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BMarSc - Bachelor of Marine Science

2010

Degree Information

Faculty: Faculty of Science
Course Type: Undergraduate
Campus: North Ryde
Description:

Marine scientists work on the conservation, use and development of the marine and coastal environment. Because of the growing concerns for the protection and the wise use of our natural resources, there is an increasing need for skilled personnel who can advise on, organise and control the development of marine resources and activities.

The Bachelor of Marine Science is intended for students interested in the natural sciences as well as the marine environment. It provides a science focussed curriculum that is intended to prepare you to go on to graduate studies or directly into employment. A core of marine studies units unifies the marine science program and at this stage two Majors are possible, based on the geosciences and biology.

The Bachelor of Marine Science will prepare you for a variety of interesting career opportunities. Federal, state and local government agencies employ marine scientists to regulate and monitor the use of resources, solve problems and conduct research. Private industry provides employment in a diverse range of fields. Employment is also found in a growing number of environmental consultancies and numerous non-government organisations. Opportunities in marine science are growing rapidly.
Key Features:
  • The strong science foundation underpinning this degree provides a wide range of opportunities in environmental fields
  • This degree provides education and training in key areas of Marine Science, with streams in Marine Biology and Marine Geoscience
  • The flexibility of this degree allows you to explore a wide range of interests while still providing opportunities for specialisation in aspects of marine science relating to biology, geology and physical geography
  • Fieldwork is an integral part of the program and includes optional short courses in Fiji and on the Great Barrier Reef.
Suitable for:

Those who are interested in natural sciences as well as the marine environment.
Major Employers:
  • Coastal planning and management agencies
  • CSIRO
  • Department of Environment and Climate Change
  • Department of Primary Industries
  • Environmental consultancies
  • Fisheries
  • Geological survey organisations
  • Government agencies
  • Law specialising in
    - Marine issues
    - Ecotourism
    - Recreation planning
  • Parks and wildlife services
  • Royal Australian Navy
  • Scientific research organisations
  • Universities
Average Starting Salaries:

$42,764 for an environmental studies graduate (source. The Good Universities Guide, Hobsons 2009).
Career Opportunities:
  • Aquaculture/mariculture
  • Computer-based ecological modelling
  • Environmental consulting
  • Exploratory geology/petroleum industry
  • Journalism and broadcasting
  • Marine geology
  • Preparation of impact statements
  • Satellite imagery
  • Teaching and research
  • Underwater archaeology

Requirements

Recommended Prior Knowledge:

HSC Mathematics and Chemistry are recommended studies for biology units. HSC Earth and Environmental Science and HSC Biology or their equivalents are also recommended. Introductory units and bridging courses are available for students without the recommended prior knowledge. Other units taken as part of a degree may require assumed knowledge, prerequisites or recommended studies and you should refer to the Macquarie University Handbook of Undergraduate Studies for full degree requirements ( www.handbook.mq.edu.au ).
Work Experience:

No work experience required
UAC Code:

300515 CSP
UAI Cutoff (previous year):

74.10
2009 ATAR:

76.30
Domestic Students: How to apply Fee Information
International Students: How to apply Fee Information
English Language Requirements:
  • IELTS (Academic english only): Minimum 6.5 overall, with 6.0 in each section
  • TOEFL (Paper based test): Minimum 580 overall, with 53 Listening, 52 Reading, 59 Structure/ Written Expression, 5.0 TWE
  • TOEFL (Computer based test): Minimum 237 overall, with 19 Listening, 19 Reading, 25 Structure/Writing
  • TOEFL (Internet based test): Minimum 92 overall, with 18 Listening, 17 Reading, 22 Writing, 22 Speaking

Course Details

Minimum Course Duration: 3 years full-time / equivalent part-time
Mode of study:

On campus

Administrative Enquiries:

Ph: 61 2 9850 6000
Fax: 61 2 9850 6565
Email: enquiries@science.mq.edu.au
Website: www.science.mq.edu.au
Academic Enquiries:

Ph: 61 2 9850 6000
Fax: 61 2 9850 6565
Email: enquiries@science.mq.edu.au
Website: www.science.mq.edu.au
Enquiries: Contact us for further information
Notes:

From 2010 the UAI will be called the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). Most students will receive a slightly higher ATAR than the equivalent UAI, with similar changes to course cut-offs.

For more information on the ATAR, visit UAC’s website at www.uac.edu.au or call UAC on (02) 9752 0200.

What You Will Study

You must complete a program of study (Major) in one of the following streams:

  • Biology
  • Marine Geoscience

Your program of study may include units from the following subject areas:

  • Animal behaviour
  • Atmospheric and oceanographic science
  • Biodiversity and conservation
  • Climate change
  • Ecology
  • Marine biology
  • Marine science