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 in the UK
If you’re passionate about the ocean, conservation, and marine ecosystems, studying Marine Biology in the UK offers some of the best opportunities in the world. Our 2025 ranking highlights the best universities for Marine Biology in the UK, combining academic excellence, research facilities, and fieldwork access along the UK’s stunning coastline.
University of Southampton
Southampton is a global leader in marine science and oceanography. Students benefit from cutting-edge research facilities, access to the National Oceanography Centre, and excellent graduate employability in marine research and consultancy.
University of Plymouth
Plymouth offers hands-on learning in real marine environments, with access to advanced labs, marine stations, and research vessels. Its coastal location and fieldwork emphasis make it ideal for practical learners.
Bangor University
Bangor combines marine science expertise with a stunning coastal setting in North Wales. Students enjoy small class sizes, great staff support, and opportunities to study everything from ocean ecology to coastal management.
University of Aberdeen
Aberdeen is known for research in marine biology, fisheries, and oceanography. With strong academic outcomes and affordable living, it’s a great option for students focused on scientific research and sustainability.
University of Glasgow
Glasgow provides high-quality teaching in biological and environmental sciences with links to marine conservation projects. The city offers affordability and excellent student support services.
University of Newcastle
Newcastle’s School of Natural and Environmental Sciences combines academic rigour with an exciting coastal location. Students benefit from marine field trips, lab work, and strong social life near the North Sea.
University of St Andrews
St Andrews is internationally recognised for marine science research and conservation. Its close-knit academic community and seaside setting make it ideal for focused study and practical marine exploration.
University of Exeter
Exeter offers environmentally focused Marine Biology programs with opportunities for placements and field research. Students benefit from excellent wellbeing support and a strong sustainability ethos.
University of York
York delivers a modern, interdisciplinary approach to Marine Biology through its biology and environmental science departments. It’s a great option for students interested in ecology, genetics, and marine conservation policy.
University of Liverpool
Liverpool offers a balanced academic experience with strong marine science teaching. Its vibrant student community and proximity to the coast make it a popular choice for Marine Biology students.
Career Prospects After a Marine Biology Degree
Graduates can work in marine conservation, research, environmental consultancy, aquaculture, and policy. Related subjects include Environmental Science and Biology.
Entry Requirements for Marine Biology Degrees
Most universities require A-levels in Biology and Chemistry, with UCAS points between 120 and 140. Fieldwork skills, curiosity, and environmental awareness are key traits for applicants.
Most Affordable Cities to Study Marine Biology in the UK
Plymouth, Bangor, and Aberdeen offer great value for money, with excellent course quality and access to the coast for fieldwork and research.
Best Universities for Nightlife and Student Life
Liverpool, Newcastle, and Exeter combine lively social scenes with access to the ocean — perfect for students balancing study and fun.
Student Wellbeing and Academic Support
Universities such as Exeter, St Andrews, and Bangor are known for excellent wellbeing services, small cohort sizes, and academic mentoring tailored to field-based study.
Considering Alternatives to Marine Biology?
If you’re interested in related subjects, explore Environmental Science, Biotechnology, or Biology.
Summary: Which Marine Biology University Is Right for You?
When choosing where to study Marine Biology, think about fieldwork access, research facilities, and location. Southampton leads for global research impact, Plymouth and Bangor excel for coastal study opportunities, and St Andrews and Exeter offer outstanding academic support. Compare your options to find the perfect place to dive into marine science.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Marine Biology
Leading choices include the University of Southampton, Bangor University, University of Plymouth, University of St Andrews, and the University of Exeter. They combine strong coastal access, active research groups, and high student satisfaction.
Southampton and St Andrews often compete for the top spot in UK league tables, with Plymouth and Bangor close behind. Rankings shift each year, so check the latest tables before you apply.
Yes. It opens doors to careers in conservation, environmental management, research, and marine policy. Students who gain field and lab experience during their degree see the best outcomes after graduation.
Most courses ask for Biology and often Chemistry. Some accept Mathematics, Environmental Science, or Geography as the second science. Always check the entry requirements for your chosen course.
Graduates move into marine research, conservation charities, environmental consulting, aquaculture, fisheries management, and science communication. Some continue to a masters or PhD for specialist roles.
Demand is steady across conservation, offshore and coastal planning, marine renewables, and environmental compliance. Graduates with GIS, data skills, and boat or dive experience are especially competitive.
Typical starting pay is from £20,000 to £28,000. With experience in research, consultancy, or regulation, salaries can rise to £35,000 to £45,000 and higher for senior specialists and project leads.
Balancing fieldwork with lab reports and statistics can be tough. Modules in ecology, oceanography, and data analysis are intensive and require strong time management.
Employers include the Environment Agency, Natural England, marine consultancies, universities, aquariums, NGOs, and international conservation projects across Europe and beyond.
Yes. It is a rigorous science degree with strong practical training. Courses with field schools, research cruises, and industry placements are viewed very positively by employers.
Many universities offer a placement year or professional practice module. Popular options include roles with consultancies, aquariums, conservation trusts, and government agencies working on coastal projects.
Yes. Most courses include coastal surveys, intertidal sampling, and at sea training. Some offer residential field courses in the UK or overseas to build real data collection experience.
Diving is not essential for most degrees, but a recognised certification such as PADI Open Water can help for certain research projects and may improve employability in survey work.
Typical offers sit between AAB and BBB or the UCAS points equivalent, with a strong grade in Biology. Competitive courses may ask for an additional science subject.
Some courses hold accreditation from bodies such as the Royal Society of Biology. Accreditation signals strong scientific content and good practical training, which can support career progression.
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