Marine Science - what's it all about?

Introduction

Australia is an island continent with some 86% of its population living in coastal regions. The sea has great economic value to Australia with extensive economic activity in marine tourism, fisheries, marine transport and offshore petroleum industries. As well the coast provides a vast recreational industry that many Australians use on a regular basis and have a deep and abiding interest in. Marine Science is a fully integrated programme that provides the scientific framework to ensure the continued sustainable use of the coastal sea as a resource and addresses the vulnerability of these coastal waters to over- exploitation and pollution.

As a Marine Science student, you will gain specialised knowledge enabling you to understand the complex physical and biological interactions within the ocean, to gain an ability to assess the status of the marine environment, and to be able to predict the consequences of future disturbances to this environment.

You will be trained in the scientific study of the marine environment, with particular emphasis on the coastal zone.

Career Opportunities

As a Murdoch University graduate, you will have several career paths open to you including opportunities in municipal government, state and federal government departments, industry and consulting.

Australia's marine industries are poised for significant continued growth. Key employment opportunities are arising in fisheries, aquaculture, marine management associated with offshore oil and gas, tourism and recreation, marine biotechnology, marine environmental management and basic research in marine physical and biological systems.

Degrees Available

The Bachelor of Science in Marine Science can be completed in three years full-time study or over a longer period on a part-time basis. If you are selected for an honours degree, you will complete a fourth year of study. Some of the units in the degree programme are available for external study but the degree programme cannot be completed by external study.

Successful University Study

A unique feature of Murdoch University is that all first year students must complete a special Foundation Unit as a credited part of their degree studies. Foundation Units introduce students to the skills essential to successful university study.

You may choose from several Foundation Units, and while each reflects a particular theme and perspective on a subject of topical significance, all cover the relevant skills which will enable you to adjust to a new learning environment.

Details on Foundation Units can be obtained from the University Handbook.

Planning Your Degree

A special feature of studying at Murdoch is the flexibility allowed in planning your degree. Many students choose to combine studies from various areas in order to increase their general knowledge and skills base.

Employers look for people who are broadly educated, as well as competent in specific areas. Studying in two or more disciplines increases career prospects, extends your general level of education and allows you to pursue more than one interest.

Some examples of areas which may be combined with the Marine Sciences programme are: Biological Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Law, Economics, Asian Studies and many other arts and science programmes.

Study Abroad

Through exchange agreements with universities throughout the world, Murdoch offers its students the possibility of completing a semester of study abroad. Details of Study Abroad opportunities can be obtained from the International Office on (08) 9360 6368.

Academic Staff

You have the advantage of studying with some of the best qualified university staff in Australia.

Your learning experience will be enriched by working with academics who are leading researchers in their fields. Over the last five years the Marine and Freshwater Research Laboratory within the School of Environmental Science has undertaken extensive water analyses and consulted on water quality issues for the State Government and private companies. It boasts a range of analytical and diving equipment as well as several boats. Staff have active research programmes in marine ecology, marine biology, fluid mechanics, coastal meteorology, environmental biotechnology and seagrass growth and transplantation.

Murdoch staff view teaching as a crucially important aspect of their role as academics; they are genuinely interested in your welfare and intellectual development.

Recommended TEE Preparation

It is recommended that school leavers have completed Chemistry, Discrete Mathematics or Applicable Mathematics.

Sites worth a visit include:

Marine and Coastal Conservation Network

Marine and Freshwater Research Laboratory

Marine Management Research Group

National Oceans Office

CSIRO Marine Research

Australian Marine Sciences Association