The new BSc (Hons) Marine Biology is the first of its kind in the North West, managing to strike a fine balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skill learning. Thanks to the supportive learning environment, the student will gain a systematic understanding of key aspects of the marine environment, as well as a detailed insight into the industry that relies on it. The curriculum is contemporary and will enhance employability through the University’s industry collaboration initiative.

Practical training is particularly relevant, and will be delivered during two residential fieldtrips. The first one, in the second year of study, will be carried out in Dale (Wales), at the renowned Dale Fort Field Station. The second trip will be organized at the beginning on the third year, in Kavala, Greece, in collaboration with the national Fisheries Research Institute.

Between years two and three of this course we encourage students to complete a placement year, which is arranged with our support. The position is often salaried, with a major link to a wildlife trust, or a research organisation. Popular placements organisations/institutions are Operation Wallacea (various destinations worldwide) and Archipelagos (Greece), working with charismatic animals like sea turtles and marine mammals. The students gain invaluable practical expertise, learns (and applies) new skills, and create a link with industry.

In our experience, final degree results and employability are enhanced for students who undertake a placement year. The placement also counts towards the final degree classification as part of the year 2 mark.

In the final year, modules will have a special focus on the most applied and up-to-date topics relating to the marine system, like fisheries science and marine management.

The programme aims at preparing future leaders, figures whom, thanks to skills acquired at the University of Salford, will be actively involved in managing and preserving the oceans.