Maldives, Bali, Sweden and the Algarve, Portugal. All of these add value to your degree, as well as enhancing your employability.

2. TAUGHT BY EXPERTS

Plymouth boasts one of the highest concentrations of marine scientists in Europe. With our seafront location and links with internationally renowned research institutions, you’ll be joining a hub of activity for the study of marine life. Throughout your course, you'll be taught by academics who are engaged in a wide range of research projects on the latest advances in the marine sector. The Marine Biological Association, Diving Diseases Research Centre, and Plymouth Marine Laboratory are just some of the marine research organisations in Plymouth.

3. GAIN REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE AS YOU STUDY An optional work placement year can be taken on all courses after your second year, either in the UK or overseas. We highly encourage this as it can give you a deeper understanding of working within industry, as well as the possibility of employment after graduation. As well as this, we can offer opportunities for short-term placements working alongside researchers here at the University of Plymouth.

4. TAILOR YOUR DEGREE TO FIT YOUR INTERESTS

Everyone’s interests are different, and at this stage, you may not know what they are just yet. At Plymouth, we give you the flexibility to tailor your degree to your specific passions. Having this option really does give you the opportunity to explore all that we can offer, helping you to understand the field and what you might like to do in the future.

5. LEARN IN OUR CUTTING-EDGE FACILITIES

While studying with us here in Plymouth, you will have the opportunity to use our cutting-edge facilities, purpose-built to help with your studies. The University houses Europe’s first 5G Nikon microscope laboratory. As well as this, you will have access to LABplus, and, right on the water, our Marine Station and our own fleet of vessels which operate in Plymouth Sound and beyond. You'll be out on the water from the start, taking part in group practicals and individual project work using a variety of technically advanced equipment and techniques.

6. GRADUATE READY FOR EMPLOYMENT

We aim to develop graduates' knowledge, understanding and practical experience in key areas of marine biology, conservation and ocean science. Our graduates are employed in a wide range of careers, including environmental monitoring, pollution control, hydrographic surveying, marine consultancy, conservation, aquaculture and fisheries management, and in teaching and research activities at all levels.

8. OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN TO DIVE PROFESSIONALLY

FIND OUT MORE about our professional diving opportunities:

7. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF PLYMOUTH’S REPUTATION

As you find out more about us, we hope you’ll recognise our facilities, expertise and the enthusiasm of our staff and students are second to none. Plymouth has an unrivalled reputation for the quality of its Marine, Conservation and Ocean science courses, and over the past 25 years our graduates have achieved great successes. We’d love for you to join our community on your own path to success!

Many students will have developed an interest in the ocean through their diving experiences and can maintain this through the fantastic opportunities for recreational diving in Devon and Cornwall with the SCUBA society. For those who wish to pursue the HSE SCUBA qualification (additional costs do apply), this is delivered at our Marine Station. This course will allow you to work, once trained, as a paid professional scientific diver, both in the UK and overseas.

9. BE SUPPORTED BY THOSE AROUND YOU

We take special pride in the level and quality of our student support by friendly and approachable professors, lecturers and other staff. You will have a personal tutor who will provide academic and personal support and guidance throughout your years at Plymouth. This helps you plan and reflect on your learning and to apply it to personally relevant objectives and opportunities. A wide range of specialist advice is available, including a dedicated study skills unit, providing online support and workshops to support your learning.

10. ENJOY THE PLACE YOU’LL CALL HOME

Plymouth is Britain’s Ocean City, home of the UK’s first National Marine Park and one of the UK’s most sustainable cities. With Dartmoor National Park and the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on its doorstep, Plymouth has no shortage of outdoor activities. The city has just under ten miles of coastline and plenty of beaches, to keep you busy whether on land or sea.

WHICH DEGREE IS RIGHT FOR ME?

We aim to deliver courses that: • offer a broad, relevant and contemporary curriculum, enriched by the scholarly activity of staff • provide unrivalled hands on learning through lab practical sessions, fieldwork and working on our research vessels • challenge, stimulate, enthuse and encourage students.

