Bachelor's in Marine Sciences

During the first year, you'll learn to understand and analyze a variety of marine systems. You'll also learn how to conduct research and combine different disciplines. The year concludes with a project in the Wadden Sea and the North Sea so that you can put your knowledge into practice right away! 

Courses first year.

You’ll continue with courses on topics such as food systems, marine economics and law and you will practice marine research methods at a coastal area in Croatia.  This year also concludes with a project: you'll design and evaluate nature-based solutions.  

Courses second year.

During the first semester of the third year, you decide what you'll study; this is the elective semester. Will you take a minor? Or will you choose your own electives? The second half of the year revolves around your final major project, which brings together everything you've learned. You'll assess the effects of nature-based solutions and conduct your graduation research.

Courses third year.

During your third year, you can broaden or deepen your knowledge with a minor. Consider, for example, a minor Seagriculture: Designing Sustainable Seaweed Chains or Natural Resource Conflict and Governance. You can even take it at a different university or abroad! Check out all the minors here.

The study consists of:

• Lectures: a teacher explains the course material to the class.
• Tutorials: you complete assignments under the supervision of a teacher.
• Group work: an assignment with a project group based on a practical example or case.
• Lab and computer practicals: you carry out experiments in the lab or work with models, simulations and data analyses.
• Excursions: To marine and coastal research institutes, and to Texel and Croatia. You'll learn how to conduct field research near, on, and in the sea.
• Self-study: scheduled into your timetable or at times of your choosing. 

At WUR, you're never alone. You'll receive more support from lecturers, study advisors, and supervisors than at most universities. This reduces the risk of you dropping out and increases your academic enjoyment. It's our way of showing that we truly care about you!

Some bachelor's programs at WUR are quite similar. We've listed the key differences for you:

• BSc Biology
  In this broad Bachelor's program, you'll learn about biology from cell to ecosystem. You'll focus on various environments: land and sea, near and far. In Marine Sciences, you'll truly focus on the sea, combining natural sciences with social sciences.
• BSc Forest and Nature Conservation 
  Forest and Nature Conservation focuses on the ecological and social aspects of managing nature reserves and forests. In Marine Sciences, you focus on oceans instead of forests.
• BSc Environmental Sciences
  In the Bachelor's program in Environmental Sciences, you'll learn to understand and address environmental and sustainability issues—for example, those related to nature, climate, and pollution. You'll combine technological, natural, and social science knowledge with practical skills, such as collaborating in international teams. Marine Sciences focuses on the oceans and has a more biological focus.  

Many students pursue a master's degree after completing their bachelor's program. This provides you with even more knowledge and skills. Marine Sciences is a broad programme. You can always progress to:  

• MSc in Aquaculture and Marine Resource Management
• MSc Geo-Information Science
• MSc Development and Rural Innovation

A different Wageningen master's programme is also an option. In that case, in the third year of your bachelor's programme, you choose electives that will facilitate your entry into the master's program of your choice. Your academic advisor will help you determine this route, ensuring you start with as little delay as possible. With the right minor, you can, for example, pursue the following Master's programmes at WUR:

• MSc Animal Sciences
• MSc Biology
• MSc Climate Studies
• MSc Environmental Sciences
• MSc Forest and Nature Conservation
• MSc Governance of Sustainable Transformations
• MSc International Land and Water Management
• MSc Tourism, Society and Environment

Following a Master's degree at another university or abroad is often also possible, as your WUR Bachelor's degree is recognized worldwide.

Marine Scientists find themselves in a variety of roles. You could, of course, conduct research or teach, but you could also use your knowledge to provide advice, develop policy, or manage a project. Consider these careers:

• Researcher at a university or research institution.
• Expert in aquaculture or fisheries.
• Advisor to organizations such as the UN, EU, North Sea Foundation, etc.
• Entrepreneur in your own company.

Student Career Services facilitates WUR students towards the labour market. If you need help in your orientation towards your future career. 

To be admitted to the bachelor's programme Marine Sciences, you should have studied mathematics, biology and chemistry.

Have a look at the Application & Admission page for starting at Wageningen University & Research and check whether your prior (international) education qualifies you for this bachelor's programme. 

Are you a Dutch student? Switch the language to Dutch at the top of these pages to view the admission information that applies to you.

Questions about admission or registration? The Student Service Centre can help you.

Curious about the financial investment this program requires? You can find all the information about the program's costs on this page: tuition fees and study costs.

Your student days are about more than just studying. Think student housing, fun parties, and student associations where you'll make friends for life. You can also join various sports clubs, like the student diving club The Seadragons. And all of this surrounded by nature, with the Rhine and the Veluwe just around the corner! In short, there's always something to do in Wageningen. Learn more about student life in Wageningen.