Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Marine Biology

Course Description

It is estimated that up to 80% of all life on earth exists in the ocean – it could be even more considering less than 10% of the ocean has been explored by humans.

Forget swimming with dolphins and looking at coral – although there’s every chance you’ll get to do that at some point in your degree – a major in Marine Biology will ensure you develop a detailed understanding of the biota and ecological processes of marine environments. Gain an appreciation of the diversity of marine life, the interactions between species and biota, and the physical environment.

With a strong emphasis on fundamental biological principles and how these underpin successful marine management, you’ll cover topics including fish, wildlife populations and ecology, aquaculture and human impacts, through extensive field work and practical learning.

6 reasons to study Marine Biology at Murdoch

• Every unit you study will have laboratory sessions or fieldwork – our majors are much more hands-on than other courses in WA, so you’ll be job ready when you graduate.
• You’ll put theory into context on local and global scales with real-life examples and a holistic approach to teaching.
• Learn in industry standard laboratories, like the marine and freshwater research laboratory, equipped with world class research instruments.
• Benefit from immersive teaching throughout the course, with most units providing extensive hands-on laboratory or field experience, something you won’t experience in other WA courses.
• Have the opportunity to participate in several field camps, including a 5-day research camp to Point Peron in your third year.
• Head to Coral Bay for a 10 day field camp if you choose to study optional third year unit, Tropical Marine Biology.

Customise your course

Customise your course with a second major or combined degree. Adding a second major or combined degree enhances your career prospects and allows you to specialise in two areas of study. Here are some combinations we recommend:

• Biological Sciences
• Conservation and Wildlife Biology
• Environmental Management and Sustainability
• Environmental Science
• Marine Science.

Your future career

A Marine Biology major will create opportunities in a range of environmental related fields, across industries.

Careers could include:

• Aquatic Ecologist
• Marine Policy and Planning Officer
• Fisheries Biologist
• Coastal Community Officer
• Marine Biologist in marine-based tourism.

You will find jobs in marine policy and planning in government, marine and coastal environmental groups and consultancies, industry sectors such as aquaculture, fisheries and marine-based tourism and University and Government-funded marine research institutions.