BSc (Hons) MARINE BIOLOGY This course has a primary focus on the understanding of marine life at the level of the biology of organisms – ranging from the microbes found on coral reefs to the physiology and behaviour of marine vertebrates. The evolution and diversity of marine organisms are core concepts. FIND OUT MORE about our BSc (Hons) Marine Biology course

BSc (Hons) MARINE BIOLOGY AND COASTAL ECOLOGY This course has an emphasis on biodiversity and ecology. The course takes a cross-system approach, from looking at the integration of the ecology of the catchments that feed rivers, which in turn feed coastal seas, to studying marine biology; encouraging you to understand marine systems within a global context. Such an approach is highly relevant when

considering the large-scale nature of the current threats to marine and coastal organisms and ecosystems from humans and climate change. FIND OUT MORE about our BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology course

BSc (Hons) MARINE BIOLOGY AND OCEANOGRAPHY This course is focused on the study of integrating ocean and coastal processes with marine life. The course provides an in-depth study of the biology of the ocean but is set in the context of the influence of the physical and chemical environment on marine organisms. The course covers both theoretical and practical aspects, enabling you to acquire skills relevant to the challenges facing marine scientists today. Practical sessions provide a sound experience of biological and oceanographic techniques. FIND OUT MORE about our BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography course

BSc (Hons) MARINE CONSERVATION This course is designed to equip the next generation of marine conservation leaders with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to make a lasting impact on the future of our oceans. The course combines marine sciences, conservation science, and the social sciences, equipping you with a broad skill set that enhances your employability. You'll graduate ready to tackle a diverse range of marine conservation challenges. FIND OUT MORE about our BSc (Hons) Marine Conservation course

BSc (Hons) OCEAN SCIENCE This course will equip you with the practical skills needed to collect and analyse data from the marine environment alongside an advanced understanding of the dynamics that shape the marine ecosystem, and physical environment. Your knowledge will enable you to address challenges that include marine habitat protection, ocean circulation, and the impacts of sea-level rise on coastal erosion. FIND OUT MORE about our BSc (Hons) Ocean Science course

BSc (Hons) OCEAN EXPLORATION AND SURVEYING This course will equip you with handson skills and expert knowledge to explore, map and measure the seafloor. You'll be equipped for an exciting and varied global career in hydrographic surveying, marine autonomy, renewable energy, sustainable environmental management, and more. Using industrystandard equipment and software on our fleet of survey vessels, you’ll build the practical and advanced skills industry demands. FIND OUT MORE about our BSc (Hons) Ocean Exploration and Surveying course

BSc (Hons) OCEAN SCIENCE AND MARINE CONSERVATION This course combines an understanding of ocean and coastal processes with knowledge of marine ecosystems and the tools we have to protect and conserve them. You will gain a grounding in how the ocean works and understand how best to develop marine management for conservation success. With a strong focus on realworld application you will graduate with a diverse skill set ranging from handson fieldwork to critical thinking and will be equipped to enter a wide range of careers in ocean science and marine conservation. FIND OUT MORE about our BSc (Hons) Ocean Science and Marine Conservation course

Take your passion for marine biology further with our research-focused integrated master’s. MSci MARINE BIOLOGY Explore the breadth of marine biology by choosing one of three pathways, aligned with our Marine Biology degree programmes. In your final year, move beyond studying research to becoming part of it, joining an active research team, using cutting-edge facilities, and working alongside world-leading experts to prepare for a career in marine biology. FIND OUT MORE about our MSci Marine Biology course

Our three foundation routes lead on to one of our BSc programmes. These Foundation Years are designed to build confidence, scientific skills and knowledge needed to progress on to our degree programmes. BSc (Hons) MARINE BIOLOGY WITH FOUNDATION YEAR Subject to meeting progression criteria, you will automatically progress to year 1 of one of our three Marine Biology degrees. FIND OUT MORE about our BSc (Hons) Marine Biology with Foundation Year course

BSc (Hons) MARINE CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY WITH FOUNDATION YEAR Subject to meeting progression criteria, you will automatically progress to year 1 of either BSc Marine Conservation or BSc Ecology and Conservation. FIND OUT MORE about our BSc (Hons) Marine Conservation and Ecology with Foundation Year course

BSc (Hons) OCEAN SCIENCES WITH FOUNDATION YEAR Subject to meeting progression criteria, you will automatically progress to year 1 of one of the Ocean Science degrees. FIND OUT MORE about our BSc (Hons) Ocean Sciences with Foundation Year course

WHICH DEGREE IS RIGHT FOR ME?

