Fast Facts
Location
Commencing
- Townsville: February, July
Fees
$7,470.00+
+estimated annual Commonwealth Supported Fee for a full-time study load
Plus Student Services and Amenities fee
Fee deferral and scholarships available if eligible
Duration
3 years full-time
or part-time equivalent
Entry Requirements
ATAR 78.1
Assumed Knowledge
English (Units 3/4,C), Mathematical Methods (Units 3/4,C), Chemistry (Units 3/4,C).
Recommended Knowledge
One of Biology, Earth and Environmental Science, Geography, Marine Science, Specialist Maths or Physics (Units 3/4,C)
QTAC Codes
- 316251
Course detail
Undertake research at the JCU Orpheus Island Research Station, or on-site at various coral reef, island, seagrass and mangrove environments visited when completing this degree. Develop a deep understanding of marine systems while studying in JCU's advanced research aquariums and laboratories. Learn how to best manage human impacts and preserve dynamic marine and coastal environments.
Develop high-level skills in evolving technologies that are providing solutions to previously unsolvable problems. Build your capabilities in the use of seabed mapping and fish assessment sonar, oceanographic sensors, and a range of technologies used for gathering data above and below the waves.
Build networks with international students who study this degree, and with the concentration of marine scientists and managers located in north Queensland. Opportunities may also exist to undertake an exchange program with an international university.
About JCU's Bachelor of Marine Science
Pursue your passion for the ocean and marine science with a JCU Bachelor of Marine Science - a comprehensive science degree studying the elements of the ocean with a strong focus on first-hand experiences. Access diverse learning environments including Orpheus Island on the Great Barrier Reef.
A Marine Science School with World-Class Teaching and Learning
The challenges facing our oceans require bold minds and creative solutions. Marine science students are trained to work with developing technologies. JCU offers a world-class education in Marine Science. Explore oceanography like never before with our cutting-edge technology, including sensors and radar.
JCU’s marine science degree has a focus on the sustainability of the oceans and coasts and is ideal for students interested in developing solid foundations in the biological, physical and chemical sciences relevant to coastal and ocean systems. Specialist marine science degrees suit those interested in sustainably managing healthy marine ecosystems.
Study Marine Science in the Most Beautiful Locations on Earth
Take advantage of JCU’s real-world practical experience. Study your marine science bachelor degree on-site at coral reefs, islands, mangroves, and seagrass beds including the Great Barrier Reef National Park. Access JCU’s research vessels and the JCU Orpheus Island Research Station and Aquarium Complex.
Learn from academics who are experts in their field and are passionate about addressing the challenges of our seas. Together with industry professionals, you will research solutions for the future and be part of a team solving problems that challenge scientists and managers today.
Understand how to collect data, map the seabeds, assess the health of marine life populations, look for underwater deposits, and monitor and track everything under the waves. Your research will take you to coral reefs, research ships and seagrass beds.
A Marine Science University with Great Learning Resources
Master the fundamentals, such as understanding biological processes, the chemistry of the ocean, coastal and marine geomorphology and fisheries science. Then, start planning field investigations and learn how to collect and analyse the data you find. Access the newest technologies and the most cutting-edge techniques to collate the data you need.
Learn how to draw logical conclusions from what you know and devise workable solutions to problems. Gain the skills to understand how the intricate ocean systems work together so you can manage them effectively. You will also master practical skills in working safely in diverse marine environments.
Marine Science at JCU - The Way to a Healthier Future for Our Oceans
JCU’s bachelor program in marine science offers students hands-on opportunities and invaluable experience that will help them succeed in the workforce.
View the handbook for a detailed overview of core subjects and available options.
Inherent requirements
Inherent requirements are the identified abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours that must be demonstrated, during the learning experience, to successfully complete a course. These abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours preserve the academic integrity of the University’s learning, assessment,and accreditation processes, and where applicable, meet the standards of a profession. For more information please review the inherent requirements for the Bachelor of Marine Science.
