Students continuing with the Marine Biology degree will have their own special tutorial and field course modules in the second and third years. Since marine biology is a specialised subject, a certain level of basic knowledge about the oceans themselves and general biology is required before the marine organisms can be sensibly studied. Thus the first year students study aspects of marine chemistry, physical oceanography and geology in order to gain an understanding of the environment in which marine organisms live. Fundamental aspects of biology including biochemistry, cell biology and genetics are also examined during the first year. Specialised modules in marine biology include an introduction to marine ecosystems, physiology of marine organisms and a study of the evolution of the marine biota and how they are adapted to life in various habitats.
Students also study applied statistics and information technology for marine biologists.
There are four field trips associated with the marine biology modules which run throughout the year. As well as field work associated with various modules, there is a field course at the end of the second year which includes studies of varied intertidal ecosystems. Tutorial work forms an important part of the second year along with study of biological statistics. Two practical modules will be undertaken, one of which will involve work on the college research vessel, and a further one week field course is included in the year. Emphasis is laid on two tutorial based modules running throughout the year which cover a range of transferable skills including essay writing, data analysis and presentation.