We have lots of exciting degree opportunities to choose from. The table below highlights some of the key topics across our different courses, this might help you to choose a course based on your interests and passions. SUBJECT

MBCE

MBO

OES

BIODIVERSITY BIOLOGY OF MARINE ORGANISMS CONSERVATION CONSERVATION POLICY & PLANNING DEEP SEA LIFE ECOLOGY ECOLOGICAL SURVEYS ECOPHYSIOLOGY HYDROGRAPHIC SURVEYS MARINE AUTONOMY OCEAN FLOOR/DEEP SEABED PHYSICAL OCEAN PROCESSES/OCEANOGRAPHY PHYSICAL OCEAN SURVEYS REMOTE SENSING SOCIOECOLOGICAL ISSUES IN CONSERVATION KEY MB

OES

OCEAN EXPLORATION AND SURVEYING

MBCE MARINE BIOLOGY AND COASTAL ECOLOGY

OCEAN SCIENCE

MBO MARINE BIOLOGY AND OCEANOGRAPHY

OSMC OCEAN SCIENCE AND MARINE CONSERVATION

MARINE BIOLOGY

MARINE CONSERVATION

OSMC

OUR FIELD TRIPS AND FIELDWORK Fieldwork presents opportunities to apply your knowledge to different environments, and to consolidate your practical skills. In the field, you will get the opportunity to use industry-standard equipment and perform scientific research techniques. Field trip locations for our courses have included the Bahamas, Sweden, Portugal, South Africa, Maldives, Bali and the Isles of Scilly.*

*Locations are subject to change.

d t ent

STUDENTS GAIN EXPERIENCE OF REAL-LIFE RESEARCH, INVESTIGATING MARINE ISSUES IN A WIDE VARIETY OF PLACES. The skills gained from fieldwork are highly sought after by many different employers and include: • teamwork • data and sample collection and analysis • scientific writing • problem-solving

• experience using a wide variety

of industry standard scientific equipment and technology. We are proud to provide an extensive range of fieldwork opportunities, both locally, making the most out of our privileged location, and internationally. We believe that worthwhile and responsible international travel provides an important context for

us to better understand how marine processes, environments, biology, ecosystems and conservation interact and differ across the world. This international theme is also a core part of our focus on finding solutions to global challenges. Graduates from our courses will be well prepared to contribute to employers all over the world.

“The University gave us the opportunity to go to the Bahamas! It was the highlight of my degree, not simply because we got to see sharks and coral reef but also because we were part of real conservation efforts on real-world issues, which will certainly help grow my career. The field trip also brought us close together as peers. Living together on a research base did wonderful

things for the relationships between students, and also with the staff members attending the trips. Since the fieldwork, I feel so much more confident with approaching members of staff for career advice and academic support, and they are so welcoming.” Samuel, BSc (Hons) Ocean Science and Marine Conservation

“My favourite memory of Plymouth is probably the field trip to Portugal: partly for the weather, as it’s pretty rare to be doing science in the blistering sun. But in all seriousness the group research projects were great and it’s amazing how much you can learn in a week. Plymouth gave me a good grounding in persevering with work and research. This has been, and will be, important in overcoming challenges.” Tom, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology

ON THE WATERFRONT – THE MARINE STATION Situated on the shores of Plymouth Sound, the Marine Station offers labs and classrooms and is the base for our research vessels. It is also a centre of excellence for diving, a wet laboratory used for sample examination and analysis, and a seawater aquarium which allows samples to be collected, stored, examined and returned to the sea with minimal disturbance.

“In my first year, going on RV Falcon Spirit for the first time was my first taste of doing 'offshore' work, and being able to get hands on with some of the equipment was a real eye-opener to the sheer breadth of research you can do in the marine environment. Using equipment like the ADCPs and temperature salinity profilers was really cool.” Paul, BSc (Hons) Ocean Exploration and Surveying

“One of the main reasons I came to study at Plymouth was the facilities and the fact that I could use them and that they weren’t reserved for research and external bookings. It was great being able to use equipment that I would be using out in the field – it really helped me to develop a deeper understanding of the field.” Luke, BSc (Hons) Marine Biology

RESEARCH VESSELS The Marine Station is the base for our fleet of vessels, which you will use during practical sessions, individual project work and research. You will have the opportunity to use these facilities for several different things, spanning the collection of seabed and water samples, to the acquisition of hydrographic survey and oceanographic datasets. Pride of place in our fleet goes to RV Falcon Spirit, a 14 metre catamaran that is used extensively for oceanographic

and biological sampling as well as hydrographic surveys. Other vessels include Wavedancer, a South Cat 11 metre (36 feet) Mk11 catamaran, and three types of small powerboats namely Polar Cirkel workboats, an Orkney DayAngler and an Arancia inflatable. LEARN MORE about our full fleet:

INSTRUMENTATION Our instrumentation includes the latest oceanographic and hydrographic survey sensors, including an acoustic doppler current profiler, a multi-beam echo-sounder, a towed undulating conductivitytemperature-depth system, an automatic weather station installed on Mount Batten Tower, and specialist software for data analysis and visualisation.

