BSc Marine Biology Ella | Study With Us

Meet Ella, Marine Biology BSc

Hi my name is Ella, and I study Marine Biology BSc here at Newcastle. I chose to study at Newcastle University because the course covered all the themes and subject areas I was most interested in.

It immediately stood out as the right academic fit for me and alongside that, I was really drawn to Newcastle upon Tyne itself. The city has such a welcoming atmosphere, and from the beginning I could picture myself living and studying here.

Find out more about Marine Biology BSc

Find out more about the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences

My favourite thing about my course

One of my favourite things about the course is the variety of teaching methods. It’s not just classroom-based learning. We get a great mix of lectures, practical lab sessions, and fieldwork, which keeps things interesting and helps bring the theory to life.

I’ve particularly enjoyed the hands-on experiences, as they’ve allowed me to apply what I’ve learned in a real-world context.

My favourite course module

My favourite module has been Tropical Marine Ecology. I found the content incredibly engaging, especially because I’ve been interested in coral ecosystems from the very start of my degree.

Learning more about tropical marine environments and the challenges they face has been both fascinating and inspiring.

What I love most about Newcastle

What I love most about Newcastle is how much it has to offer. You have the city centre, beautiful places like the Quayside and Jesmond Dene, and even the beach just a short journey away.

It really offers the best of both worlds, city life and access to nature, and over time it has genuinely started to feel like home.

Life in Newcastle

Our North East region

How the course has prepared me for the future

Throughout my degree, I’ve developed a range of transferable skills that will support me in my future career.

In particular, I’ve gained a stronger sense of professionalism and learned how to present myself effectively through CV writing and career-focused activities. It has really boosted my confidence for life after university.

Graduate employability

Our career service 

The facilities as part of my degree programme

As part of my degree, I regularly use specialist facilities such as the marine laboratories in the Ridley Buildings and the Dove Marine Laboratory.

Having access to these facilities has been invaluable, as they provide practical experience and exposure to professional-standard equipment and environments.

Being involved in societies outside of my studies

Getting involved in societies has been a really important part of my university experience. They’re a great way to meet new people, build friendships, and feel part of the wider university community.

They’ve also helped me establish a healthy routine and balance alongside my studies.

Find out more about our societies

My advice to you

My advice would be to make the most of every opportunity the course offers, because there are so many available both during your degree and afterwards.

I’d also say it’s important to stay organised. The workload does increase each year, so building good habits and establishing a routine early on makes a huge difference in managing your time and getting the most out of the experience.

The academics have strong industry connections, which open a lot of doors.

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