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Bachelor of Science (Marine Biology)

Campus North Terrace Campus

Degree Type Bachelor

Duration 3 years full-time or part-time equiv.

SATAC Code 324431

2012
ATAR 66.95

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  • Program Outline

    Marine Biology is all about the largest and most diverse ecosystem on the planet - the sea. It is strange that our planet is named ‘Earth’ when most of it is ‘sea’, and stranger that many graduates train in tropical seas when the bulk of jobs are in temperate (Antarctic to sub-tropical) seas. Most of Australia’s population lives on temperate coasts. For this reason we prepare graduates for work on these coasts by demonstrating the problems and needs facing marine industry and conservation. 

    The program provides access to staff with national and international acclaim for research excellence, with a strong emphasis on giving students field experience. Students use the same equipment that is used in pioneering research across the northern and southern hemispheres. 

    This program prepares students for careers in marine biology via training in use of coherent, logical procedures and rigorous experimental planning for practical work in the field and laboratory. There is demand for people with these skills in temperate marine biology.

     

  • Program Structure
    The first year involves core studies in biology, geology and statistics. In subsequent years, students study ecological and evolutionary biology courses, which include marine biology components, as well as coastal management and specialised research methodology. At third year, there are three specific marine courses that cover the theoretical, practical and fieldwork aspects of marine biology.
  • Assessment

    Assignments, exams, practical work, field trip reports

  • Related Programs
  • Admission and Fee Information

    Choose your applicant type to view the relevant admissions information for this program.
    I am a:

    Domestic applicants

    Not a domestic applicant?

    SATAC Code 324431
    2012 CSP ATAR 66.95
    Adelaide Approved Score 75
    2012 CSP IB 24
    Annual tuition fees
    Commonwealth-supported place: $8,250
    Mid-year entry? Subject to availability
    Deferment? Yes - 2 year
    Enquiries University Contact Centre
    Selection Criteria
    Year 12 applicants
    You must not have completed more than 2 years full time equivalent university study (48 units). You compete for a place with your Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR).
    Assumed Knowledge
    SACE Stage 2 Chemistry, Mathematical Studies

    Alternative entry pathways
    • Higher Education applicants
      You must have completed at least half a year full time equivalent university study. A Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated for each separate program you have undertaken (apart from some double degree programs where the GPA is combined). You compete on the basis of your best GPA.
    • VET applicants
      You must have completed an AQF Certificate IV or above from a Registered Training Organisation. Your application will be ranked according to the level of the award.
    • Special Entry applicants
      You must be 18 years or over before February 1st of the year that you will be studying. If you have studied a higher education program within the last two years, you must not have studied more than 2 years full-time equivalent in that program and you must not hold a completed higher education level award. If you meet this criteria, you will be ranked according to your result in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT). Personal Competencies (PC) and Employment Experience (EE) statements may also contribute to your rank. If you submit a PC or EE statement, and one of these ranks higher than your STAT score, then the highest ranking statement will contribute 50% to your overall rank and the STAT will contribute the remaining 50%. If you do not submit a PC or EE statement, or if the statements have a lower rank than the STAT, then you will compete for a place on the basis of your STAT result only. Indigenous applicants may be eligible for entry through the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Access Scheme. See Wilto Yerlo for further information.
    • Without formal qualifications?
      You may be eligible for our special access schemes.
    • Other Entry Pathways
    How to Apply
    SATAC Code: 324431

    International applicants

    Not an international applicant?

    International ATAR 80
    IB 27
    IELTS Overall 6 [more info]
    Annual tuition fees International student place: $26,750
    Mid-year entry? Yes
    CRICOS 057802F
    Enquiries University Contact Centre
    Selection Criteria
    Assumed Knowledge
    Chemistry and Mathematics is desirable
    Equivalent Scores
    International ATAR 80
    IB 27
    IELTS
    Overall
    Reading
    Listening
    Speaking
    Writing
    6
    5.5
    5.5
    6
    6
    A-Level 9
    UEC [Malaysia] 15
    SAT [US] 1770
    OSSD OAC [Canadian Pre-U] 75
    Eynesbury Foundation Program 380
    Bradford Foundation Program 77
    How to Apply

    International applicants applying with Australian year 12 results

    Not an international applicant applying with Australian year 12 results?

