Ocean Science

The oceans cover more than two thirds of our planet and regulate its climate, support vast ecosystems, and sustain the livelihoods of billions of people. Ocean science is the study of these enormous and complex systems, drawing on physics, chemistry, biology, and geology to understand how the seas work, how they are changing, and what those changes mean for life on Earth. It is a discipline of growing urgency as rising sea temperatures, acidification, and overfishing place marine environments under unprecedented pressure.

At Bangor University, situated on the coast of north Wales with direct access to the marine environment, you will study ocean science across three years of undergraduate study, with an additional foundation year at the start of the programme for those who need to build their scientific knowledge before entering the degree proper. You will explore oceanographic processes, from deep-water circulation and tidal dynamics to the ecology of coral reefs and the chemistry of seawater. The course develops your capacity for fieldwork and data analysis alongside your theoretical understanding, and you will have the opportunity to undertake a placement year, giving you direct professional experience in research institutions, environmental agencies, or conservation organisations.

A year abroad is also available, allowing you to study marine environments in a different part of the world and gain an international perspective on ocean science. Throughout the course there are work placement opportunities woven into the learning experience.

Bangor's location and the university's strong marine research reputation mean you will have access to real fieldwork environments and research facilities that bring the subject to life beyond the lecture hall.

Graduates go on to careers in marine research, environmental consultancy, fisheries management, coastal planning, and conservation. Government agencies, international organisations, NGOs, and private environmental firms all employ ocean scientists. Further study at masters and doctoral level is a natural progression for those who wish to specialise in a particular aspect of oceanography or pursue an academic or senior research career.