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. These courses include topics such as algal and larval culture techniques, energetics of nutrition and benthic survey design. A further one week field course covering benthic surveys, ROV use, and mark and re-capture methods for stock assessment, 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. For choice of modules in third year Career opportunities Recent marine biology graduates have taken up careers in aquaculture, marine conservation, environmental assessment, fisheries, water companies and the NRA as well as in research institutes, universities, and government laboratories.