Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment

School of Life and Environmental Sciences

Bachelor of Environmental Science
(Freshwater Biology) *

* Course suspended for 2013

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.

Study while you see the world

At Deakin you’ll find opportunities to help prepare you for a global future.

In 2013, the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment is introducing a new program to help high achieving students add an international experience to their studies. The Global Science and Technology Program aims to recognise, reward and support high achieving students who would like to conduct part of their studies overseas (via an exchange or study abroad program). Successful applicants will be offered a scholarship of $3,000 to assist with the travel costs. As part of the program, they will be required to participate in the Deakin Global Citizenship program. To find out more, visit the Global Science and Technology Program page.

Deakin's Study Abroad and Exchange Office also 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.

Related courses

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

 

Deakin University acknowledges the traditional land owners of present campus sites.

8th February 2013