ON CAMPUS As well as our incredible facilities at the Marine Station, we have a host of specialist labs and study spaces on campus, which you will use throughout your studies.

We’re partnered with Nikon Industrial Metrology Business Unit and Ostec Instruments to house Europe’s first 5G microscope lab, which transforms the learning experience, enabling students to get up close with science in a way that they haven’t before. Comprising 150 microscopes, the labs have been created for you to look at a range of biological samples. LABplus is a flexible learning space designed to support students with their studies, practical work and laboratory skills. It provides group study space for students with portable, digital touch screen monitors, digitally enabled microscopes and a wide range of resources.

The Marie Lebour Marine Biology Research Facility is a state-of-the-art aquatic laboratory. It is home to facilities operating with flexible capabilities to replicate temperate to tropical conditions, freshwater to full strength marine water, and full lighting control, enabling precise studies across four distinct laboratory spaces. These include a tailored Coral Spawning Laboratory equipped with a thermal stress system, intertidal simulation chambers, flow through systems, RAS systems, shrimp aquaculture systems, and advanced imaging for embryo development. Students can use this space for their final year research projects.

PAUL'S STORY BSc (Hons) Ocean Exploration and Surveying

THE OCEAN AND CLIMATE CHANGE Doing the ocean science pathways can give you the right knowledge on how the ocean responds to climate change and biodiversity loss. Much of the lecture content in first and second year puts a lot of emphasis on the global ocean and how physical and chemical processes occur, and how we can monitor them to see how they’re changing.

CHOOSE WHAT INTERESTS YOU I would definitely recommend studying ocean science at Plymouth. The three different courses really do give you a choice of pathways you can pursue depending on what interests you, and you can choose to change your pathway in your second year if you like. The lecturers are always passionate about their work and it inspires you to really get stuck in!

PLYMOUTH – THE HOME OF MARINE The University had what a lot of other universities offering ocean science degrees didn’t. The University has several research vessels, lots of ocean monitoring equipment, and a building designed for the marine science students. Plymouth is also a great place for anything ocean related; there are a good few spots to go free diving! Plymouth Sound has such a diversity of marine life and habitats that are definitely worth exploring.

EVERYONE HELPS! The academics have been there every step of the way. You can drop them an email with questions and concerns and they’re so helpful. In my final year, my project advisor agreed to help me with my dissertation despite it being unrelated to his field. The support staff are also brilliant at what they do; the Marine Station technicians were really helpful to me when it came to collecting my dissertation data, and a chat with one of them inspired me to change my degree pathway.

MY CAREER GOALS I want to go into the offshore surveying and defence industries. The University has an amazing careers service, with staff who can help you write your CV, do mock interviews, and put you in touch with the right people in the industry to find out more.

ROSE'S STORY BSc (Hons) Marine Biology

WHY DID YOU DECIDE THAT THE UNIVERSITY OF PLYMOUTH WAS THE RIGHT PLACE FOR YOU TO PURSUE MARINE BIOLOGY? Being an international student, I didn’t have the opportunity to attend the open day and had to base my decision on pictures, facilities and reviews, and Plymouth seemed to excel in all those aspects. Getting in touch with the Faculty of Science and Engineering greatly helped my decision making too as I was put in touch with one of the Marine lecturers who cleared all my queries and basically sold the course to me! The University offers an immersive setting ideal for hands-on learning, whether dissecting specimens under high-powered microscopes,

performing experiments to analyse water quality parameters, or going on field trips to Roscoff and Portugal to study coastal ecosystems.

“In addition, facilities such as the career services and LABplus were great tools to boost my understanding of marine biology. “ The Careers Service has been instrumental in shaping the professional aspect of university for me and prepared me for the dynamic world outside of academia. As it can be especially challenging being an international student, the Careers Service team provided invaluable

guidance and support, through personalised career counselling sessions, workshop, and networking events. From refining my CV and honing my interview skills, to exploring internship opportunities and connecting with industry professionals, their approach has equipped me with the skills needed to navigate my prospects after university. WOULD YOU RECOMMEND UNDERTAKING MARINE BIOLOGY WITH THE UNIVERSITY, AND IF SO, WHY? I would highly recommend going for marine biology at Plymouth, as one of its highlights is having the sea at its doorstep with a well-equipped Marine Station, where you will be spending half your time, from observing a variety of marine organisms to doing water sampling on boats. To add to it,

Plymouth holds a profound and experienced set of experts for marine biology who widen your interest in the subject, with a willingness to go above and beyond to provide support and hands-on learning experiences which are transformative.

