#1 Melbourne university for science facilities
#1 Melbourne university for marine and freshwater biology
#1 Melbourne university for course satisfaction
Why choose marine science at Deakin
Marine science at Deakin is the state of Victoria’s only dedicated marine science degree where you will have access to spectacular marine environments teeming with rich biodiversity on your doorstep. Become an expert in ocean systems by exploring a broad range of disciplines, including marine biology and ecology, oceanography, marine mapping, conservation, aquaculture, fisheries, and marine and coastal management. The Bachelor of Marine Science equips you with the skills needed to create a sustainable future for the world’s oceans.
The course runs across two coastal locations – our Queenscliff Marine Science Centre, where you can observe living marine animals and plants, learn in a state-of-the-art aquarium and enjoy access to the marine and coastal ecosystem on Queenscliff’s doorstep, and our Warrnambool campus, home to cutting-edge labs and facilities. You will graduate ready to make a real contribution to how we understand and protect our oceans.
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Degrees shaped by employers
Study a program informed by marine and environmental practice, aligned with current ocean challenges.
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Practical learning for every student
Apply your learning through practical experiences connected to real marine contexts.
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Field-based marine learning
Build skills through fieldwork that reflect marine research, monitoring and ecosystem assessment at Deakin’s Queenscliff Marine Science Centre.
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Specialised marine science focus
Develop expertise in marine systems while building strong scientific and analytical capability.
Connected to industry
Deakin’s strong industry connections help shape your learning. Build practical experience in real workplace contexts through work-integrated learning, mentoring and networking opportunities. Industry advisory boards also help shape our degrees, which means what you study is current, relevant and aligned to what your future employers need.
Deakin puts employability first
Career outcomes
Develop multidisciplinary skills for careers across marine research, conservation and environmental management. You may also pursue further study towards a research career in a specialised area of marine science.
Marine biologist
Study marine organisms and their habitats, behaviours and environmental impacts. Collect and analyse samples, monitor marine species and contribute to conservation, fisheries and sustainable marine management.
- $97k
Typical annual salary in Australia
- 10%
Projected job growth in 5 years
Microbiologist
Study microorganisms and their interactions with living systems and the environment. Conduct laboratory research, analyse samples and investigate how microorganisms affect ecosystems and biological processes.
- $90k
Typical annual salary in Australia
- 10%
Projected job growth in 5 years
Professional areas
- Oceanography
- Marine biotechnology
- Fisheries
- Remote sensing
- Marine ecology
- Microbiology and genomics
FAQs
Deakin's campuses in Melbourne, Geelong and Warrnambool are set in vibrant, multicultural communities where it is easy to connect and feel at home. As the #1 university in Australia for international student happiness and student satisfaction, you will be supported at every step of your journey. You can join clubs and societies through the Deakin University Student Association (DUSA), attend social events, go on trips and live on campus to meet people from around the world. Each campus has fitness centres, cafes and 24-hour security, as well as prayer rooms and multifaith chaplains.
Deakin offers a range of merit-based scholarships that can reduce your tuition fees by 20%, 25%, 50% or 100% for the duration of your degree. Eligibility varies by scholarship and the degree you choose, but you will automatically be considered for most scholarships when you apply to Deakin. Use the Find a scholarship tool and filter by 'citizenship' to see what is available to you, or explore Australia Awards scholarships if you are from an eligible country.
As an international student at Deakin, you can work part time according to the conditions of your visa. On a Student Visa (Subclass 500), you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during trimesters. When you are on a trimester break you can work as much as you want. Compulsory work experience that forms part of your degree does not count toward this limit. Find part-time roles and internships through DeakinTALENT and learn more about working in Australia.
Most students studying full time at Deakin need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). You can apply for this visa after you accept your offer and receive your electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). To apply, you will need a valid passport, your CoE, proof of Overseas Student Health Cover and any other documents required by the Department of Home Affairs. Apply as early as possible, but do not book travel until your visa has been granted. Find out more about student visas.
Australia is widely regarded as one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the world for students, with strong legal protections, reliable public services and a multicultural community. In fact, Melbourne is ranked the #4 student city in the world! At Deakin, you will be part of a supportive community, with 24/7 help, dedicated campus security and practical tools to help you feel safe, confident and connected. Deakin’s SafeZone app also connects you directly to campus security and support services if you ever need help. Find out more about studying in Australia.
Deakin offers a wide range of support to help you settle in and succeed throughout your studies – we are ranked the #1 university in Melbourne for student support. You can access 1:1 study support, English language support, career planning help, disability services and free counselling, as well as financial assistance if you need it. On campus, the SafeZone app and 24/7 security services mean help is always within reach. You can explore the full range of support services for international students or start an online chat with a student ambassador before you arrive.
