Introduction to Marine Biology, Environmental Science and Sustainability CertHE

What is special about this course?

Do you want to build skills that make a real impact on your community? Could you see yourself creating solutions that support island industries and protect the marine environment?

Step into hands-on, classroom-based study in Shetland and shape your future in a place where learning connects directly to the world around you. Investigate, experiment, and apply practical skills in a setting that brings science to life.

Explore a diverse range of science subjects and discover where your strengths and interests lie. Build strong foundations for employment or further study while developing the confidence to work across different scientific fields. Strengthen your practical abilities, sharpen your problem solving, and grow your understanding of the industries that drive island communities.

Immerse yourself in a unique location surrounded by the marine environment and close to thriving sectors such as aquaculture, fishing, and renewable energy. Engage with real world challenges and gain experience that reflects current industry practice. Connect your learning directly to the opportunities around you and graduate ready to take the next step toward your chosen career.

Shape your skills, expand your horizons, and prepare to make a meaningful contribution to the Northern Isles and beyond.

Special features

• Only marine biology course based in Shetland
• Practical, hands-on course
• Excellent facilities
• Experienced lecturing staff
• Close links to industry

Accommodation

We offer modern student accommodation at a number of our locations.

Entry requirements

• 3 Scottish Highers at grades BCC or above, preferably including Biology, Geography, Environmental Science, or Chemistry OR
• 2 A levels at grades BC or above, preferably including Biology, Geography, Environmental Science, or Chemistry
• Applicants with other qualifications or experience will be considered on an individual basis

Year 1 - CertHE

You will study the following core modules:

• Introduction to climate change and marine renewables
• Introduction to environmental science
• Introduction to marine biology
• Marine ecology practical skills
• Sustainable aquaculture and fisheries

Fees

For students normally domiciled in Scotland, with a term-time address in Scotland, the following fees apply:

This includes

• EU nationals with settled or pre-settled status in the UK,
• EEA/Swiss nationals with settled status in the UK
• EEA/Swiss nationals with pre-settled status who are self-employed or migrant workers in the UK.

Rest of UK students

For students normally domiciled in the rest of the UK (England, Wales and N. Ireland, including Channel Islands and the Isle of Man) and with a term-time address in Scotland, the following fees apply:

Fees are payable in advance each academic year unless otherwise agreed.

There are a number of funding options available to UK and EU students to help you pay for your studies and your cost of living while studying (see the Funding section opposite).

International students

For students who do not normally reside in the UK, including EU/EEA and Swiss nationals without settled or pre-settled status in the UK, with a term-time address in Scotland, the following fees apply:

This includes EEA/Swiss nationals with pre-settled status who are not self-employed or migrant workers in the UK.

Part-time study is not open to international student requiring Student Route visa sponsorship to study in the UK.

Funding

External scholarships and financial support may be available. Contact the relevant UHI partner college for more information.