TAKING RESEARCH SKILLS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

At the University of Plymouth, research isn’t confined to laboratories or lecture theatres, it happens on shorelines, in forests, mangroves, across rural communities, and out on the open ocean. Our research expeditions give students the chance to step into real‑world environments, work alongside leading academics, and contribute to meaningful discoveries that shape the future of our planet and its oceans. Previous expeditions have gone to Costa Rica, One Tree Island (Australia), Indonesia, Greenland and around UK coastal waters.

"This expedition magnified the importance of passion in real-world research. It showed me that to truly make your difference in the scientific world, one needs to put extensive time, passion and dedication into your projects. It highlighted that the occurrence of things/people not being on your side shouldn’t stunt your ambitions. It taught me about the extensiveness of the field, that there are endless avenues to venture down career wise however it is important to stay true to what interests you and in turn, this will make your work more fun!" Hannah Lazenby Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology Costa Rica expedition

MARINE WORK PLACEMENTS AROUND THE WORLD Placements can be incredibly beneficial for undergraduate students. A placement provides valuable, hands-on experience outside of the classroom, invaluable insight into life after graduation and provides you with a rich professional development and networking opportunity. A placement exposes you to a professional working environment where you’ll be expected to work with a team and communicate and collaborate with others in that industry. You'll gain direct experience of working in industry which will be invaluable to your career path and your final years at university.

For example, our students have engaged in the removal of ghost-fishing debris, along with diving to maintain the National Marine Aquarium enclosures and routine data collection with our colleagues at Plymouth Marine Laboratory, the Marine Biological Association and the Sir Alister Hardy Foundation for Ocean Science.

BAY ISLANDS CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION (BICA) RAJ

RESEARCH INTERN: ROATAN, HONDURAS TELL US ABOUT YOUR PLACEMENT... I did my placement at BICA, which is an NGO that has pushed for conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources on the three bay islands of Honduras since 1991. They focus on environmental education, community development, protection, and research and monitoring. There were over 20+ projects that were being undertaken at BICA while I was there, so my responsibilities varied depending on what project I was working on. I was responsible for all diving operations, from management of the Coral Nursery, application of antibiotic treatment to diseased corals, to survey dives to monitor reefs. WHAT IS THE BEST MOMENT AND/OR MOST REWARDING ACHIEVEMENT YOU’VE EXPERIENCED DURING YOUR PLACEMENT? Being given responsibility for all diving operations was quite rewarding, because it showed that an organisation believed in my abilities. I was also able to publish and present a poster on larval fish at the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries

Institute’s 75th annual conference, which is quite important for my career. In collaboration with BICA, we were also able to successfully secure a grant for $20,000 for a project that I had planned out and was supervising.

added costs of staying longer in Roatan. This coordination was done by email and took two to three weeks to finalise. It was done very easily without hiccups and didn’t involve preparation of a lot of documents.

WHAT SKILLS HAVE YOU GAINED FROM UNDERTAKING YOUR PLACEMENT? I have gained the ability to work in a diverse team with scientific and nonscientific individuals. I have learnt how to write grant proposals and defend them in front of a committee. I improved my laboratory skills by preparing bacterial samples and identifying larval fish under a microscope. My diving ability has increased significantly owing to the sheer number of surveys that I have conducted. My interpersonal skills have increased significantly. I am also able to critically analyse projects a lot more efficiently having had the experience of doing it to projects in real-life situations.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A PROSPECTIVE STUDENT CONSIDERING UNDERTAKING A PLACEMENT? If you’re not sure what you want to pursue, doing a placement will open your eyes to the various possibilities that you have in front of you. If you’re sure of what you want to pursue, doing a placement will solidify your decision and give you the relevant skills to boost your career. It’s a year off university, but you’ll come back with a new attitude towards life. The motivation that a placement can give you is unrivaled and pushes you to complete your degree on a high, with a clear goal of how you want to proceed with your career.

