Written by Issy Hinton
If you’re hoping to pursue a career in marine biology or a related ocean field, choosing the right subjects at A Level (or equivalent) can make a real difference to your university applications and future opportunities.
Biology: The Key Subject
Most universities (but not all) do expect you to study Biology. It forms the foundation of any marine or environmental science degree and gives you essential knowledge about living organisms, ecosystems, and how life functions.
A Second Science: Highly Recommended
Universities also like to see at least one additional science subject. Here are some strong options:
- Geography
Geography provides a broad understanding of how the world works. You’ll explore topics such as coasts, water cycles, carbon cycles, and globalisation. This systems-based perspective is incredibly valuable when thinking about ocean challenges like climate change, habitat loss, and human impacts.
- Chemistry
Chemistry helps you understand the chemical processes that affect the ocean, including issues such as ocean acidification and nutrient cycles. It’s especially useful if you’re interested in marine science research.
If your college or school offers subjects like Environmental Science or Geology, these can also be excellent choices. They provide relevant knowledge about ecosystems, Earth systems, and environmental processes.
Languages are always useful!
Studying a language such as Spanish or French can be extremely beneficial. Many tropical marine jobs are based in countries where these languages are spoken, and being multilingual can open doors internationally.
If You Choose Subjects Earlier
In some countries, students choose their academic pathways at a younger age. If that applies to you, consider building a strong foundation in:
- Sciences (especially Biology and Chemistry)
- Geography
- Maths
- Physics
- Physical Education
- A language
These subjects will keep your options open and prepare you well for marine-related degrees.
What Did the WiseOceans Team Study?
We asked members of the WiseOceans team what they studied at high school. Here’s what they told us:
- Abbie (Managing Director): Geography, Biology and English
- Georgie (Head of Science and Conservation): Geography, Biology (AS), Classics and Archaeology, and Art
- Hannah (Academy and Careers Manager): Biology, Chemistry and Maths
- Issy (Media and Comms Coordinator): Biology, Chemistry, Geography and EPQ
- Eirinn (Academy Coordinator): Biology, Geography, IT and Sport
- Lianne (Discovery Coordinator): Psychology, Philosophy, and English Literature
- Ashley (Marine Educator – Seychelles Team Leader): English, Maths, Life Orientation, Afrikaans (South African language), Business, Geography and Physical science
As you can see, the majority of our team studied Biology at A Level, but there’s also plenty of variety! There’s no single “perfect” combination.
Choose Subjects You Enjoy
One of the most important things to remember is to choose subjects you genuinely enjoy. Students sometimes pick subjects because they think they “should,” even if they don’t like them. This can lead to struggling academically, losing motivation, and even resenting their studies.
Passion and enjoyment often lead to better performance! Universities do like to see strong grades and genuine interest.
Your Education Doesn’t Have to End at Undergraduate Level
Your A Levels aren’t the final step, and neither is your undergraduate degree. Many students go on to complete a master’s degree.
In fact, when selecting students for postgraduate courses, lecturers often look closely at life experience, practical skills, and commitment – not just academic background. So, choosing a broader subject or a non-science subject for an undergraduate degree doesn’t mean you can’t end up studying marine biology at a post-graduate level.
Some members of the WiseOceans team studied Environmental Science or Biology at undergraduate level and later completed master’s degrees in Marine Biological Sciences.
We hope this blog gives you a clearer idea of which A Levels to consider if this is the path you’re hoping to take. Remember: build a strong scientific foundation, stay curious about the world, and choose subjects that excite you.
