Extensive laboratory and fieldwork experiences
Base yourself around some of the richest biodiversity in Australia
80+ hours of industry-based learning
Key facts
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Course information
Gain extensive hands-on experience exploring coastal ecosystems and marine environments in an area that has some of the highest biodiversity in Australia. Learn how to sustainably manage precious marine environments with Deakin’s Bachelor of Environmental Science (Marine Biology).
A unique opportunity to study marine biology surrounded by some of the best natural marine and coastal environments in Australia.
The Bachelor of Environmental Science (Marine Biology) is offered at our Warrnambool Campus on the banks of the Hopkins River estuary at the western end of the Great Ocean Road.
Learn in the environment and benefit from extensive practical experience through fieldwork in natural marine environments and ecosystems along the Victorian coast, offering a distinct advantage over marine biology students studying elsewhere. Conduct fieldwork in estuaries, intertidal rocky shores, shallow marine habitats and sandy beaches, and develop professional skills in modern scientific research methods, ecological impact assessments and marine and coastal management.
Through this exposure to real-life experiences, you will discover the great diversity that exists in coastal and oceanic ecosystems, and learn how to use scientific methods and tools to sustainably manage precious marine environments and resources, relevant to both Australia and overseas.
You’ll also have the opportunity to leverage our extensive industry connections to undertake volunteer projects and placements with government and non-government organisations including:
- Parks Victoria
- Catchment Management Authorities
- aquaculture industries
- environmental consultants
- aquariums
- Queenscliff Marine Discovery Centre
Placements allow you to kickstart your career by networking with potential employers. For those looking to expand their global network, there are also opportunities to gain a broader view of the world by electing to study and volunteer overseas.
This course has a strong ecological focus, linking biological and oceanographic processes in the study of marine environments. You’ll learn about a range of marine and coastal ecosystems from coral reefs to icebergs, estuaries to oceans, and surf zones to the deep abyss. Through fieldwork you’ll also directly observe, and investigate, how marine ecosystems function, how marine organisms interact with their living and non-living environments, and how we can identify and measure human impacts on these environments. This will prepare you for the challenges you’ll face after graduation so you can enter the workforce with the skills needed to tackle industry problems.
Units in the course may include assessment hurdle requirements.
Read MoreCourse structure
To complete the Bachelor of Environmental Science (Marine Biology), students must attain 24 credit points. Most units (think of units as ‘subjects’) are equal to 1 credit point. So that means in order to gain 24 credit points, you’ll need to study and successfully complete 24 units (AKA ‘subjects’) over your entire degree. Most students choose to study 4 units per trimester, and usually undertake two trimesters each year.
The course comprises a total of 24 credit points which must include the following:
- 19 core units
- 5 elective units
- Completion of STP050 Academic Integrity (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
- Completion of SLE010 Laboratory and Fieldwork Safety Induction Program (0 credit-point compulsory unit)
- Completion of STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0 credit-point compulsory unit)
- level 1 - up to 10 credit points
- Level 3 - at least 6 credit points
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements. Click here for more information.
19
Core units
5
Elective units
24
Total units
Core
Level 1 - Trimester 1
Level 1 - Trimester 2
Plus one elective unit
Level 2 - Trimester 1
Level 2 - Trimester 2
Plus one elective unit
Level 3 - Trimester 1
Plus one elective unit
Level 3 - Trimester 2
Plus two elective units
* available at Warrnambool campus from 2021
# Must have successfully completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0 credit point unit)
Electives
Select from a range of elective units offered across many courses. In some cases you may even be able to choose elective units from a completely different discipline area (subject to meeting unit requirements).
It is important to note that some elective units may include compulsory placement, study tours, work-based training or collaborative research training arrangements.
Key information
2020 course information
1400718041 - Warrnambool, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Campuses by intake
Campus availability varies per trimester. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Read more to learn where this course will be offered throughout the year.
