Extensive laboratory and fieldwork experiences
Base yourself around some of the richest biodiversity in Australia
80+ hours of industry-based learning
Key facts
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2021 close 27 June 2021
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Course information
Study Deakin’s Bachelor of Environmental Science (Marine Biology) at our Warrnambool Campus and gain extensive hands-on experience exploring coastal ecosystems and marine environments in an area that has some of the richest biodiversity in Australia. With a biological and ecological focus, this course equips students with the skills and knowledge to sustainably manage precious marine environments both in the classroom and in the environment through hands-on field trips in beautiful surrounds.
Gain practical experience in the field and hone your skills through placement opportunities with prominent marine and environmental organisations. Develop a deep understanding of how marine ecosystems function and gain skills in modern scientific research methods under the guidance of established scientists, all while building professional relationships that can help you when you graduate.
Want to study marine biology in some of the best natural marine and coastal environments in Australia?
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.
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 (five credit points)
- 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 (one credit point)
Level 2 - Trimester 1
Level 2 - Trimester 2
Plus one elective unit (one credit point)
Level 3 - Trimester 1
Plus one elective unit (one credit point)
Level 3 - Trimester 2
Plus two elective units (two credit points)
# 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
2021 course information
1400718041 - Warrnambool, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
This course is approved by the University under the Higher Education Standards Framework.
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7.
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.
Need help?
Ask a question about studying at Deakin
Entry requirements
Current or recent Year 12
If you are currently studying Year 12 in 2020 or completed Year 12 in 2018 or 2019 and have not attempted higher education or VET study since, your selection is based on the following.
Prerequisite subjects
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.
ATAR
This course uses the ATAR as part of its selection consideration
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Higher education experience
If you have undertaken at least one unit of higher education after secondary schooling, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
Senior secondary prerequisite subjects
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
VET education experience
If you have undertaken at least one unit of Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your secondary education and subsequent academic records as part of its selection considerations.
Senior secondary prerequisite subjects
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Work and life experience
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago or did not finish Year 12, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
Senior secondary prerequisite subjects
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Selection adjustments
Subject adjustment
A study score of 30 in any English, any Mathematics or any Science equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 10 points.
Access and equity
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the 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. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.
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 2021 students (PDF, 592.2KB) - 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 for Trimester 1, 2022 open in August. Each year, thousands of students prepare for uni with the help of Deakin support services. We offer a huge range of support, including one-on-one consultations, webinars, online resources and events throughout the year.
Direct applications are now open for:
- recent Year 12 students who completed secondary education in the past two years
- applicants with work and life experience
- applicants with TAFE experience
- applicants with higher education experience.
Please note: If you’re applying for more than one course, you need to apply through VTAC.
Apply to Deakin after reading the course entry requirements, or learn more about the application process.
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
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
Footnotes
*QS Stars University Ratings 2016-2017
^ARWU Rankings 2018
* Application close dates vary. Some courses have limited places, apply early to avoid missing out.
+Produced by Deakin University in August 2020. The information in this video is accurate at the time of filming. Read the course page for the latest information.