James Cook University
Bachelor of Science (Marine Biology)
Nationally Recognised Higher EducationWhen you study marine biology in the Bachelor of Science at JCU, you will learn from world-leaders in marine and coastal ecosystems, with the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef on your doorstep.
Marine biology is the scientific study of animals, plants and organisms within the ocean and other saltwater environments. It is also the study of how these elements interact with the marine environment as marine and coastal ecosystems.
Marine biology also involves studying the impact that humans have on the marine environment, and how oceans and the atmosphere interact. In other words, marine biology is also interconnected with climate science and the study of global warming, and with ocean conservation.
Delivery mode
James Cook University offers this course through the following delivery modes:
On campus
Work with instructors and classmates in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Locations
- City Arcade, 383 Flinders Street, Townsville
- 36 Shields Street, Cairns
Entry requirements
Domestic Students
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Course pre-requisites
Assumed Knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C), Mathematical Methods (3/4,C); or equivalent
Recommended: At least one of Biology, Chemistry, 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
Post admission requirements
Some majors require attendance in intensive or mixed mode attendance subjects on either the Townsville or Cairns campus. If students must attend intensive mode classes at a campus other than the one they are enrolled at, they are responsible for their own expenses.
Course pre-requisites
Assumed Knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C), Mathematical Methods (3/4,C); or equivalent
Recommended: At least one of Biology, Chemistry, 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
- IELTS - 6 (no component lower than 6.0)
- TOEFL - 74 (no component less than 18)
- Pearsons - 52 (no component less than 52)
- C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency - 169 (no component less than 169)
- ISLPR - At least 3 in each skill area
- OET* - No component less than B
- AEMG English for Academic Purposes Direct Entry Program (AEAP DEP) Final Exam - Overall 65 with no exam sub-score below 65%
- JCUCEAP - EAP Level 3
*OET is only accepted for the following undergraduate courses: Physiotherapy, Pharmacy, Psychological Science, Occupational Therapy, Nursing Science, Medicine, and Dental Surgery.
Post admission requirements
Some majors require attendance in intensive or mixed mode attendance subjects on either the Townsville or Cairns campus. If students must attend intensive mode classes at a campus other than the one they are enrolled at, they are responsible for their own expenses.
Additional requirements may apply.Course fees
$24,090
$113,880
Career opportunities
The Bachelor of Science (Marine Biology) will prepare you for the following roles.
Aquaculture Manager
An Aquaculture Manager oversees the general running of an aquatic farming operation or hatchery. Your role will involve everything from breeding ne...
Fisheries Officer
A Fisheries Officer takes part in patrols of marine and freshwater waterways to ensure fisheries resources are being used sustainably. You’ll make ...
Fisheries Scientist
A Fisheries Scientist studies aquatic organisms and their ecosystems to ensure sustainable fishing practices and the health of aquatic environments...
Marine Biologist
A Marine Biologist studies animals and plants living in the ocean. You might conduct field work, take samples and conduct tests on a range of speci...
Marine Conservationist
A Marine Conservationist works to protect and restore marine ecosystems and species. You might be involved in research, habitat restoration, and th...
Oceanographer
An Oceanographer studies the ocean’s physical, chemical, and biological properties to understand marine environments and their processes. You might...
About James Cook University
As Australia’s only university established to focus on the issues of Northern Australia and the Tropics worldwide, JCU is dedicated to helping the world’s tropical regions to prosper.
Ranked in the top 2% of universities worldwide we are focused on addressing the critical challenges facing the tropics, in areas as diverse as Medicine, Dentistry, Marine Science, Nursing, Arts and Society.
Inspired by a research-rich environment, the significance of our endeavours is recognised globally by the most credible world university rankings providers. Our strong performance is assessed on quality, relevance and impact.
JCU was awarded 5 Stars for teaching and employability in the QS Stars Rankings for 2021 and 5 Stars for full-time employment, graduate starting salary and student teacher ratio by the Good Universities Guide for 2023.
Career-focused courses provide an exceptional student experience, led by industry professionals who are passionate about sharing their expertise, because experience has no substitute.
