Ocean Sciences at Bangor University: Explore the Marine World

What is Ocean Sciences?

Ocean Sciences is the study of the Marine Environment. It encompasses a wide range of disciplines, from physical sciences like geological oceanography to biological sciences, including zoology. In the first year, we all study together to build a strong foundation. In the second year, you diverge into your specific degree specialisations; then, in the third year, you delve even deeper.

The Menai Strait: A Diverse Habitat on Your Doorstep

What I love about studying Ocean Sciences at Bangor is the incredibly diverse habitat right on our doorstep. In Bangor, we have the Menai Strait, a strip of ocean between Bangor and the Isle of Anglesey. I was really surprised by how much life is there. Not only do we get to study this habitat, but I've also been learning about Antarctica and tropical coral reefs, which are really cool.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

In Bangor, we have a wide range of facilities, including the largest seagoing vessel, the Prince Madog, which all Ocean Sciences students get to go on at least once. I've been on it to collect both physical and biological data. We also have aquaria, algae labs, and tidal flow labs, which are really cool to observe.

Learning from Active Researchers

It's really cool being taught by lecturers who are doing active research because they can tell you in detail about current and relevant research projects they've been working on. No one can give you that level of detail like someone who wrote the paper.

A Close-Knit Community

Bangor University's campus is small, which results in a close community feel. You can't leave the house without seeing someone you know. When I came to university, it was really reassuring to be around so many people that I knew.

Study Abroad Opportunities

All students at Bangor University get the opportunity to study abroad and gain international experience, but Marine Biology students also get the opportunity to study at the Virginia Marine Institute. Studying organisms there broadens your understanding from those found native to North Wales to an international level.

PhD and Career Opportunities

There are loads of opportunities for Ocean Sciences students after they graduate, whether they're working in habitat modelling, fisheries management, or planning permission for coastal and marine structures. Personally, after I graduate, I'd like to study for a PhD. Through Bangor University's internship scheme, I did an internship last summer and did some research that's hopefully going to get published. This really inspired and motivated me to carry on working in research.

Advice for Students

My advice for students wanting to study Ocean Science at Bangor University is to bring some waterproofs and some walking boots. We do a lot of fieldwork around the mountains and coast of North Wales and Anglesey. These places are really fun to explore on your own time as well.