To enrol in an undergraduate degree at Deakin, many degrees require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 (or equivalent). Some degrees require higher scores so check the entry requirements tab on the degree page for details. You may also meet the requirement through recent secondary or university study completed in English, or by demonstrating five or more years of living and working in an English-speaking country. Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis. If you do not yet meet the requirement, the Deakin University English Language Institute (DUELI) offers pathway programs to help develop your English reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. Completion of DUELI’s English for Academic Purposes can give you the minimum English language requirements for most Deakin degrees.
Deakin is the #1 university in Melbourne for international student graduate employment. Our degrees are developed with industry insight, so you will gain career-ready skills from the beginning. Each Deakin student can access work-integrated learning through opportunities including placements, internships and projects with well-known industry partners. Our dedicated international student career support program helps you learn about the Australian workforce, make connections and build your network through placements. You will get support with your resume, help looking for an internship or a job after graduation and even advice about your career options overseas.
There is more than one way to study at Deakin. If you do not meet the academic requirements, Deakin College offers a guaranteed pathway to Deakin with small, supportive classes on campus. If you meet the academic requirements but not the English requirements, you can enrol in a Deakin University English Language Institute (DUELI) English pathway program and progress to your chosen Deakin degree upon successful completion. Deakin also has formal pathway agreements with partner institutions in countries like China, India, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and the United States, so you can start your studies locally before transferring to Australia to complete your degree.
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. Learn more about our achievements on our University rankings page, or explore our sources page for supporting references.
What will I study in the Bachelor of Marine Science?
The Bachelor of Marine Science is a three-year degree. You will explore ocean systems and marine environments while building practical skills to study and protect marine ecosystems.
Foundations in marine and environmental science
Explore marine and environmental systems
Learn how ocean ecosystems function and how physical and biological processes interact.
Understand human impacts on oceans
Examine key challenges affecting marine environments and the science behind sustainable management.
Develop core scientific capabilities
Build skills in data analysis, observation and communication for marine research.
Develop marine science expertise
Advance marine science understanding
Strengthen your knowledge of marine biology, ecology and ocean processes.
Apply skills through field experiences
Engage in practical activities that reflect marine monitoring and environmental assessment.
Broaden your studies with electives
Select complementary study areas to support your interests and career direction.
Advanced application and career preparation
Undertake advanced marine analysis
Engage with complex marine issues using scientific and analytical approaches.
Apply learning through real-world projects
Complete projects that reflect contemporary marine and coastal challenges.
Strengthen career-ready capabilities
Build teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills for marine science careers.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Marine Science, you must pass 24 credit points.
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
Are you a current student? For course information that applies to the year you started your degree, visit the handbook.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements
Units
You are required to complete 12 core units (these are essential units for this degree)
In your first trimester you must also complete three 0-credit point units which are compulsory for this degree.
Level 1 - Trimester 1
Plus one elective unit (one credit point) or one minor unit (one credit point)
Level 1 - Trimester 2
Marine Science Major unit (one credit point)
Plus one elective unit (one credit point) or one minor unit (one credit point)
Level 2 - Trimester 1
Marine Science Major unit (one credit point)
Plus one elective unit (one credit point) or one minor unit (one credit point)
Level 2 - Trimester 2
Marine Science Major unit (one credit point)
Plus one elective unit (one credit point) or one minor unit (one credit point)
Level 2 - Trimester 3
Level 3 - Trimester 1
Marine Science Major unit (1 credit point)
Plus one elective unit (one credit point) or one minor unit (one credit point)
Level 3 - Trimester 2
2 x Marine Science Major units (2 credit points)
Plus one elective unit (one credit point) or one minor unit (one credit point)
# Must have successfully completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0 credit point unit)
You must complete one of these major sequences.
Refer to the details of each major sequence for availability.
Marine Science Majors:
Each major is comprised of six (6) credit points - one credit point per unit
Ocean, Fisheries and Aquaculture Sciences (Geelong)
Sustainable Marine Management (Warrnambool)
Choose six open elective units from across the University, including from a completely different study area (subject to meeting unit prerequisites) or you have the option to complete one minor sequence from the list below* (this will use four of your six open electives).
It is important to note that some elective units may include compulsory placement, study tours, work-based training or collaborative research training arrangements.
Minors*:
*Each minor is comprised of 4 credit points
What to expect while studying
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.
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
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.
Students can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, 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.
Students are required to complete units in Trimester 3.
Students enrolled at the Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus will be required to undertake some of their practical learning experiences at the Queenscliff Marine Science Centre.
Placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks. Learn about key dates at Deakin.
Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
You’ll gain practical experience through a placement of at least 80 hours at a course-related host organisation. This provides you with opportunities for workplace visits, field trips and industry learning, helping you build valuable professional networks and gain insight into your potential career outcomes. Explore the SEBE WIL program .
Elective units may also provide additional opportunities for Work Integrated Learning experiences.
At Deakin, we're committed to ensuring an inclusive environment that supports all students to belong, thrive and succeed. We work closely with students, where needed, to identify potential barriers to participation and where possible, provide tailored support so students can engage with learning and assessment activities.
If you are neurodivergent, have a disability, health condition or mental health condition that may impact your study or participation in university life, and want to know how Deakin could support you, contact our Domestic students (opens in a new window) or International students (opens in a new window) or Disability Resource Centre (opens email client) teams for a collaborative and confidential discussion. This discussion is to support you to make plans for your studies and future career and will not have any bearing on your application to the course.
When can I start?
When you study depends on your course, location and available intakes. Check the table to see when you can start and how study is offered throughout the year.
* Students may be required to undertake cross campus study between the Waurn Ponds and Warrnambool campuses for some units depending on the Major or electives selected
Your course learning outcomes describe the knowledge, skills and capabilities you’ll develop and be able to demonstrate by the time you graduate. Built into your course through your units and assessments, they provide a clear picture of what you’ll be equipped to know, understand and do – preparing you to apply your learning with confidence beyond university.
| Course Learning Outcomes |
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| Contribute scientific predictions, observations, innovation and knowledge towards a world-wide, sustainable blue economy by integrating and applying well-developed, multidisciplinary knowledge in the marine science field. Apply technical capabilities, including emerging marine technology and innovation and use them in a range of problem solving activities in a professional and/or academic setting within the field of marine science. |
| Use appropriate scientific language and formats including written, visual, oral and graphical forms to communicate and engage with a broad spectrum of society, such as those in industry, policy, regulation and the community. Generate, analyse and present key information in a professional manner with evidence from local and global contributions and contexts. |
| Use well developed technical skills and judgement to retrieve, analyse, synthesise and evaluate information using a variety of tools and techniques. Apply quantitative skills in marine science using software programs associated with computational science and system dynamics. |
| Critically evaluate scientific information from multiple sources and use scientific methods and frameworks to structure and plan observations, experimentation, fieldwork investigations. Use analytical thinking and judgement to evaluate, synthesise and generate an integrated knowledge, formulate hypotheses and test them against evidence-based scientific concepts and principles in the field of marine science. |
| Apply traditional, emerging and innovative approaches and information to scope and solve real world (authentic) problems in marine science. Evaluate scientific methodologies, hypotheses, laws, facts and principles to create solutions for authentic marine science issues taking in account human dimensions of conservation management. |
| Take personal, professional and social responsibility within changing professional science contexts to develop autonomy as learners and evaluate own performance. Work autonomously, responsibly and safely to solve unstructured problems and actively apply knowledge of regulatory frameworks and scientific methodologies to make informed choices. |
| Work in various team roles and also work collaboratively in a team to contribute towards achieving team goals. Apply interpersonal skills to interact and collaborate effectively to enhance outcomes in diverse professional, social and cultural contexts. |
| Recognise the role, relevance and ethical implications of marine science in society and apply cultural, economic and social awareness, including those of indigenous people. Adopt, appreciate and respect scientific morals and ethics, including working with animals. |
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Marine Science
- Year
2027 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400310633 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), International full-fee paying place
1400710633 - Warrnambool, International full-fee paying place - Deakin code
- S337
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 0100303 Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Warrnambool
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
Fees
Estimated tuition fee
$44,800
for 1 yr full-time AUD
The estimated tuition fee above is based on a typical first-year full-time enrolment of 8 credit points and is provided as a guide only. Your tuition fees are determined by your course and unit enrolment. Your tuition fees will vary depending on your study load, the course duration, and any approved recognition of prior learning.
Scholarships
Deakin scholarships recognise your hard work and achievements. Our support can ease the financial pressure of studying in Australia so you stay focused on your success. Numbers are limited, so apply early for the best chance.
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
Applications can be made directly to the University through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's International Student Application Service.
We recommend engaging with a Deakin Authorised Agent who can assist you with the process and submit the application.
Apply through VTAC
If you are an international student completing an Australian Year 12 in Australia or overseas, you must submit an application through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC). In addition, you may also apply directly to Deakin through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's international student application service.
Recognition of prior learning
We value your previous study and experience. Recognition of prior learning enables you to get credit for what you've already achieved. When you apply, we'll consider your previous study and experience for recognition of prior learning.