Program Overview

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Bachelor of Coastal and Marine Science

The Bachelor of Coastal and Marine Science is a comprehensive program that equips students with the knowledge and skills to understand and manage coastal and marine environments. The program focuses on the ecological, physical, conservation, societal, and management issues affecting these environments.

Degree Overview

Students in this program will learn from experts in marine, coastal, and ecological fields, gaining practical skills to make a positive impact on the world. The program features skills-based courses, extensive fieldwork opportunities, and integrates subjects like biology, ecology, earth science, and management of the coastal zone.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program will have strong expertise in conducting fieldwork and analyzing data, as well as the ability to communicate results effectively. The flexible structure of the degree allows students to pursue careers across all sectors of the marine and coastal workforce.

• Environmental/Marine Consultant
  • Aquatic Ecologist
  • Scientific Officer
  • Catchment Management Officer
  • Environmental Education Officer
  • Fisheries Research Scientist/Technician/Officer
  • Aquaculture Research Scientist/Technician
  • Environment and Sustainability Coordinator
  • Land and Sea Ranger
  • Marine Policy Analyst
  • Marine Resource Manager
  • Ecotourism Coordinator

Program Details

• Program Code: 40210
• Selection Rank: 67.00
• Duration (Full-time/Part-time): 3 years up to 8 years
• Next Start Date: 17 August 2026
• CRICOS Code:
• Indicative Fee: AUD 46,285

Admission Information

• English Proficiency Requirements: IELTS overall minimum - 6.0, IELTS section minimum - 6.0
• Admission Criteria: Successful completion of a senior secondary school qualification similar to the Higher School Certificate (HSC)

Course Structure

The program includes core courses, minors, and electives. Core courses cover fundamental marine science skills, while minors allow students to specialize in areas such as animal biology, biodiversity and conservation, or sustainability.

Core Courses

• ENVS2004 Ecology
• ENVS2320 Experimental Design and Analysis in Ecology
• ENVS3008 Work Integrated Learning in the Environmental and Development Sectors
• GEOS2161 Spatial Science
• GEOS3220 Coastal Environments and Processes
• MARI1000 Our Oceans
• MARI2300 Marine Biology
• MARI3300 Integrated Coastal Ecosystems
• MARI3500 Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture
• SCIE1002 Multidisciplinary Laboratories
• SCIE2223 Weather and Waves

Minors

Students can choose from a variety of minors, including:

• Animal Biology
• Biodiversity and Conservation
• Cell and Molecular Biology
• Chemistry
• Coastal and Surface Processes
• Communication
• Education Studies
• Environmental Regulation
• Environmental Science
• Environmental Toxicology and Health
• Food Science
• Geography
• Indigenous Environmental and Community Practice
• Microbiology
• Plant Biology
• Riparian Restoration and Sustainability
• Social Science
• Sustainability
• Sustainable Tourism Futures
• Water and Resource Management

Electives

Students must complete 70 units of electives, which can be used to extend and complement core studies or explore areas of interest.

Student Experience

The program offers career-ready placements, engaging students in up to 140 hours of field-based scenarios and interactions with industry, government, and not-for-profit sectors. Students also have the opportunity to participate in research projects and collaborate with researchers from the university and other institutions.

Campus Life

The University of Newcastle has campuses in Newcastle, Central Coast, and Sydney, each offering a unique study environment. Students can engage in various extracurricular activities, join clubs and societies, and enjoy the benefits of on-campus accommodation.

Scholarships

The university offers scholarships to recognize achievement and support dedicated students. Both current and prospective students are encouraged to apply for scholarships that match their criteria.

Accommodation

On-campus accommodation is available, providing students with a supportive and diverse community environment conducive to academic success and personal growth.

Similar Degrees

For students interested in related fields, the university also offers the Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management and the Bachelor of Science, among other programs.