Bachelor of Environmental Science
(Freshwater Biology)
The course
Bachelor of Environmental Science (Freshwater Biology)
Warrnambool Campus
The Bachelor of Environmental Science (Freshwater Biology) is a course of study designed to provide fundamental conceptual and practical expertise in a range of biological, ecological and environmental processes and issues in the freshwater environment.
You will gain knowledge, understanding and skills in the interdisciplinary study of freshwater organisms and their interactions with the living and non-living environment; the influence of biotic, physical and chemical processes on the dynamics of freshwater ecosystems; and the impacts of humans on, and management of, the freshwater environment and its resources.
Why study this course?
This unique course is delivered in a novel way to ensure that you are provided with an undergraduate experience that is exciting and provides marketable skills. The course includes hands-on work, field-based practical experiences, and training in high-demand professional skills in a variety of freshwater habitats in western Victoria. You will also have the opportunity to gain workplace experience with an industry or government-based environmental organisation.
Industry and government organisations are represented on the course advisory board to ensure that the course focuses on employability of graduates and Deakin’s government and industry partners (e.g. Parks Victoria, Department of Primary Industries, Department of Sustainability and Environment, Catchment Management Authorities and Water Authorities) contribute to project work during the course to ensure it remains relevant and progressive. These partners provide support and opportunities for students undertaking professional development and training.
Career opportunities
Career opportunities for graduates of this course may include estuary planner, laboratory technician, local government sustainability officer, aquatic ecologist, river and wetland health planner, water diversions planning officer, flood or catchment strategy officers, as well as moving into research or pursuing postgraduate study.
Fieldwork and camps
Fieldwork is embedded in the Freshwater Biology course from first to third year and focuses on rivers, lakes, wetlands and estuaries, locally and in the Grampians and the Otway Ranges. This fieldwork component provides you with practical skills and an understanding of ‘real-world’ water-related environmental issues.
Fieldwork: Into the Wild with Deakin, the Deakin Environment field trip experience
Facilities
Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities including aquarium and fish culture facilities, and a range of boats. The Warrnambool Campus places students within easy reach of rivers, lakes, wetlands and estuaries. Through elective options, students have the opportunity to add an understanding of marine systems and fisheries and aquaculture to their freshwater knowledge.
Tropical Biology Association
The School of Life and Environmental Sciences is a member of the Tropical Biology Association (TBA). This non-governmental, non-profit organisation works in partnership with environmental institutions in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Madagascar and Malaysia. The TBA provides practical training for conservation biologists and practitioners with the potential to have a significant impact on biodiversity management and research. Students benefit from this membership by receiving priority access to places on TBA field courses at reduced rates. Further information is available at www.tropical-biology.org
Flexibility
A degree in Environmental Science is a broad qualification that combines the skills for a specialised career with more generic skills that give graduates job flexibility and broad career options.
International study opportunities
Deakin's Study Abroad and Exchange Office offers various programs including exchange, study abroad, short-term study programs, study tours and international volunteering opportunities, enabling students to study overseas for a few weeks, a trimester, or a year as part of their degree. Deakin Environment students have studied in a range of countries, including New Zealand, Canada, USA and Costa Rica.
Related courses
Dean’s Scholars Program, Environmental Science (Environmental Management and Sustainability), Environmental Science (Marine Biology), Environmental Science (Wildlife and Conservation Biology), Fisheries and Aquaculture, and Science with Environmental Science major sequence.
Course structures and prerequisites
For complete information on course structures and prerequisites refer to the Deakin course search website
Want to find out more?
Contact us at the School of Life and Environmental Sciences