HOW DID THE UNIVERSITY SUPPORT YOU TO ARRANGE YOUR PLACEMENT? I decided to extend my placement by over four months. The University helped me secure more funds to help cover the

CAREER SUPPORT

One of our main goals when it comes to our students is helping them to find employment after university. Our Careers Service offers bespoke guidance for both students and graduates which aims to support and encourage their development, networks, and job applications. You may come into your degree with a career in mind. In that case, the Careers Service is there to offer you the opportunity to delve deeper, understand your chosen career more, and be able to utilise what we have to offer to enhance your applications. On the other hand if you are unsure about your career path (which is completely normal), there are plenty of resources to help you explore, plan and compete for opportunities. You will go through university and graduate life equipped with the skills and support you’ll need to feel ready for employment. HOW DO WE SUPPORT THE CAREER PROSPECTS OF OUR STUDENTS? Our students are exposed to the industry possibilities from day one, with talks from industry professionals and our own graduates. Our lively, immersive “Enhance Your Future” programme equips students with the tools they need to research and formulate their career ideas. Focused work experience preparation sessions bring students once more into contact with employers to gain an understanding of selection and recruitment processes, and students can attend sessions dedicated to making effective applications and increasing confidence in interview and assessment centre settings.

WHAT CAREER SUPPORT SERVICES DOES THE UNIVERSITY OFFER? You will receive regular support from your Personal Tutor and develop skills that support your success beyond academic study, including careers sessions, exploring your personal development, skill tracking, goal setting and professional planning. As well as our bespoke career development programme within the curriculum, we also offer a range of services. THESE INCLUDE: • Support with job hunting, application writing, CVs, networking, and interview skills. • Our myCareer internet platform hosts an extensive vacancy database of both graduate, placement, and part-time opportunities. It allows students to sign up for events such as employer panels, enterprise competitions or mentoring. It also holds a range of highly specialised digital tools such as a CV builder, an interview simulator, online courses and video resources. Additionally, access to myCareer is available to our graduates at any time in the future. • On-campus careers fairs, where students can explore career opportunities and develop their professional networks. • Individual placement support, both before and during the placement, as well as internship opportunities.

FUTURE CAREER PATHWAYS INCLUDE: • Oceanography • Hydrographic surveying • Marine conservation • Climate science • Research • Consultancy • Coastal management • Fisheries management • Coastal engineering • Marine policy and planning • Offshore industry • Hydrocarbon exploration • Marine renewables • Marine modelling • Field surveying • Marine monitoring and management • Water quality • Meteorology.

ANTONY'S STORY BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography

“I did take part in the ‘Enhance Your Future’ programme, which was valuable and added to the resettlement package I got from the RAF, as well as engaging more with my cohort. It encouraged me to organise a mini-internship for the summer, which I did with the Deep-Sea Conservation Research Unit at the University, and this has in turn led to me working with Professor Kerry Howell on my final project next year.” WHY DID YOU DECIDE THAT THE UNIVERSITY OF PLYMOUTH WAS THE RIGHT PLACE FOR YOU TO PURSUE MARINE BIOLOGY? I love the area and love nature, especially in the sea. I served my last job in the RAF in the Falklands, which had amazing wildlife, which reminded me that I could study marine biology. So I did an access course, applied to universities, and got accepted to Exeter and Plymouth. During the application process, I researched the establishments, and not only was Plymouth convenient as I live here, but it also has a great reputation worldwide and some excellent facilities including the Marine Station and diving courses. Even though Plymouth had a higher requirement (had to get lots of distinctions in my access course – which was nerve wracking!), it genuinely seemed like the best place to study Marine Biology. This was backed up by attending an offer holder day which showed off all the great aspects of the University.

WOULD YOU RECOMMEND UNDERTAKING MARINE BIOLOGY WITH THE UNIVERSITY, IF SO, WHY? Definitely! The course is challenging and hard work at times but incredibly interesting and rewarding. The staff are keen and engaging and their enthusiasm is infectious. Lab work, fieldwork and boat work are especially enjoyable and worthwhile. The online services via the DLE are great and I use the library and study areas in Babbage a lot. I treat studying like a full-time job so I can have evenings and weekends free, and these places give me an ‘office’ to use when not in lectures and practicals. I have had some assistance with stats from the SUM:UP team too, which was great as maths is my Achilles heel. My first year had an introductory rock pooling session at Mount Edgcumbe, a field week based on sampling done at Devil’s Point, and a week’s residential course in Roscoff. Each of them was brilliant and built on lectures and techniques taught. I am very excited about the upcoming field trip to Sweden, where we can sample some deep-sea organisms from a fjord.

