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Marine science

Discipline

Study marine science and make a real-world impact. Immerse yourself in prime coastal locations, access unique marine ecosystems and learn in state-of-the-art facilities.

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)

A Deakin undergraduate course is the foundation of your future career, usually completed in two to four years. Duration varies based on degree type, enrolment pattern and any credit received from recognition of prior learning.

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.

Explore our marine facilities

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 9918 9188
Enquire online