Marine biology

Why study Marine biology at Essex?

At the University of Essex, we take pride in being ranked 7th for biology (non-specific) for overall positivity (National Student Survey 2024, English broad-discipline higher education institutions).

You'll join a community of renowned academic experts, dedicated to researching marine environments and driving significant change. Dr Michelle Taylor, whose recent research expedition to the Galapagos Islands exemplifies the global reach of our academic pursuits; and our team of Marine experts working with leading research organisations such as Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas).

You'll have access to facilities such as our on-site aquarium and the Marine Biology Field Centre, providing an ideal setting for your research projects.

As part of your studies you'll have incredible opportunities for field trips, both within the UK and abroad. Journey to locations like Scotland, Greece, and Indonesia (subject to additional costs), where, in the heart of the Coral Triangle, you will gain hands-on experience in diving and contribute to unique underwater research surveys. Your academic journey at Essex is not just a study; it's an adventure into marine research.

Career prospects

Within the School of Life Sciences, our Marine Biology and related courses offer not only academic excellence but also exceptional career guidance and training. We are committed to providing you with the best opportunities as you embark on your journey post-graduation. Our esteemed alumni have gone on to contribute their expertise to some of the world's leading companies, including: New Earth Solutions, Engine Group Cromwell Council, DEFRA, Operation Wallacea, BBC, Thames Water, Hive Ventures and many more.

Explore the career opportunities our School can provide you and learn more about our Alumni.

Take your specialism to the next level

The interaction between people and the planet, our oceans and marine life is an increasingly complex issue, and the question of how to manage our environment presents a global challenge. One that our Postgraduate Students are determined to solve.

Our curriculum constantly adapts to the latest findings in the field, exploring topics like tropical marine oceans, coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove systems. You'll delve into the roles of photosynthetic producers and heterotrophic consumers, understanding ecological processes in tropical marine ecosystems. Additionally, you'll study a career-focused module hones discipline-specific skills, fostering critical analysis, integration, and communication in multidisciplinary research environments.

We offer two standard 1 year courses at Postgraduate Taught level

• MSc Tropical Marine Biology
• MSc Marine Science and Sustainable Development

In addition to this, if you are interested in progressing to PhD level, we also provide a four- or seven-year Integrated PhD in Tropical Marine Biology, in which your first year will be studying at Masters-level, followed by a full- or part-time PhD - giving you a direct route into PhD research study and education.

Research that can conquer oceans

Starting your doctoral journey in marine biology represents a profound commitment to unravelling the mysteries of the world beneath the waves and offers a unique opportunity for you to delve into the intricate ecosystems and diverse life forms that inhabit our oceans.

You'll use cutting-edge technologies, combined with your passion for conservation exploring disciplines ranging from marine ecology and physiology to molecular biology. You'll work, study and research alongside our University experts who are conducting research around the globe to create sustainable future for our planet's vast and vital marine environments.

Start your application with us

Explore our Marine Biology research by theme or your area of interest and find a supervisor that can support your through your studies. More information can be found about research degrees on our school pages. Our courses below will help guide you through the various research degree programmes we offer.