What Is A Level Marine Science?

Ever wondered what lies beneath the ocean's surface? Or how climate change affects marine life? A Level Marine Science lets you dive deep into these questions and more.

This subject brings together biology, chemistry, geography and environmental science. It helps you understand our oceans. It's perfect if you're fascinated by marine life, worried about ocean pollution, or curious about how our planet's biggest ecosystem works.

Let's explore what A Level Marine Science is and why it’s such a unique and exciting subject.

Key Takeaways

• Interdisciplinary science. Marine Science combines biology, chemistry, environmental science and geography. All focused on ocean systems.

• Practical and theoretical. You'll study everything from marine ecosystems and ocean currents to conservation challenges. Often with hands-on fieldwork opportunities

• Cambridge International qualification. This A Level is primarily offered by Cambridge International. Assessment is through written exams and practical work

• Career-focused: Perfect for students considering marine biology, oceanography, environmental science, or conservation careers

Overview of A Level Marine Science

A Level Marine Science is an interdisciplinary science qualification that focuses entirely on the ocean and coastal environments. Unlike traditional science A Levels, this course zooms in on everything ocean-related.

The course is offered by Cambridge International (opens in a new tab)(part of Cambridge Assessment International Education).

You'll explore the physical properties of seawater, study marine organisms, and learn about ocean currents and seafloor geology. You'll also investigate urgent environmental issues like overfishing and coral bleaching.

What makes Marine Science special is how it brings different scientific disciplines together. It's perfect if you can't choose between Biology, Chemistry and Geography!

What Topics Will You Study?

A Level Marine Science covers a fascinating range of topics. Here's what you can expect:

Marine ecosystems and biodiversity

You'll study different marine habitats like coral reefs, mangroves, rocky shores and the open ocean. You'll learn about the amazing organisms that live there. You'll see how they've adapted to their environments, and how energy flows through marine food webs.

Ocean physics and chemistry

This section covers the physical and chemical properties of seawater. You'll explore why seawater is salty and how temperature and density affect ocean currents. You'll look at what happens when gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide dissolve in water.

Understanding ocean chemistry is crucial for grasping issues like ocean acidification. This threatens marine life worldwide.

Plate tectonics and ocean floor formation

Ever wondered how ocean basins formed? You'll study continental drift and seafloor spreading. As well as how tectonic activity creates mid-ocean ridges, deep sea trenches and hydrothermal vents.

This geological perspective shows why the ocean floor looks the way it does and how it changes.

Ocean circulation and currents

You'll investigate the forces that keep ocean water constantly moving. This includes surface currents driven by wind and deep ocean currents caused by temperature and salinity differences. Not least, the global conveyor belt that distributes heat around our planet.

These patterns don't just affect marine life. They influence weather and climate across the entire Earth.

Human impacts and conservation

This is where Marine Science gets really relevant to today's world. You'll examine threats facing our oceans. These include pollution (especially plastics), overfishing, habitat destruction, climate change and coral bleaching.

You'll study conservation strategies and marine protected areas. You'll look at sustainable fishing practices and efforts to restore damaged ecosystems.

Marine resources and management

Oceans provide food, minerals, energy and medicines. You'll learn how humans exploit these resources. And you'll explore the balance between using ocean resources and protecting marine environments.

How Is the Course Assessed?

Paper 1: AS Theory (1 hour 45 mins, 25%)

This paper tests your knowledge of fundamental marine science concepts. Section A has structured questions and Section B involves free-response questions. 

Paper 2: AS Level Data-handling and investigative skills (1 hour 45 mins, 25%)

Structured questions. Assesses your ability to plan investigations, analyse data, and evaluate experiments. 

Paper 3: A Level Theory (1 hour 45 mins, 25%)

This paper tests your knowledge of marine science concepts at a higher level. Section A has structured questions and Section B involves free-response questions. 

Paper 4: A Level Data-handling and investigative skills (1 hour 45 mins, 25%)

Structured and free-response questions. Assesses your ability to plan investigations, analyse data, and evaluate experiments.

What Skills Will You Develop?

A Level Marine Science isn't just about memorising facts about dolphins and coral reefs. You'll develop valuable skills that universities and employers value:

Scientific investigation skills

You'll learn how to design experiments, collect reliable data, and analyse results using statistical methods. These practical skills are essential for any science-based career.

Critical thinking and evaluation

Marine Science constantly asks you to weigh up evidence and consider different viewpoints. Is this conservation strategy working? What's the best solution to overfishing? You'll develop the ability to think critically about complex environmental issues.

Data interpretation

You'll work with graphs, charts, maps and datasets throughout the course. Learning to extract meaningful information from data is a widely useful skill.

Environmental awareness

You'll gain a deep understanding of environmental challenges and potential solutions. This perspective is increasingly valuable as businesses and governments prioritise sustainability.

Fieldwork techniques

If your school offers fieldwork opportunities, you'll learn hands-on techniques. This might include surveying techniques, species identification and water quality testing.

