Marine Biology & Ecology Diploma

Course information

Careers in Marine Biology and Ecology are some of the most sought-after jobs, providing the opportunity to travel the world and explore the wonder of the oceans as part of your day to day work.

Whether your dreams involve living on tropical islands protecting reefs, studying mega-fauna such as sharks, observing the movement of whales in the arctic or monitoring fisheries in coast off the Isles of Scillies, this course is the ideal starting place.

The Marine Biology & Ecology Level 3 Diploma at Falmouth Marine School benefits from a long history of teaching, specialist equipment, and a wealth of teaching expertise.

Our facilities are unique at college level, with no other course in the UK offering the same opportunities and resources.
Whether on the boat learning about marine surveying techniques, in the laboratory practicing identification, or using the different aquaculture/fish tanks in the wet lab, this course offers something special and provides the perfect opportunity for anyone looking to stand-out and develop a bright future in marine environment sciences.

What You Will Learn

As an A-Level equivalent City & Guilds Technical Course, you will be taught vocational subjects to give you the practical skills for working in the natural environment.

You will learn about the systems and management of marine species, as well as theories of conservation and techniques of protecting marine species.

You also will be given the opportunity to study marine species, both in the natural environment and in the laboratory, including the physiology and anatomy of marine wildlife, evolutionary biology and behaviour, as well as quantitative ecology.

This broad range of study means that you get to see all the avenues available for future work and study, with lots of opportunities for gaining new skills and strengths academically.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for external applicants and school leavers
• Four or more GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including English and/or Maths, or successful completion of a relevant Level 2 qualification.
• Functional Skills Level 2 in English and/or Maths will be considered as alternatives to GCSE, but a GCSE resit may be required depending on grade.

Entry requirements for existing learners with the Cornwall College Group
• Successful completion of previous course and maths and/or English at GCSE Grade 4 or Functional Skills Level 2.

You will need four GCSEs at grade 4, including English, maths and ideally science or a Marine Biology & Ecology Diploma Level 2 at merit grade.

Work Experience

Ed, 28, completed two industry placements. One with Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay and the other at Sea Life in Birmingham and is now a lecturer at Duchy College. “I was able to carry out 2 work placements one at Blue reef aquarium in Newquay and the other at Sea life Birmingham. Here I learnt the basics in fishkeeping as well as the desirable skills needed to gain employment in public aquariums.”

Assessment

You will be assessed through written assessments and practical tasks. There is also an exam component, which is a mixture of written and practical assessments.

Progression

Many students leave this course and go into industry confident of their ability and skills. Our Level 3 Marine Biology and Ecology Diploma has excellent progression to the best universities teaching marine biology and ecology related courses. With its vocational core, and strong academic subjects, you will be equipped to survive in either Higher Education or industry, and you can also gain additional skills and training to both broaden your horizons as well as strengthen your CV and work experience.

Careers in this industry:
Marine biologist
Conservation professional
Aquaculture professional
Environmental professional

Falmouth Marine School

Falmouth Marine School

With a modern campus in the centre of Falmouth and boat workshops on the waterfront, studying at Falmouth Marine School is joyous. Few colleges in the country can boast the exceptional experience you will have, whether it’s studying to become the next marine scientist, marine engineer, boatbuilder, or watersports industry expert. There is a special, friendly and dynamic atmosphere on campus, which is backed up by a supportive and highly knowledgeable team. It’s no surprise that our alumni always recommend Falmouth Marine School to have your #careercollege experience.

Find out more about our Falmouth campus

Events

Open Event Taster Event

Falmouth Marine School

Open Event and Taster Session at Falmouth Marine School

• 1 Feb 25
• 29 Mar 25