Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Marine Science

Course Description

Australia is surrounded by three oceans with 85% of our population living near the coast. With growing evidence that increasing human populations and rising global temperatures are impacting marine ecosystems, how we assess and manage the use of our oceans and their resources has become crucial.

Benefit from our multi-disciplinary approach and study a range of subjects including oceanography, atmospheric science, marine biology, marine ecology and marine management.  In the process, you’ll learn how to assess the state of the marine environment, investigate climate change adaptation and be trained in management with an emphasis on coastal ecosystems.

You’ll develop a wide range of skills including problem solving, laboratory and research methods, advanced field procedures, numerical and spatial analysis techniques and report writing, which are highly sought after by employers in this field.  

6 reasons to study Marine Science at Murdoch

• Contribute to the future of our marine industries, which add more than $50 billion each year to the “blue economy”.
• Develop a scientific understanding of marine ecosystems that is needed to ensure the sustainable use of marine resources.
• Prepare to tackle major global challenges, including ocean health and conservation of marine biodiversity, with the scientific background required to guide management decisions.
• Learn how modern technology has revolutionised oceanography, and how increased data availability enables advanced analysis for better understanding of the world’s oceans.
• Have the opportunity to study speciality minors such as Fisheries Science that will give you specific industry knowledge.
• Gain valuable field experience in marine, coastal and estuarine environments with camps and trips along the coast of Western Australia, and have opportunities to get involved in research, industry and community projects while you study.

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:

• Conservation and Wildlife Biology
• Environmental Management and Sustainability
• Environmental Science
• Genetics and Molecular Biology
• Mathematics and Statistics.

Your future career

When you graduate, you will be qualified to work as a scientist in marine environmental management, marine industries, marine biodiversity conservation, marine-based tourism and marine ecology.

Careers could include:

• Coastal Manager
• Fisheries Officer
• Marine Environmental Consultant
• Biological Oceanographer
• Marine Park Ranger
• Researcher (with further study).

You can find jobs in government departments responsible for marine and coastal policy, planning and management, marine environmental consultancy companies, industry sectors such as oil and gas, fisheries, aquaculture, ports and tourism, and marine research institutions.