Honours
High achieving Bachelor of Marine Science students can continue their studies through the Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree. This course consists of extra study and the development of a personal research project and thesis. An Honours degree is usually essential for entry to research higher degrees. Refer to the Bachelor of Science (Honours) Handbook for eligibility information.
JCU Marine Science lecturers are deeply respected in their field and have contributed to ground-breaking research.
Graduates can pursue a career in a diverse range of areas including fisheries science and management, marine resource management and conservation, as well as coastal and marine geoscience, oceanography, and marine technology.
JCU Marine Science graduates find employment with both government and private industry, including engineering companies, in Australia and overseas. You could work as a marine conservation officer, a marine planner, or as an oceanographer. Alternatively, you could find employment as an aquatic veterinarian, a fisheries manager, a marine educator, or a communications and environmental manager. Many students progress onto postgraduate study.
Entry score threshold
These are the lowest adjusted scores we made an offer to in Semester 1, 2022. Entry scores are based on the most recent Semester 1 intake and are updated in June each year. Meeting the threshold doesn't guarantee admission.
ATAR/Selection Rank: 78.10
Entry score range
This table shows the range of entry scores for recent secondary students offered a place in the Bachelor of Marine Science for Semester 1, 2022. The table includes offers deferred to Semester 1, 2022 which may have been assessed using the entry score threshold of an earlier year.
JCU Townsville
| Without adjustments | With adjustments* | |
|---|---|---|
Highest | 99.95 | 99.95 |
Median | 88.00 | 90.2 |
Lowest | 72.25 | 78.25 |
90.2Notes:
<5 – indicates less than 5 OP/ATAR-based offers made.
* Refer to Adjustment Factors
Find out more about who you might study with by viewing this course’s student profile.
Adjustment factors
James Cook University applies bonus ranks under the Regional Preference Scheme and QTAC’s Educational Access Scheme (EAS). Learn more about JCU’s adjustment factors.
Handbook year | Information valid for students commencing in 2023 |
Course code | 50110M |
Course type | Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) |
Owner | Academy |
| College | Science and Engineering |
Award Requirements
Admission Requirements
Course pre-requisites | Assumed Knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C); Mathematical Methods (Units 3/4,C); Chemistry (Units 3/4,C); or equivalent Recommended: at least one of Biology, Earth and Environmental Science, Geography, Marine Science, Specialist Maths or Physics (Units 3/4,C); or equivalent |
Minimum English language proficiency requirements | Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 1 – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy. |
| Additional course requirements | Applicants who have not completed high school intermediate level Mathematics B (or equivalent) must select MA1020: Preparatory Mathematics as part of their study plan to successfully complete the Bachelor of Marine Science. Applicants who have not completed high school Chemistry (or equivalent) must select CH1020: Preparatory Chemistry as part of their study plan to successfully complete the Bachelor of Marine Science. Students should undertake the above subject/s in intensive mode where available and be aware that restrictions may apply to electives if they wish to complete in the normal three (3) year time frame. These subjects typically start earlier than the standard course commencement date. Contact JCU on 1800 246 446 for more information. This course involves mandatory field work and any costs associated with that field work will be at the student’s expense. |
Academic Requirements for Course Completion
Credit points | 72 credit points as per course structure |
Additional course rules | Must complete a minimum of 18 credit points of Level 3 subjects. |
Course learning outcomes | JCU graduates are committed to lifelong learning, intellectual development, and to the display of exemplary personal, professional and ethical standards. They have a sense of their place in the tropics and are charged with professional, community, and environmental responsibility. JCU graduates appreciate the need to embrace and be acquainted with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples of Australia. They are committed to reconciliation, diversity and sustainability. They exhibit a willingness to lead and to contribute to the intellectual, environmental, cultural, economic and social challenges of regional, national, and international communities of the tropics. Graduates of the Bachelor of Marine Science at James Cook University will be able to:
|
Inherent Requirements
Inherent Requirements | Inherent requirements are the identified abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours that must be demonstrated, during the learning experience, to successfully complete a course. These abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours preserve the academic integrity of the University's learning, assessment, and accreditation processes, and where applicable, meet the standards of a profession. For more information please visit: Bachelor of Marine Science. |
Reasonable adjustments | All JCU students have the opportunity to demonstrate, with reasonable adjustments where applicable, the inherent requirements for their course. For more information please visit: Student Disability Policy and Procedure. |
Course Structure
CORE SUBJECTS
Level 1
BS1007:03 Introduction to Biodiversity
CH1001:03 Chemistry: A Central Science
EA1110:03 Evolution of the Earth
MA1000:03 Mathematical Foundations
MB1110:03 Introductory Marine Science
SC1102:03 Modelling Natural Systems or SC1109:03 Modelling Natural Systems - Advanced
Level 2
SC2202:03 Quantitative Methods in Science or SC2209:03 Quantitative Methods in Science-Advanced
EV2502:03 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
PH2006:03 Marine Physics or PH2009:03 Advanced Marine Physics
CH2042:03 Marine Chemistry and Chemical Ecology
MB2050:03 Functional Biology of Marine Organisms
Level 3
MB3050:03 Biological Oceanography
EV3406:03 Coral Reef Geomorphology
EA3110:03 Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
EA3640:03 Advanced Environmental and Marine Geoscience Technologies and Applications
MB3270:03 Coastal, Estuarine and Mangrove Ecosystems
SC3010:03 Sensors and Sensing for Scientists
EV3401:03 Coastal and Catchment Geomorphology
OPTIONS
MA1020:03 Preparatory Mathematics or any Level 1, 2 or 3 science subjects*
CH1020:03 Preparatory Chemistry or any Level 1, 2 or 3 science subjects**
*Applicants who have not completed high school intermediate level Mathematics B (or equivalent) must select MA1020 Preparatory Mathematics as part of their study plan to be able to successfully complete the Bachelor of Marine Science.
**Applicants who have not completed high school Chemistry (or equivalent) must select CH1020 Preparatory Chemistry as part of their study plan to successfully complete the Bachelor of Marine Science
PLUS
Select 6 credit points of any undergraduate subjects (List 1 below provides streams guidance information)
PLUS
Select 6 credit points of any Level 2 or 3 subjects (List 1 below provides streams guidance information)
Lists of subjects grouped according to potential career aspirations and interests can be viewed in List 1 below or a more general list can be accessed here.
List 1
Streams
- Chemistry
- Earth Science
- Environmental Science
- Fisheries
- Marine Biology
- Maths
- Physics
Chemistry
CH1002:03 Chemistry: Principles and Applications
CH2310:03 Syntheses and Mechanism in Organic Chemistry
CH2103:03 Analytical Chemistry
CH3041:03 Environmental Chemistry
Earth Science
EA2404:03 From Icehouse to Greenhouse
EA2900:03 Introductory Field Geology
EA3800:03 Earth and Environmental Geochemistry
EA3210:03 Structural Geology Tectonics or EA3650:03 Sedimentary Environments and Energy Resources
Environmental Science
EV1005:03 Environmental Processes & Global Change
EV2401:03 Australian Landscape Processes and Evolution
EV3502:03 Advanced Geographic Information Systems
EV3506:03 Remote Sensing
Fisheries
BS2460:03 Fundamentals of Ecology
MB2080:03 Invertebrate Biology
MB3014:03 Managing Tropical Fisheries
MB3150:03 Fisheries Science
Marine Biology
Select 4 subjects from:
BS2460:03 Fundamentals of Ecology
MB2070:03 Marine Biogeography
MB2080:03 Invertebrate Biology
MB3160:03 Evolution and Ecology of Reef Fishes
MB3190:03 Coral Reef Ecology
Maths
MA1003:03 Mathematical Techniques
Plus select 3 subjects from:
MA2000:03 Mathematics for Scientists and Engineers
MA2210:03 Linear Algebra
MA2405:03 Advanced Statistical Modelling
CP2404:03 Database Modelling
MA3405:03 Statistical Data Mining for Big Data
Physics
PH1005:03 Advanced Stream Physics 1
PH3006:03 Oceanography and Meteorology
Plus select 2 subjects from:
PH2002:03 Classical Mechanics and Quantum Physics 1
PH2019:03 Introduction to Electromagnetism Optics and Early Quantum