HOW DO YOU FEEL THE SUPPORT HAS BEEN DURING YOUR TIME AT THE UNIVERSITY? So far, I have had a great experience with the staff. They are busy people, balancing their own research with teaching, so responses to emails are rarely instantaneous understandably. However, they do respond, act on feedback given, and provide good feedback to me on work I have done, enabling improvement. The support staff in the library have also been very helpful, including a one to one with the information specialist, Kim Davis, on how to use EndNote, a very useful referencing tool. WHAT CAREER PATH ARE YOU HOPING TO FOLLOW, AND HOW IS THE UNIVERSITY HELPING YOU TOWARDS THAT GOAL? I’m really not sure at this point as the field is so broad. Continuing to work in research and contribute to conservation efforts at somewhere like Plymouth Marine Laboratory would be awesome, but I’m also open to travelling for other opportunities, with the deep sea definitely my area of interest.

COASTAL PROCESSES SCIENTIST AT PLYMOUTH COASTAL OBSERVATORY MIRANDA MY CAREER PATH I am now a coastal processes scientist with Plymouth Coastal Observatory. PCO aims to provide a standard, repeatable and cost-effective method of monitoring the coastal environment around South West England. My role includes quality checking a range of coastal and survey data (from topographic data to LiDAR to ecological data), analysing data and producing technical reports, with the aim of helping stakeholders and local authorities make informed decisions. I also undertake topographic beach surveys. A topographic beach survey is where a surveyor will collect data including height measurements at fixed intervals along predefined profiles across a beach. This then allows us to calculate the cross-sectional area of the beach and to identify areas of change. What I love about my career is that there isn’t a typical weekday. One week I can be out surveying beaches, the next quality checking data, followed by researching new innovative ideas.

MY TIME AT PLYMOUTH I can describe my time at Plymouth in three words – social, memorable and opportunities. I met so many people and made lifelong friends and had amazing experiences. I developed and learned new skills, networked, and had my eyes opened to a variety of topics within the umbrella term of oceanography. The exciting aspect of my course was that a typical week was often varied. Sometimes I would be in lectures from 9–6 and at other times I would be out on the boat completing surveys, or down at the Marine Station carrying out lab experiments. SUPPORT ON THE COURSE I received excellent support from my lecturers. They were always willing to help and to take time out of their day to make sure I understood the topic whenever I was confused or had a question. MY MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES My most memorable module would have to be scientific diving owing to its uniqueness and having the opportunity to dive whilst learning new skills. During this module we developed underwater survey and data collection skills including photography, lift bag use, sediment core sampling

and quadrat surveys. As a coastal processes scientist, my degree helped get me where I am now by developing the transferable skills I had gained previously through internships and work and growing my confidence to seek out new opportunities. Communication and networking, independent research and data analysis are the top three skills I have gained from my time at Plymouth. Away from study, I loved going on adventures with my friends. One fine summer’s day, when a group of us had no lectures scheduled, we walked to Whitsand Bay, following a kind farmer’s directions and a trail map. The memories from this will never be forgotten. I joined several clubs during my first year, but hockey was my favourite because it got me outside doing physical activity with like-minded people, competing as a team against other clubs. This was often followed by a movie night with friends. I still spend my weekends playing hockey or diving as a volunteer at the aquarium. I am still either doing something on or in the water or walking on the moors or the South West Coast Path – the draw of the sea continues to grow from strength to strength for me.

WORKING ON MARINE CONSERVATION ACTIVITIES IN FIJI SAMUEL

HOW I CHOSE PLYMOUTH FOR MARINE SCIENCES Reputation alone was enough to make me apply for a place at the University of Plymouth. The world-class research opportunities, the staff leading their fields, and the facilities that they share with the students all had an enormous pull-factor. Aside from the academic merits that the University can offer, I decided that Plymouth was a place in which I wanted to build an enjoyable life for the duration of my degree. By choosing this course, I could live in the perfect place to do all the things I love while I studied. I could enjoy some of the best diving in the UK, I could surf, and I could explore the beautiful Dartmoor. WOULD I RECOMMEND UNDERTAKING MARINE SCIENCES AT THE UNIVERSITY? Without a doubt. I look fondly back on my time as a student, and I am sincerely grateful for all the opportunities that came my way. The people I met will always be a valuable part of my career network, and if not, they will always be there as firm friends. What made it the perfect place to study marine science was the location – it kept nurturing my love for the ocean beyond the lectures and the library hours. Devon and Cornwall have the most

