Discover the best UK universities for Marine Biology in 2026. Dive into ocean science, conservation, and cutting-edge research with top-ranked courses.
Best Universities for Marine Biology: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Plymouth | 88 | 81 |
| 2 Silver | Bangor University | 85 | 79 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Southampton | 87 | 78 |
| 4 | University of St Andrews | 84 | 75 |
| 5 | University of Aberdeen | 83 | 74 |
| 6 | University of Glasgow | 82 | 73 |
| 7 | University of East Anglia | 81 | 75 |
| 8 | University of Newcastle | 80 | 77 |
| 9 | University of Liverpool | 79 | 76 |
| 10 | University of Southampton Solent | 78 | 74 |
1. University of Plymouth Gold
2. Bangor University Silver
3. University of Southampton Bronze
4. University of St Andrews
5. University of Aberdeen
6. University of Glasgow
7. University of East Anglia
8. University of Newcastle
9. University of Liverpool
10. University of Southampton Solent
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Marine Biology rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to highlight the best coastal and biosciences universities for marine studies.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Marine Biology Universities Explained
University of Southampton
Known for marine research excellence, fieldwork opportunities, and strong graduate prospects.University of Plymouth
Offers hands-on experience with marine ecosystems and access to marine labs and vessels.Bangor University
Specialises in marine science with great coastal location and student support.University of Aberdeen
Strong research output in marine biology and oceanography, plus good student satisfaction.University of Glasgow
Affordable city, quality teaching, and strong environmental science links.University of Newcastle
Good mix of academic rigour and vibrant student life near the coast.University of St Andrews
Historic university with excellent marine science research and community feel.University of Exeter
Strong environmental focus, good placements, and supportive campus life.University of York
Known for interdisciplinary biology courses with marine biology options.University of Liverpool
Balanced academic strengths and lively social scene.Career Prospects After a Marine Biology Degree
Graduates can work in conservation, marine research, environmental consultancy, and policy. Related fields include Environmental Science and Biology.
Marine Biology Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Typical entry requirements include A-levels in Biology and Chemistry with UCAS points around 120–140 depending on the university.
Cheapest Cities to Study Marine Biology in the UK
Plymouth, Bangor, and Aberdeen offer great cost-to-quality ratios for marine studies.
Best Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Liverpool, Newcastle, and Exeter have thriving student scenes perfect for balancing study and fun.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Top support services are available at Exeter, St Andrews, and Bangor with tailored student care.
Not Sure About Marine Biology? Consider These Alternatives
Explore Environmental Science, Biotechnology, or Biology.
Summary: Which Marine Biology Uni is Right for You?
Look for a mix of research opportunities, coastal access, social life, and career support. Bookmark this guide to compare your choices.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Marine Biology
Top UK universities for Marine Biology include the University of Southampton, Bangor University, and University of Plymouth, known for strong research, coastal access, and student satisfaction.
The University of Southampton frequently ranks highest for Marine Biology thanks to its world-class marine research facilities and strong student feedback.
A Marine Biology degree offers exciting career paths in research, conservation, and environmental management, especially if you have a passion for marine ecosystems.
Typical requirements include Biology and Chemistry at A-level. Some universities also value Geography or Environmental Science. Always check specific course pages for exact requirements.
Graduates work in marine research, wildlife conservation, environmental consultancy, aquaculture, and education roles.
Demand is steady in conservation and environmental roles, with growth in sustainable marine resource management sectors.
Starting salaries generally range from £20,000 to £28,000, increasing with experience and specialisation in research or consultancy.
Courses with strong research components and lab work can be more demanding. Fieldwork and practical assessments also require commitment.
Graduates often work for environmental agencies, NGOs, universities, and marine conservation organisations both in the UK and internationally.
Yes, Marine Biology is highly regarded for its scientific rigor and environmental impact, especially when earned from top UK universities.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
