Bachelor of Marine Science

Queensland's #1 university for marine and ocean engineering. (ShanghaiRanking's Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025) Turn your passion for the ocean into a career with real impact. Study where the ocean meets the classroom at our Gold Coast campus and combine cutting-edge research with hands-on fieldwork in some of Australia's most iconic marine environments. With direct access to Moreton Bay, Gold Coast waterways and Heron Island, you'll gain practical experience in a living laboratory - building the skills and networks that open doors in marine science careers worldwide. Through a broad, interdisciplinary curriculum spanning marine biology, chemistry and physical sciences, you'll graduate as a well-rounded marine science professional ready to meet industry needs. With strong industry links and opportunities to join research projects and sustainability initiatives, you'll graduate with confidence, experience and professional connections. Highlights of studying the Bachelor of Marine Science Tackle critical ocean challenges such as climate change, pollution and sustainable fisheries management, supporting healthy marine ecosystems and industries. Small cohorts, approachable lecturers and a supportive learning community ensure you're guided every step of the way. Develop practical skills through hands-on experience with industry-relevant tools and approaches, including GIS, ecological modelling, environmental economics and data analysis. Gain valuable professional experience through marine industry placement in areas such as fisheries, aquaculture, marine conservation, coastal management or coastal engineering. Build a strong science foundation in your first year before customising your studies and specialising in your area of passion in second and third year, with the flexibility to switch majors. Participate in extensive fieldwork at unforgettable locations including Heron Island, Stradbroke Island, Moreton Bay and Gold Coast waterways such as Tallebudgera Creek, Burleigh Headlands, Hastings Point and the Broadwater. Lead the way in marine science Environmental scientists are in high demand across every sector, and this degree opens pathways well beyond marine science alone. You'll develop versatile, future-focused skills valued globally, from marine fieldwork and ecological monitoring to data analysis and applied research. Studying at Griffith's Gold Coast campus - surrounded by beaches, wetlands and diverse coastal systems - gives you immediate access to real-world learning opportunities guided by leading researchers and educators. Our marine science program is highly regarded, with strong industry recognition and collaborations that enhance your employability. Through research projects, volunteering and student societies, you'll build professional networks that support your career long after graduation. Honours From the end of your third year, eligible students can apply for an honours program and complete an honours research project. You'll apply your skills in real marine environments through unique experiences that strengthen pathways into research and advanced marine science careers. Majors Marine and coastal conservation: Learn how to understand and protect vulnerable ocean and shoreline ecosystems. You'll study the dynamics of sandy beaches, wetlands, coral reefs and other key habitats, particularly those along Australia's eastern coast. You'll explore the impacts of pollution, climate change and human development while gaining practical skills in ecosystem modelling, GIS mapping, environmental monitoring and resource management. With practical experience through fieldwork and lab activities, you'll be prepared for careers in marine conservation, coastal planning, environmental policy or ecosystem restoration. If you're passionate about sustaining our oceans for future generations, this major offers the knowledge and tools to make a real difference. Marine chemistry and biotechnology: Explore the chemical makeup of marine environments and the innovative use of marine organisms in science, industry and conservation. Study topics like aquatic chemistry, environmental pollutants, marine biodiscovery and the advanced analytical techniques used to assess ecosystem health and unlock bioactive compounds from the ocean. Gain practical skills through fieldwork and lab-based training in spectroscopy, ecotoxicology, water quality testing and chemical analysis. You'll be prepared for roles in environmental monitoring, pharmaceuticals, marine biotechnology or coastal water management. Marine ecology: Explore the intricate relationships between marine organisms and their environments, from coastal wetlands to coral reefs and open oceans. You'll examine topics like estuarine dynamics, reef biodiversity, marine megafauna and ecological monitoring, alongside the impacts of pollution, habitat loss and climate change. Combine fieldwork, lab experience, and ecological theory to develop skills in research, species monitoring and conservation strategy. You'll gain firsthand experience in coastal and offshore ecosystems-including humpback whale surveys-and study how human and environmental factors shape marine systems. Ideal for those passionate about protecting marine life, this major opens pathways into research, conservation, marine park management and ecological consultancy. Attendance information The Bachelor of Marine Science is offered as a full time three year degree, in an on-campus mode. You can also study this degree part-time, but note that courses are offered in day-time hours in on-campus mode. If you are an International student on a student visa, you must ensure that you enrol in a way that will allow you to complete your enrolment within the expected program duration as stated on your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). The recommended study load for international student in each compulsory trimester is 40CP. Managing Study Interruptions Leave of Absence Taking a leave of absence from this program is permitted, subject to conditions outlined in the Enrolment Procedure . Student story Diego Gloria Bachelor of Marine Science "The Gold Coast in particular has the perfect balance of city and nature. As a marine science student, being so close to the water presents so many opportunities for professional development through hands-on volunteer and field work. And who doesn't like a day on the beach?" Pathways to further study Graduates of the Bachelor of Marine Science may be eligible to apply for admission to the Bachelor of Science (Honours) (2125) .