Trimester 1 - March
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Warrnambool
Trimester 2 - July
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Warrnambool
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Additional course information
In addition to student contribution fees, students should be aware that they may be required to meet their own expenses in connection with travel, food and accommodation while on fieldwork.
Course duration - additional information
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as accessing or completing work placements.
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Workload
Students can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include classes, seminars, field trips, practicals and online interaction. Individual unit details in the course structure provide specific information relating to teaching activities in each unit. Students also need to study and complete assessment tasks in their own time.
Participation requirements
Placement can occur at any time, including during the standard holiday breaks listed here: https://www.deakin.edu.au/courses/key-dates.
Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. Click here for more information.
Work experience
The course includes a compulsory professional practice unit that requires you to undertake at least 80 hours of work experience in a course-related host organisation. You’ll gain practical experience by completing a two week placement at a course-related host organisation to provide you with opportunities for workplace visits, field trips, industry learning and to establish valuable networks – giving you better insight into your possible career outcomes.
You’ll also have the opportunity to undertake a discipline-specific industry placement as part of your course. deakin.edu.au/sebe/wil.
Elective units may also provide additional opportunities for Work Integrated Learning experiences.
Entry requirements
Entry information
Deakin University offers admission to undergraduate courses through a number of Admission categories.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements.
Please note that meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee selection, which is based on merit, likelihood of success and availability of places in the course.
For more information on the Admission Criteria and Selection (Higher Education Courses) Policy visit the Deakin Policy Library
Entry for applicants with recent secondary education (previous three years) will be based on their performance in a Senior Secondary Certificate of Education, with pre-requisite units 3 and 4; a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or 20 in English other than EAL. Applicants will be selected in accordance with the published Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) for that year.
Refer to the VTAC Guide for the latest pre-requisite information www.vtac.edu.au
Entry for applicants with previous Tertiary, VET, life or work experience will be based on their performance in:
- a Certificate IV in a related discipline OR
- a Diploma in any discipline or 50% completion of a Diploma in a related discipline OR
- successful completion of relevant study at an accredited higher education institution equivalent to at least two Deakin University units OR
- other evidence of academic capability judged to be equivalent for example relevant work or life experience
Admissions information
Learn more about this course and others that Deakin offers by visiting VTAC for more information. You can also discover how Deakin compares to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning by visiting the ComparED website.
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enables Deakin to consider disadvantageous circumstances you may have experienced and their impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you're from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements.
You can also find out about different entry pathways into Deakin courses if you can't get in straight from high school.
Finally, Deakin is committed to admissions transparency. As part of that commitment, you can learn more about our first intake of 2019 students (PDF, 746.6KB) - their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the Recognition of Prior Learning System which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose to study as each unit has its own costs. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students undertaking the first year of this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the time it takes to complete your course and any approved Recognition of Prior Learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together 8 credit points of a typical combination of units for that course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year.
You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the Handbook.
Learn more about fees and available payment options.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships
Apply now
How to apply
Applications through VTAC have now closed.
Applications can be made directly to the University through the Course and Scholarship Applicant Portal.
For more information on the application process and closing dates, visit the how to apply page.
Please complete the Register your interest form to receive further information about our direct application opportunities.
Entry pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Environmental Science (Marine Biology) with our pathways finder.
Contact information
Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment
School of Life and Environmental Sciences
deakin.edu.au/life-environmental-sciences
Prospective student enquiries
Are you looking to apply for this course or would like further information?
Call 1800 693 888 or email us at myfuture@deakin.edu.au
Enquire online
Current student course and enrolment enquiries
Call 03 9244 6699 or email us at sebe-enquire@deakin.edu.au
Submit an online enquiry
Frequently asked questions
What are the key study start dates?
Browse all start and finish dates for Deakin’s main study periods. You’ll also find dates relating to applications and prospective student events, plus a list of all public holidays and study breaks.
How much does it cost to study at Deakin?