amazing coastline, and being able to learn about it from the academics who understand it better than anyone was invaluable. HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE Hands-on experience was a huge part of the course, and was clearly an effective learning strategy. I highly valued the trust and encouragement to get involved with all of the scientific techniques which the talented staff use as part of their own research projects. The most valuable hands-on experience provided to me was during my final year research project. I was encouraged to implement hands-on techniques that I had learned throughout the course into my own research, which has undoubtedly given me the confidence and skills to become a marine scientist. ACADEMIC SUPPORT During my degree the staff were always there to help with whatever problem I threw their way. What has amazed me is how they continue to care now that I have graduated and started my own career. A special mention to Professors Mark Davidson and Abigail McQuattersGollop, who have both been incredibly supportive in helping me grow my career.

MY CAREER PATH Marine conservation was the focus of my degree, and will now be the focus of my career. Since graduating, I have started to grow a marine monitoring programme in Fiji, which aims to provide evidence for more marine protected areas. The University is helping me achieve this through the network of people that are looking to collaborate, or offer useful advice, or even pass on information to more relevant people who may be interested in my work. Having contacts associated with the University is an asset as strong as the degree itself. THE IMPORTANCE OF STUDYING MARINE SCIENCES Writing from my own personal experience, my degree has given me not only skills, but the confidence to apply them, with my knowledge to pursue issues which I care about most. My degree has enabled me to start a career in marine conservation in Fiji, an island nation where climate change poses an immediate danger from sea-level rise, ocean acidification and fishing exploitation. I now lead a project working towards implementing new marine protected areas, which we hope will make a real positive impact to Fijian people, and help save one of the most beautiful marine environments on our planet.

SALMON FARMING IN SCOTLAND LUKE

Plymouth is a great place to study marine biology, with the different courses focused on the various subjects within the field and resources to support, making it a standout choice for prospective students. Not only is the campus a great place to study with excellent laboratory and research facilities, but it’s also situated in a perfect area for students to enjoy the open surroundings and coastal areas Plymouth has to offer. During my time on the course, I was able to identify within the subject an area that I was interested in, with a view to progressing to a career after graduating. I was able to focus my dissertation project on a study on aquaculture, and with the support of some brilliant supervisors, my research project proved to be a success and enjoyable at the same time.

I’m currently working in Scotland for a Norwegian owned fish farm company as assistant manager, producing some of the best quality salmon on offer. We focus strongly on fish welfare and effective feeding whilst minimising environmental impacts. Having already spent seven years working across Scotland for various companies, there are huge opportunities here for anyone wishing to begin a career in aquaculture.

SENIOR PROJECTS MANAGER FOR BLUE MARINE FOUNDATION RORY

I am Senior Projects Manager for Blue Marine Foundation (BLUE), a charity dedicated to the creation of marine protected areas (MPAs) and establishing sustainable fishing models. Our office is in Somerset House, London, but I spend a considerable amount of time at various project sites.

be quite different. It is my responsibility to develop funding proposals and budgets and then ensure that these grants and donations are used as efficiently as possible (down to the last penny). Reporting must be accurate and timely. We are a small charity with a big impact, so efficiency is key.

This year I am moving between several sites in the Mediterranean, where I work with small-scale fishermen with existing or impending MPAs. I travel often to Azerbaijan, where BLUE has helped create the first MPA in the Caspian Sea. The Caspian project goal is to save six critically endangered species of sturgeon and salmon from extinction.

Plymouth makes you more passionate about the ocean, and studying here kept me on the right path. I wanted to be by the ocean, I wanted to dive, I wanted to surf, and I wanted to study with the best marine biologists in the country. Plymouth was fantastic for me, and I will always love it.

As much I would like to spend all my days knee deep in Azeri rivers or 50 metres down on a Maldivian reef or out fishing with artisanal gear in the Mediterranean, the reality of project management can

I think making contacts is extremely important. If I were starting university again, I would have put myself ‘out there’ more, taken in as many experiences as possible, always have said yes to opportunities, and surfed more.

IT’S YOUR ADVENTURE MAKE IT COUNT Over 93% of our graduates are in work or further study* * Excludes those travelling, retired or caring for someone, out of all UK domiciled, full-time first-degree graduates. Graduate Outcomes Survey 2026

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