Overview
The program provides a comprehensive, interdisciplinary background in Marine Biology, with a strong practical component, covering the structure and function of marine organisms, the processes controlling functioning of marine ecosystems, and the production and management of marine resources.

Program activities are supported by the university's proximity to diverse marine ecosystems, and access to specialized facilities, including marine stations located in the Ria Formosa lagoon, the Guadiana estuary and Sagres, a vessel dedicated to teaching and research (Marine Stations | University of Algarve), and a scientific diving center. Students also benefit from close links with research centers of excellence (Centre of Marine Sciences - CCMAR, and Centre for Marine and Environmental Research - CIMA), associate laboratories (ARNET and CIMAR-LA), and collaborative laboratories (GreenCoLab and S2AQUAcoLAB) with strong connections to the business sector, fostering exposure to cutting-edge research and advanced technologies.
 

Objectives

The Marine Biology Bachelor program is designed to provide graduates with strong scientific and technical expertise in both the fundamental and applied areas of Marine Biology, including marine ecology, the sustainable use of marine resources and ecosystems, and marine biotechnology.

 

The applications for public higher education are made annually through national call and/or special contests.
 
Career Opportunities

The Marine Biology Bachelor program combines theoretical and practical training to provide an in-depth understanding of marine organisms and ecosystems, and the principles of sustainable use and management of marine living resources. Graduates are well prepared to pursue postgraduate studies or careers as:

  • Specialist professionals in natural parks, marine protected areas, aquaria, oceanariums, and zoological parks; 
  • Specialist technicians in the fisheries, aquaculture, biotechnology, and ecotourism sectors; 
  • Research assistants in institutes, laboratories, and research centers; 
  • Specialists in local, regional, and national public authorities responsible for environmental protection, nature conservation, and the sustainable management of marine resources; 
  • Entrepreneurs in technical innovation areas, natural products and ecotourism.
External Link(s)
Data and official course statistics

"The University of Algarve changed my life. It was not just the almost idyllic location, the environmental surroundings, the modern facilities, the scientific strength and youthfulness of the teaching team, the excellent curricular plan, the audacity to be different and do differently - it was the philosophy of a university that although young, very quickly made a name for itself as unique, innovative and integrative. Thank you very much, UAlg!"

Élio Vicente

Marine Biology