Your tuition fees will depend on the type of student you are, the course you study and the year you start. Fees are based on an annual amount; they don't cover the entire duration of the course.
Use our fee estimator to gauge what your fees could be per year.
Can I speak to someone in person about my study options?
Yes! We regularly host a range of events including 1:1 consultations and information sessions, to assist you with your study options and career planning. Check out our upcoming events or contact our Prospective Student Enquiry Centre on 1800 693 888 for more information.
Am I eligible for a scholarship with this course?
Scholarships are available for domestic and international students at all study levels. Find a scholarship that works for you.
Can I claim recognition of prior learning (RPL) for this course?
In some courses, you can reduce your overall study time and tuition cost by getting your work and previous study experience recognised as recognition of prior learning (RPL).
Why choose Deakin
Want a degree that’s more than just a qualification? Our industry connections, world-class facilities and practical approach to learning are just some of the reasons why Deakin students graduate confident and ready to thrive in the jobs of tomorrow.
Career outcomes
As a graduate with far-reaching knowledge of marine biology and extensive fieldwork experience you’ll be sought-after in a wide range of roles including:
- marine educator (e.g. marine aquaria or ecotourism)
- park ranger
- fisheries officer
- aquaculture technician or manager
- marine biology consultant
- laboratory technician
- local government environmental officer
- sustainability project officer
- employee of local water authorities and GIS analysts.
The development of transferable soft skills, research skills and critical thinking also makes graduates more broadly employable across the environmental science and management sectors.
Once you’ve gained five years’ experience working in the environmental industry, you may be eligible to become a Certified Environmental Practitioner through the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand (EIANZ). For full membership details, visit https://www.eianz.org/membership-information/membership-categories.
Course learning outcomes
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Appreciate the structural make up of coastal and marine environments, their physical and chemical characteristics and interaction to recognise how organisms live and exist in dynamic environments. Articulate the form and functions of organisms and how they manage environmental challenges in highly diverse and dynamic environments. Assess habitats and organisms and recognise sustainability issues and concerns to manage and conserve animals and plants within marine environments and to evaluate sustainability. |
| Communication | Use appropriate scientific language and formats including written, visual, oral and graphical forms to communicate with a range of audiences, including the general public, environmental managers and scientists. Generate, analyse and present key information in a professional manner with evidence from local, national, and international contributions and contexts. |
| Digital literacy | Use well developed technical skills and judgement to locate, analyse and synthesise information and responsibly disseminate information using a variety of tools and techniques. |
| Critical thinking | Locate and evaluate scientific information from multiple sources and use scientific methods and frameworks to structure and plan observations, experimentation, fieldwork investigations and to undertake environmental impact and risk assessment. Use critical and analytical thinking and judgement to analyse, synthesise and generate an integrated knowledge, formulate hypotheses and test them against evidence-based scientific concepts and principles in the context of aquatic environment. |
| Problem solving | Identify possible causes, effects and underlying environmental problems, brainstorm potential solutions, and develop criteria for evaluating those solutions. Provide specialist advice to solve environmental problems by designing and planning investigations and using scientific tools and techniques to apply systems and management perspectives to formulate future sustainability and conservation solutions to problems. |
| Self-management | Work independently and responsibly with initiative and judgement to function safely and professionally in a manner that assimilates feedback and incorporates refection for future learning and ethical practice. |
| Teamwork | Collaboratively work with others in order to critically analyse, problem solve, develop and manage plans for generating sustainable processes and solutions to manage and conserve the environment. |
| Global citizenship | Adopt and value multidisciplinary knowledge and perspectives for evaluating, integrating and incorporating strategies and solutions in scoping, planning and managing alternative sustainable solutions from local to global environmental problems. Adopt, appreciate and respect scientific morals and ethics, including working with animals. |
Approved by Faculty Board 27 June 2019
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*QS Stars University Ratings 2016-2017
^ARWU Rankings 2018
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