About Marine Science
Marine scientists have the knowledge, skills and passion for understanding, protecting and promoting the health and wellbeing of marine environments and ecosystems. When you study Marine Science, Marine Biology and Aquaculture at JCU, you’ll have access to incredible learning environments. Develop in-depth knowledge and professional skills at JCU Orpheus Island Research Station, or on-site at various coral reef, island, seagrass and mangrove environments in the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef.
As you explore the geography, topography, biology, natural systems and balance of the ocean, you’ll build an expert understanding of how to protect and manage marine resources. Investigate alternative and innovative ways to establish and maintain sustainable fishing and aquaculture industries. You will explore oceanography through the use of cutting-edge technology, including sensors and radar, and gain essential skills for your marine science career.
What’s the difference between marine science and marine biology?
At JCU, you can study a Bachelor of Marine Science, a Bachelor of Science majoring in Marine Biology, or a Bachelor of Science majoring in Aquaculture. Marine Science comprises of Marine Physics, Chemistry, Geology and Biology under the ocean and sea. It includes all forms of general oceanography, including physical (tides, waves, etc.), chemical (sea salts, properties of water), and geological (ocean ridges, sea floors, hydrothermal vents), and engineering (underwater technology).
Marine Biology deals with flora and fauna of the ocean and other saltwater environments such as estuaries and wetlands. Marine biology generally refers to the anatomy, physiology, behaviour, diversity and evolution of marine organisms, and how they relate to each other (ecology). It is all about marine life. This includes species and genetic diversity, their origins, how they live, what they do, how they interact with each other and what ecological factors influence their populations, knowledge that indicates how to use marine populations sustainably.
Studying Marine Science and Marine Biology
As you study marine science or marine biology, you will examine issues of sustainability and how we can use science and technology to manage health marine ecosystems. Through placements and field trips, you will get first-hand experience interaction with the ocean and its animal life. You will also learn how to apply your knowledge of marine biology to conservation efforts. Explore the ocean floor, understanding how the structure and composition of sea beds, reefs and mangroves can differ, and how you can help to expand our knowledge of them.
Studying Marine Science or Marine Biology at JCU will empower you to take on the many challenges facing our oceans. You’ll learn how to manage human impacts on aquaculture and preserve dynamic marine environments. You will work alongside lecturers who are experts in their field and are passionate about addressing the challenges of our seas in innovative ways. Together with industry professionals, you will research solutions for the future and help make a lasting impact on the protection and study of marine ecosystems.
JCU Marine Science, Marine Biology and Aquaculture graduates pursue careers in a variety of roles, including marine conservation officers, marine planners, marine biologists, marine scientists, oceanographers, aquatic veterinarians, fisheries managers, educators, and environmental managers.
Explore your study options in Marine Science
Search Results
Gain a solid foundation for university study as you build academic skills, confidence and knowledge. Take classes relevant to your study goals and get a taste of university life in this qualification designed to help you meet the entry requirements of your desired degree. Enter university prepared for success after this one-year course.
Download Brochure- Townsville: February, July
- Cairns: February, July
- Online: February, July
Explore dynamic marine and coastal systems with Marine Science. Develop expertise in seabed mapping and fish assessment sonar, oceanographic sensors and other marine technologies. Gain valuable, hands-on experience through fieldwork at JCU’s Orpheus Island Research Station and on various coral reefs along the Great Barrier Reef.
Download Brochure- Townsville: February, July
Embrace the exciting world of science. Pair your scientific study with experiences like no other — explore environments like the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest or conduct research in state-of-the-art labs. Learn how to train an AI algorithm to identify flora and fauna species or dig into the earth’s history to find prehistoric remains. Graduate career-ready with advanced practical skills and a drive for discovery.
Download Brochure- Townsville: February, July
- Cairns: February, July
Develop outstanding discipline knowledge of marine biology and advance your skills in the areas most sought after by marine sector employers. Gain unrivalled hands-on experience in unique locations like the JCU Orpheus Island Research Station on the Great Barrier Reef. Work with emerging technologies for marine ecosystem monitoring, learn how to incorporate vital data analysis methods into your work and research, and collaborate with world-leading researchers in Coral Reef Science and Management
Download Brochure- Townsville: February, July
Advance your professional career in science with independent research or a focused industry project. Through your studies, you will expand your knowledge and understanding of the problems facing natural environments as well as their solutions, using the complex reef and terrestrial environments of the tropics as examples. You will also expand your practical, analytical and communication skills, and gain first-hand experience through your course work classes. You can concentrate your studies by
Download Brochure- Townsville: February, July
- Cairns: February, July
Advance your professional career in science with independent research or a focused industry project. Through your studies, you will expand your knowledge and understanding of the problems facing natural environments, and their solutions, using the complex reef and terrestrial environments of the tropics as examples. You will also expand your practical, analytical and communication skills, and gain first-hand experience through tailored professional internships or research projects that can lead
Download Brochure- Townsville: February, July
- Cairns: February, July
JCU Master of Philosophy graduates are internationally recognised as experts who discover valuable new knowledge in their fields. The skills you develop during your MPhil will enable you to extend yourself professionally within your existing sector, or to apply your research, critical thinking and problem-solving skills to new contexts. Graduates can also continue their independent research in a Doctor of Philosophy.
Download BrochureDevelop high level independent research skills while making an original contribution of knowledge.
Download Brochure