Explore your study options
Our purpose-built marine facilities allow you to test your knowledge in real-world environments while you study. You’ll graduate ready to tackle the latest in conservation, sustainability and management of our marine environment.
Undergraduate
Undergraduate (your first degree)
An undergraduate degree is generally completed between two to four years, depending on the pattern of study and any recognition of prior learning you may have. Associate degrees, bachelor and bachelor with honours are all undergraduate degrees.
Research
Higher Degrees by Research (supervised research)
Research degrees are research based master’s or PhD programs that focus on a single area of expertise. They provide students the opportunity to carry out highly specialised research under expert supervision.
Choose a marine science degree that will get you work ready
Be taught by world-leading marine scientists dedicated to equipping you with the skills and knowledge required to enter the marine and environmental employment sectors.
Hands on, in nature
Our campuses are close to some of Australia’s most renowned coastlines for fieldwork, giving you access to a diverse array of marine animals, plants and coastal locations, such as rocky shores, mangroves and open ocean.
Real experience with real employers
You’ll have the chance to access placements with high-profile organisations such as Parks Victoria, the Australian Institute of Marine Science and other local, state and government agencies.
Professional recognition
Our Bachelor of Marine Science is an interdisciplinary program that aligns closely with the National Marine Science Plan. It provides a broad field of marine science studies where you can select a major in either ocean, fisheries and aquaculture sciences or sustainable marine management.
Top professional roles in marine science
According to the World Economic Forum, climate change mitigation and environment management technologies will be among the top drivers for job growth over the next three years, with over one million new sustainability and environmental protection roles worldwide.^
Graduate ready to help manage our marine habitats and ecosystems, with access to a diverse range of career opportunities and roles. Graduates in marine science are multidisciplinary and enjoy a diverse range of career options including:
- aquaculture
- biodiversity conservation
- fisheries
- marine biochemistry and biotechnology
- marine biology and ecology
- marine management
- microbiology and genomics
- oceanography
- remote sensing and quantitative modelling.
World leader in environmental research
Deakin was awarded the highest possible rating in environmental sciences and environmental science and management by the Australian Research Council’s State of Australian University Research report. This highlights our world-class facilities, academic reputation and research impact.
I love the hands-on nature of our marine units – from developing essential skills in our state-of-the-art laboratories and applying these skills out into our local marine environment, the Great Southern Reef.
Prue Francis
Senior Lecturer, Marine Science
World-class teaching experiences
Our state-of-the-art facilities, hands-on learning opportunities, and industry placements will allow you to stand out and ensure that you graduate job ready.
Professional work experience
Every marine science student at Deakin completes a professional practice unit that includes an industry-based placement (internship). This not only provides you with experience but the opportunity to start establishing your professional networks, all while receiving credit towards your degree.
Strong industry connections
Our close links with industry, including the Victorian Fisheries Authority, Parks Victoria and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, ensure you'll graduate with the skills and knowledge your future employers are looking for.
Unrivalled facilities
Learn and study in prime locations while you pursue your passion for marine science. Our coastal Warrnambool and Geelong Waurn Ponds campuses give you access to amazing marine ecosystems and state-of-the-art facilities.
Explore our marine facilities
Discover what sets Deakin apart with facilities located right on the doorstep of pristine coastal ecosystems and some of Australia's most renowned coastlines for fieldwork.
Footnotes
*2022 Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject.
^World Economic Forum, Future of jobs Report 2023
Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our list of sources.
Contact us
Got a question about our marine science courses? Our course advisers are available to speak to you about your study options and how we can help you further your career.
Domestic students
1800 693 888
Enquire online
International students
+61 3 9034 6205
Enquire online