The University of Algarve is a leader in teaching and research in marine sciences, fisheries, aquaculture, biodiversity and conservation in Portugal. The University, with approximately 9500 students, offers a variety of BSc, MSc and PhD programmes in these areas.

The largest research centre is the Centre of Marine Sciences (CCMAR) an independent multidisciplinary, non-profit research organization within the University of Algarve system. CCMAR is one of the foremost marine science research centres in Portugal, classified as "Excellent" in the 2014 research assessment of the Foundation for Science and Technology. The ongoing research in CCMAR focuses on various aspects of marine life and ecosystems, covering areas such as Molecular Biology and Biotechnology of marine organisms, Genetics of Populations, Endocrinology, Biophysics, Aquaculture, Biodiversity and Ecology of marine populations and communities, Ecohydrology, Organic Chemistry, Environmental Technologies and the Study and Management of Fisheries Resources. CCMAR hosts 110 scientists, 40 PhD students and 100 young scientists and technicians. CCMAR has very good infrastructure and equipment to carry out research and advanced training.