Communication skills

Science is about sharing ideas clearly. Through practical reports and extended answers, you'll practise explaining complex concepts clearly.

How Does Marine Science Compare to Related A Levels?

Here’s how Marine Science stacks up against other science subjects.

Marine Science vs Biology A Level

Biology A Level covers all life on Earth – plants, animals, microorganisms and humans. It's broad and comprehensive. Marine Science zooms in specifically on ocean life and ocean systems. 

However, Biology A Level is more widely recognised by universities. 

Marine Science vs Environmental Science A Level 

Environmental Science looks at environmental issues across all ecosystems. Marine Science focuses almost entirely on marine and coastal environments. 

Marine Science vs Geography

Geography A Level includes physical geography (rivers, weather, rocks) and human geography (cities, development, migration).

Marine Science overlaps with physical geography in topics like coastal processes. But Marine Science goes much deeper into the biology and chemistry of oceans.

The interdisciplinary advantage

Marine Science combines multiple disciplines. You get bits of biology, chemistry, physics, geology and environmental science all in one course.

Who Should Take A Level Marine Science?

A Level Marine Science isn't for everyone. But if you're the right kind of student, it could be absolutely perfect for you.

You should consider Marine Science if you:

Love the ocean

If you're fascinated by marine life. If you enjoy documentaries about the ocean, or feel passionate about protecting our seas. Then, this subject will keep you engaged.

Want to make a difference environmentally

If you care about climate change and plastic pollution. Or if you want to protect endangered species. This course gives you the knowledge to understand these issues properly.

Enjoy practical work

If you prefer getting your hands dirty (or wet!) to sitting in classrooms, Marine Science involves fieldwork, data collection and practical investigations. It's a hands-on subject.

Like connecting different sciences

Not everyone wants to specialise in just chemistry or just biology. If you enjoy linking different scientific ideas together, the interdisciplinary nature will appeal.

Have clear career goals

If you know you want to work in marine conservation, oceanography, or coastal management. A Level Marine Science is fantastic preparation, showing universities you're serious.

Marine Science might not be right if:

• You're applying to very traditional or competitive universities that prefer classic A Levels

• You're not sure about your future career and want to keep all options open

• Your school doesn't offer good fieldwork opportunities (the practical side is important)

• You prefer the breadth of traditional Biology or Geography

Have an honest think about your interests and goals before committing. Chat with your teachers too – they'll help you work out if it's the right fit.

University Courses and Career Paths

University degrees that welcome Marine Science students:

• Marine Biology

• Oceanography

• Environmental Science

• Marine Conservation

• Climate Science

• Coastal Management

• Aquaculture and Fisheries

Career paths after university:

• Marine biologist researching ocean life

• Conservation officer protecting marine habitats

• Oceanographer studying physical ocean processes

• Environmental consultant advising on coastal development

• Fisheries manager ensuring sustainable fishing

• Climate scientist researching ocean-climate systems

• Marine policy advisor influencing government decisions

• Aquarium or marine park specialist

• Science communicator or documentary maker

• Teacher sharing your passion with others

The ocean-related job market is growing. As climate change and environmental issues become urgent, marine science expertise is in demand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there practical fieldwork involved in A Level Marine Science?

Yes, practical work is an important part of Marine Science. Many schools offer fieldwork opportunities. Fieldwork could involve rock pool surveys, measuring water quality or coastal erosion. Fieldwork opportunities vary between schools depending on location and resources. 

Can I take Marine Science with other A Level sciences?

Absolutely! Marine Science combines well with other sciences. It can be part of a balanced A Level combination.

Popular combinations include:

• Marine Science + Biology + Chemistry (if you're seriously interested in marine biology or oceanography)

• Marine Science + Geography + Environmental Science (for a strong environmental focus)

• Marine Science + Chemistry + Maths (good for physical oceanography pathways)

Chat with your teachers about which combination best supports your university and career goals.

Do universities accept A Level Marine Science?

This is an important question, and the answer is: it depends on the university and course.

• For marine-related degrees (Marine Biology, Oceanography, Marine Conservation). A Level Marine Science is usually welcomed.

• For general science degrees, many universities accept Marine Science as a science A Level. Particularly Environmental Science, Geography or broader Life Sciences courses.

• For competitive courses at traditional universities (like Medicine, Veterinary Science). You're safer choosing Biology and Chemistry as your sciences.

Always check specific university entry requirements for courses you're interested in. University websites list exactly which A Levels they require or prefer.

Final Thoughts

A Level Marine Science is an exciting, relevant and deeply rewarding subject for students who feel a genuine connection to the ocean.

It's not the most common A Level choice, but that's part of what makes it special. If you're passionate about marine life, concerned about ocean conservation, or fascinated by how Earth's biggest ecosystem works, this subject lets you explore those interests in real depth.

You'll develop valuable scientific skills, gain environmental awareness and build specialist knowledge. These could launch you into an amazing career protecting or studying our oceans.

References: 

• CIE Marine Science A Level (opens in a new tab)