    International ATAR 80
    Annual tuition fees International student place: $26,750
    Mid-year entry? Yes
    Enquiries University Contact Centre
    Selection Criteria
    Assumed Knowledge
    SACE Stage 2 Chemistry, Mathematical Studies
  • Study Plans

    The study plans given are examples of pathways through this degree for students that commenced their program in 2013 (refer to the program rules). Students that commenced in previous years should refer to the tabs above(referring to years) or consult their Faculty for advice.

    Level I

    Semester 1 (core courses)

    together with an additional 6 units of Level I courses chosen from courses offered by the Faculty of Sciences. A maximum of 3 units may be taken from courses offered by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Faculty of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, and the School of Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Urban Design.

    Semester 2 (core courses)

    together with an additional 3 units of Level I courses chosen from courses offered by the Faculty of Sciences. A maximum of 3 units may be taken from courses offered by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Faculty of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, and the School of Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Urban Design.

    *STATS 1004: Statistical Practice I (Life Sciences) may be taken in Semester 1 or 2.
    Level II

    Semester 1 (core courses)

    Semester 2 (core courses)

    Plus passes in additional Level II courses to the value of 12 units chosen from:

    # These courses are offered in alternate years

    or additional courses selected in consultation with the Program Coordinator and in accordance with Academic Program Rules 4.5.3 for the degree of Bachelor of Science.
    Level III

    Semester 1

    Semester 2

    Passes in additional Level III courses to the value of 9 units, chosen from:

    or

    Level III science electives selected in consultation with Program Coordinator

    * Summer semester

    # These courses offered in alternate years
  • Career Opportunities

    Employment opportunities exist for graduates in:

    • Conservation groups
    • Consultancy firms
    • Councils
    • Environmental protection agencies
    • State governments
    • University research laboratories
    • Water authorities 

    Job requirements may include:

    • Collecting data and resources by SCUBA and boats
    • Managing fisheries and coastal planning
    • Monitoring climate change and water quality
    • Policy formation and creating marine protected areas

    Potential careers

    Lecturer, Life Scientist, Consultant, Personal / Research Officer (Local MP), Policy Adviser, Project Officer, Environmental Project Officer, Research Assistant, Research Associates, Resource Management, Science Educators, Political Adviser, Environmental Management, Scientific Officer, Government Officer, Biodiversity Assessment, Resource Manager, Environmental Remediation Officer, Environmental Scientist, Aquaculture, Science Communicators, Research Scientist, ...

  • Graduate Attributes

    Students are encouraged to take responsibility for developing the following attributes:

    • Knowledge and understanding of the content and techniques of a chosen discipline at advanced levels that are internationally recognised.
    • The ability to locate, analyse, evaluate and synthesise information from a wide variety of sources in a planned and timely manner.
    • An ability to apply effective, creative and innovative solutions, both independently and cooperatively, to current and future problems.
    • Skills of a high order in interpersonal understanding, teamwork and communication.
    • A proficiency in the appropriate use of contemporary technologies.
    • A commitment to continuous learning and the capacity to maintain intellectual curiosity throughout life.
    • A commitment to the highest standards of professional endeavour and the ability to take a leadership role in the community.
    • An awareness of ethical, social and cultural issues and their importance in the exercise of professional skills and responsibilities.
  • Program Rules
  • Further Information

    Please direct enquiries to the University Contact Centre
    Phone: +61 8 8313 7335 (toll free 1800 061 459)

    The annual Open Day and Information Night events provide an excellent opportunity to see our campus, meet with academics, and discuss your study options.

  • Useful Links

The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.

Last updated: Wednesday, 27 Feb 2013

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Student Profile

“There are also a lot of opportunities throughout the degree to participate in different types of fieldwork which is a great way to gain experience and broaden your career opportunities.”

Melita De Vries

Melita studied Environmental Biology and Marine Ecology during her degree and really enjoyed the broad range of subjects offered and the overall picture of difference ecological systems this provided.

"The camps and fieldwork components of the degree were a lot of fun and they provide an opportunity to get to know other students as well as giving you first hand experience of what research in the marine ecology field is all about."

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