Marine and Freshwater Biology at Aberystwyth University

Situated on the coast of Cardigan Bay with a hinterland rich in rivers, streams and lakes, Aberystwyth University is the ideal location to study of Marine and Freshwater Biology. Easily accessible habitats range from mountain streams bearing salmon and trout and unique habitats for freshwater invertebrates, through estuaries of international importance, to sandy beaches, rocky reefs, salt marsh and a bay that is home to the largest residential population of bottlenose dolphins in the UK.

Why study Marine and Freshwater Biology at Aberystwyth University?

• IBERS is home to two research vessels that give you hands on experience of the range of skills used by professional marine and freshwater biologists.
• As student at Aberystwyth University, students will benefit from a modern aquarium facilities which includes aquarium systems for experimental studies of marine and freshwater organisms.
• All of our students are taught and mentored by passionate teaching staff that conduct world-leading research across a wide range of marine and freshwater subject areas. You may have even seen some of them on TV documentaries explaining the secret lives of aquatic organisms
• During the duration of the course, all students will have an opportunity to participate in two residential field courses, each focused on either marine or freshwater biology
• IBERS is also home to a wonderful museum and herbarium full of historic specimens collected from around the globe by generations of famous Aberystwyth University scientists. This facility will be invaluable for your final year projects.  
• We have invested over £55 million in infrastructure of student facilities ensuring that you are taught in dynamic spaces that fosters innovation and success.  

What are our graduates doing now? 

Our Marine and Freshwater Biology graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to enter a wide range of careers including: 

• Ecological consultancy;
• Environmental management and conservation; 
• Teaching;
• Scientific journalism.

This degree also frequently leads to postgraduate research at Masters and PhD level. 

What do I gain from studying Marine and Freshwater Biology?

• Our degree at Aberystwyth University teaches you a broad range of skills such as observation, research, analysis, critical evaluation and reflection.
• You will also be studying in a department that has invested over £55 million in infrastructure of student facilities.
• The Institute has close links with many learned societies such as the Society of Biology which is great way of networking with those in your field.