The need to sustain Australia's marine environment is more important than ever as we face an uncertain future driven by climate change, increasing resource extraction and coastal development. A strong scientific understanding of the complexities of these sensitive ecosystems is developed alongside the skills to apply relevant practical and technological tools toward their sustainable management.

In this major you will study Marine Science with an emphasis on marine biology, oceanographic sciences and resource management. Fields of study include biology, sustainable aquaculture, environmental impact assessment, marine taxonomy/biodiversity, marine ecology, geomorphology and the physical environment of the coastal zone. The curriculum focuses on Australian marine ecosystems, however, international case studies are incorporated. This degree is an opportunity to meet the need for increased research into coastal environment while managing the sustainability of the current and future anthropogenic activities within marine and coastal systems.

This major is part of the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours), a course designed for high performing students to pursue their interest in Science through a core of research, leadership and entrepreneurship. It provides a flexible and personalised approach to studying Marine Science with students able to explore the field through for-credit immersive research experiences, industry placement and/or interdisciplinary team-based projects. The major culminates in a capstone experience in which students will have the opportunity to pursue Marine Science projects that may be based anywhere from pure research right through to translational (entrepreneurial) science.

The Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) provides opportunities through second and third year to undertake internal and external internships and immersive work experience, sourced by the student, which can be used for course credit.

Students in this course gain a practical experience through a range of field-based experiences in marine environments. Work-based learning is ensured through the requirement to engage in immersive industry and/or research experience.

Student experience

The Curtin Coastal and Marine Science course has been designed with industry input to deliver a learning experience focused on developing scientific and marine research skills. The course is delivered by staff actively researching a variety of fields including fish ecology, coral reef ecology, marine pollution, coastal geomorphology, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. The result is a dynamic and engaging learning environment in which teaching is informed by current research. Our students are challenged to think as marine scientists, developing their initiative and intellectual curiosity to help understand and protect the marine environment.

This major sits within the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) degree. To apply for this major, you will apply for the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours).

Why study

• Undertake extensive fieldwork including a final year 7 day project -based field trip to WA’s northwest.
• Network with researchers active in a wide range of marine science specialities including geomorphology, marine ecology, ecotoxicology and aquaculture.
• Graduates from this major are sought in numerous industries and organisations due to their specialist science training, critical thinking skills and problem solving abilities.
• The majors in Curtin’s Advanced Science (Honours) are unique in Western Australia in their combination of discipline focus, capacity to specialise within that discipline or pursue other interests, and research and work experience within the course. You will have a distinctive set of skills and experience that lay the foundation for a career as a scientist able to work across the range of ‘science’ job: from pure research to translational and entrepreneurial science.

Professional recognition

Graduates from this major will be eligible to apply for membership of the Australian Marine Science Association, the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, and the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand.

Graduates will be ideally placed to pursue a career in Marine Science research and be equipped with skills aligned to the needs of a number of government agencies:

• Department of Fisheries
• Department of Environment and Conservation
• Office of the Environmental Protection Authority
• Department of Transport
• Water Corporation.

The course will also prepare students for employment as Environmental Officers in Regional Development Commissions and local governments, particularly those confronted with coastal management issues associated with meeting their development needs.

Graduates will be suited to employment within the private sector, including companies involved with:

• coastal and marine resource extraction
• environmental consultancies
• coastal tourism enterprises
• commercial and recreational fishing industries.