Marine & Freshwater Biology BSc (Hons): C164
Marine and freshwater biology is the study of the world’s aquatic environments.You’ll take part in field courses on Loch Lomond and at the Field Studies Council centre at Millport in the Firth of Clyde. We also have an Exploration Society to help you organise and conduct scientific expeditions to all parts of the world.
For Entry in 2027
Summary of entry requirements for Marine & Freshwater Biology
Scottish Higher entry requirements
- ABBB is the minimum requirement from S5 to be reviewed for an S6 offer
- Offers are not guaranteed to applicants who meet the minimum from S5
- Typically offers will be made at AAAAA by end of S6. B at Advanced Higher is equivalent to A at Higher
- Additional requirements: Higher Biology or Chemistry. (A in either).
Scottish Higher adjusted entry requirements* (by end of S5 or S6)
- MD20: BBBB (also other target groups*)
- MD40: AABB (ABB S5 minimum for consideration)*
- Additional requirements: Higher Biology or Chemistry. Successful completion of Top-Up or one of our Summer Schools.
* See Access Glasgow for eligibility.
Widening Participation Articulation Programmes
The University has bespoke HNC Articulation Programmes running at various colleges, offering direct entry to Year 2 of this degree.
A-level standard entry requirements
- AAB – BBB
- Additional requirements: A-level Biology or Chemistry.
IB standard entry requirements
- 34 (6,5,5)
- Additional requirements: HL Biology or Chemistry.
Entry requirements for advanced entry to Marine & Freshwater Biology
Applicants who achieve exceptional grades in their Advanced Highers, A-levels or International Baccalaureate may be considered for advanced entry, meaning that an Honours degree can be completed in three years instead of the normal four years, or four years for five-year integrated Masters programmes.
Choose point of entry 2nd year on your UCAS application to indicate you wish to be considered for advanced entry.
Scottish Higher requirements for advanced entry
- Advanced Highers – AAA including Biology and Chemistry attained in one exam year and at the first attempt.
Applicants must also meet the standard offer threshold with S5 grades to be considered for advanced entry.
A-level requirements for advanced entry
- Three A-levels at grades A*AA which include Biology and Chemistry attained in one exam year and at the first attempt.
IB requirements for advanced entry
- 38 points with three Higher Level subjects at 6,6,6 including Biology and Chemistry attained in one exam year and at the first attempt.
Admissions guidance
Glasgow International College
International students with academic qualifications below those required should contact our partner institution, Glasgow International College, who offer a range of foundation certificates.
English language
For applicants from non-English speaking countries, as defined by the UK Government, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.
English language requirements
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic and Academic Online (not General Training)
- 6.5 with no subtests under 6.0
- IELTS One Skill Retake Accepted
- Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements using a single test.

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