Major overview
This course is one of 16 majors offered in the Bachelor of Science degree.
Marine environments around the world are increasingly vulnerable to climate change, coastal development and resources extraction. This course responds to the growing need to protect Australia’s coastal waters in particular, with an emphasis on marine biology, oceanographic sciences and resource management.
Marine Science is also offered as a Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) course.
You can extend your expertise and career opportunities by studying Marine Science as a double degree with Arts or Commerce. You can choose from various majors in the Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Commerce.
How to study this major
A major is a set of eight or more units you complete as part of a degree, including at least two in your final year. To study this major, you’ll need to apply for one of the degrees listed below.
Career outcomes
Around the world, the increased recognition of the impacts of climate change and the need for sustainable resource management is driving the need for scientists with expertise in protecting coastal and marine environments.
Careers
- Marine scientist
- Aquaculturalist
- Ecotoxicologist
- Environmental consultant
- Natural resource manager
- Fisheries scientist
- Natural resource consultant
- Marine pollution control consultant
Industries
- Coastal management
- Marine conservation
- Aquaculture
- Fisheries
- Ecotourism
Why study at Curtin?
Innovative technology
Use innovative research tools like the ‘piercam’ live-broadcasting underwater camera at Ningaloo Reef.
Work experience
Undertake a 10-day study tour along the Western Australian coast to learn about coastal infrastructure.
Industry links
Learn from researchers with projects in areas including coral reef ecology, fish ecology, marine pollution and seafloor mapping.
Hear from our students
"My Torres Strait Islander culture definitely drew me to study marine and environmental ecosystems at Curtin. I really enjoy the practical aspect of my course and the fieldwork opportunities, which are crucial to gaining professional connections. I completed a vacation program in the Pilbara, working alongside environmental advisors on dingo management, as well as turtle monitoring and rehabilitation of native flora and protected species. I’m also a member of the Curtin Divers club, and gaining my scuba ticket has increased my passion for marine life."
Brodie O'Breza
Bachelor of Science (Coastal and Marine Science)
Major structure
What you’ll learn
This course has been designed in collaboration with industry, to ensure that you develop in-demand scientific research skills. Throughout your studies, you will learn to think as a marine scientist, gaining knowledge from staff with research expertise in fish ecology, coral reef ecology, marine pollution, seafloor mapping, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture.
How this course will make you industry ready
- You’ll undertake extensive fieldwork as part of this major, including a 10-day study tour to visit coastal infrastructure and installations on the Western Australian coast.
- You’ll interact with professionals working in coastal zone management, such as WA's Department of Fisheries and Department of Environment and Conservation, as well as resource and tourism businesses.
- Curtin uses innovative teaching tools such as ‘piercam’ to bring the coastal environment into the classroom. Stationed on Ningaloo Reef, piercam is an underwater camera that broadcasts live vision via the web. A second camera will be installed on the North West Cape to track whale migration.
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information and course structure, visit our Handbook.
How to apply
This major is part of a degree. To apply, choose the degree you want to study and review its entry requirements. Then, prepare any required documents and submit your application before the deadline for your chosen intake.
After you receive and accept your offer, you can enrol in this double degree either at the start of your degree or later in your studies, depending on your course structure.
Choose your degree
To study this major, you'll need to apply one of the degrees listed below.Explore more
Find more resources to help you take the next step in your Curtin journey.