About Marine Science
Marine Science is the study of marine life and organisms in the ocean, marine sciences involve biological and physical sciences.
Mitigating and managing the marine environment to withstand constant and highly variable climate change is a strategic science and research priority of the Australian government. The study of Marine Science draws together relevant material to create a multi-disciplinary curriculum that provides you with in-depth knowledge in a range of marine science. This field is explicitly science-based but seeks to provide you with a broader range of capabilities and an interdisciplinary mindset to service the large and growing demand for coastal and marine experts in a range of fields.
Position Titles to Explore
Marine Biologist may be the most historically recognized title associated with the study of Marine Science. Research topics and areas of study may relate to behaviour, a particular species or an ecosystem, among other topics. Additional career paths for students in Marine Science can vary based on interests and skills. Working in research through different organizations and interest areas is common but, you will also find a need for those with a Marine Science background in areas such as:
Academia
Biotechnology Researcher
Environmental consulting
Environmental lobbying
Lawyers
Veterinarians
Focus Areas
While some components of Marine Science study are broad, there are many focus areas based on your own interests ranging from field-specific to policy-related. You could focus on:
animal physiology
aquaculture
conservation genetics
conservation technologies
deep-sea biology
ecology
energy
fisheries
geospatial ecology
marine protected areas
ocean governance
wildlife conservation
Skills required to work in the field
Skills needed may vary by specific job role or company needs but in general, these are the skills needed to work in the Marine Science field.
Science background including an understanding of scientific methods
Research
Critical thinking
Communication
Data review and analysis including related software
Collaboration/Ability to work with partners or teams
Career pathways
Become an expert in marine biology, climate change, coastal erosion, marine sustainability, aquaculture or land and coastal management, working on the frontline of issues of global importance. Graduates can be found in many settings and roles, including fisheries, parks and wildlife; environmental and coastal protection; marine and atmospheric research; electricity, gas, water and waste services; environment, urban planning and heritage agencies; and working as consultants for global organisations.
Universities in Australia offering Marine Science degrees and courses
University of Wollongong Australia
James Cook University
Griffith University
Deakin University
The University of Newcastle
The University of Western Australia
University of New South Wales
University of Tasmania
University of Technology Sydney
The University of Sydney
The University of Adelaide