PH2240:03 Atomic and Nuclear Physics
Location
COURSE AVAILABLE AT | NOTES |
JCU Townsville |
Candidature
Expected time to complete | 3 years full-time or equivalent part-time |
Maximum time to complete | 9 years |
Maximum leave of absence | 3 years |
Progression
Course progression requisites | Must complete 18 credit points of Level 1 and 2 science subjects before attempting any Level 3 science subjects. |
Course includes mandatory professional placement(s) | No |
Course includes mandatory fieldwork | Yes |
Special assessment requirements | Nil |
Accreditation requirements | Nil |
Supplementary exam for final subject | Not applicable |
Credit
Eligibility | Students may apply for credit transfer for previous tertiary study in accordance with the Credit Transfer Procedure. |
Maximum allowed | 48 credit points |
Currency | Credit will be granted only for studies completed in the 10 years prior to the commencement of this course. |
Expiry | Credit gained for any subject shall be cancelled 19 years after the date of the examination upon which the credit is based if, by then, the student has not completed this course. |
Other restrictions | A maximum of 6 credit points of credit may be granted at level 3. Credit will not be granted for CH1020, MA1020 or PH1001. |
Award Details
Award title | BACHELOR OF MARINE SCIENCE |
Approved abbreviation | BMarSc |
Inclusion of majors on testamur | Not applicable - this course does not have majors |
Exit with lesser award | Students who have completed 24 credit points of their course award requirements, and withdraw from or fail to meet the requirements for progression in the later years, may be eligible for the award of Diploma of Tertiary Studies. |
Course articulation | Not applicable |
Special awards | Students may receive an Award of Recognition in accordance with the Recognition of Academic Excellence Procedure |
Honours
Honours availability | Honours is available as a separate graduate entry course. |
Eligibility | Students must satisfy the college requirements relating to the standard of academic achievement necessary to proceed to the honours degree. |
Estimated annual Commonwealth Supported fee: $AUD7,470.00
A Student Services and Amenities fee is payable per subject up to a maximum amount per year.
A variety of Scholarships are available to suit different student types.
An ATAR is the score required for entry into most undergraduate courses. If you are not a Year 12 school leaver or do not have an ATAR, you can be assigned an equivalent score. Scores are calculated from previous study that you might have completed, either secondary, tertiary or vocational, or previous paid employment experience.
JCU offers pathway courses to help you move into a degree. Pathway courses provide you with an individualised study plan and specialised support as you transition to university.
Contact us to find out more.
Note the course QTAC code for the location you've chosen. You'll need to enter it as part of your QTAC application.
Application dates vary between courses, whether they're delivered in semester, trimester or carousel study modes. View our Application due dates page for more information.
ATAR score is indicative only. Entry scores will be finalised in the major offer round.
Real stories
-
Student
Marissa Hutchings
Bachelor of Marine Science
There is no doubt that JCU is the world’s best place to study marine science. The array of classes is just phenomenal, the field work opportunities are endless and the enthusiasm of all the lecturers is truly inspiring. With so much research going on, there are lots of opportunities for volunteering and networking.
-
Alumni
Astrid Mackegård
Bachelor of Marine Science
The field trips to Orpheus Island are plenty and were big highlights of my degree. Not only the hands-on experience such as measuring coral microatolls, but also surveying reef flats and making strong connections with lecturers, tutors, and fellow students.
-
Lecturer
Associate Professor Scott Smithers
Bachelor of Marine Science
The reasons that brought me to JCU, and have kept me here, are the concentration of world-class expertise in a range of disciplines relevant to marine science, and it is these same attributes, and the global reputation that follows, that make JCU an excellent choice for students considering study in this field.
-
Employer
Dr. Lyndon Llewellyn
Australian Institute of Marine Science
JCU students are of a like mind to us. They want to make the world a better place and they bring that desire into their work with us. They are practical, passionate and willing to tackle challenging problems through science.