Bachelor of Science (Marine)

Course Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a course. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes (GA):

GA1: Intellectual rigour

• Apply holistic approaches and scientific methods to find solutions to complex and interdependent environmental and societal challenges.
• Select and apply appropriate scientific methods, techniques and tools to systematically collect and accurately record data.
• Develop practical and cognitive skills to synthesise, critically evaluate, and interpret scientific data and other information to draw rigorous conclusions and solve problems with intellectual independence.

GA2: Creativity

• Select and apply appropriate scientific methods, techniques and tools to systematically collect and accurately record data.
• Develop practical and cognitive skills to synthesise, critically evaluate, and interpret scientific data and other information to draw rigorous conclusions and solve problems with intellectual independence.

GA3: Ethical practice

• Develop reflective practice in the context of learning, professional development and ethical practice in science.
• Demonstrate professional judgement, ethical behaviour, academic and research integrity, and an understanding of relevant professional standards and regulatory frameworks.

GA4: Knowledge of a discipline

• Develop practical and cognitive skills to synthesise, critically evaluate, and interpret scientific data and other information to draw rigorous conclusions and solve problems with intellectual independence.
• Demonstrate broad and well-developed knowledge of the theory and application of scientific principles and techniques.
• GA5: Lifelong learning
• Develop practical and cognitive skills to synthesise, critically evaluate, and interpret scientific data and other information to draw rigorous conclusions and solve problems with intellectual independence.
• Develop reflective practice in the context of learning, professional development and ethical practice in science.
• Demonstrate collaborative skills and cultural competencies, including Indigenous perspectives.

GA6: Communication and social skills

• Apply holistic approaches and scientific methods to find solutions to complex and interdependent environmental and societal challenges.
• Develop practical and cognitive skills to synthesise, critically evaluate, and interpret scientific data and other information to draw rigorous conclusions and solve problems with intellectual independence.
• Effectively communicate scientific knowledge, arguments and conclusions clearly and coherently to a range of audiences using well-developed oral and written communication skills and a variety of media.

GA7: Cultural competence

• Demonstrate collaborative skills and cultural competencies, including Indigenous perspectives.

The Bachelor of Science at Southern Cross University is a streamlined, industry-orientated degree designed to produce graduates who do not just study the world - they solve its most critical challenges. This program is market-responsive and focused on high-employment relevance, blending rigorous theoretical knowledge with immersive field studies and optional work placements.

Through a scaffolded learning approach, you will progress from foundational scientific inquiry to mastering complex, independent research. You will graduate with a unique toolkit: the intellectual rigour to analyse data, the creativity to find scientific solutions, and the cultural competency to work alongside Indigenous and global communities. 

Marine Specialisation 

Dive into the "Blue Economy" at our world-class National Marine Science Centre, located adjacent to the Solitary Islands Marine Park. 

The experience: Study oceanography, marine ecology, and aquaculture in a living laboratory. You will learn to manage marine parks and fisheries using holistic scientific methods. 

Careers: Prepare for roles as a Marine Biologist, Fisheries Officer, or Marine Policy Analyst, focusing on global marine sustainability and eco-tourism. 

Why Southern Cross Science? 

Practical mastery: Integrated work placements and residential schools ensure you graduate with "boots-on-the-ground" experience. 

Collaborative skills: We embed teamwork and communication throughout the degree, reflecting the collaborative nature of modern scientific workplaces. 

Ethical leadership: Gain the professional integrity and cultural awareness required to navigate complex regulatory frameworks and diverse social contexts. 

Award requirements

To be eligible to receive the Bachelor of Science, students must complete the equivalent of 24 units (288 credit points), comprising:

• 9 core units (108 credit points), and
• 1 specialisation in Environment or Marine or Agriculture (132 credit points), and
• 4 equivalent option units (48 credit points).

Choose your subjects

Majors

This specialisation builds on introductory earth systems knowledge with units at our National Marine Science Centre, positioned near the Solitary Islands Marine Park. These units cover oceanography, marine ecology, fish and aquaculture, reefs, fisheries and marine parks management.

This specialisation dives into the study of marine ecosystems, oceanography and marine conservation. Students explore the dynamic relationships between marine organisms and their environments. Graduates are well-positioned for roles in marine research and conservation, fisheries management and environmental policy.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $28,962

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Revolutionary learning for strong employment outcomes

At Southern Cross University, online study is designed to fit around your life without compromising on quality. Through the Southern Cross Model, you learn in focused six-week terms, usually studying one or two units at a time.

This immersive approach helps you stay motivated, build momentum and balance study with work, family and other commitments.

You'll be supported by innovative teaching, practical learning experiences and a university community committed to your success - whether you're interested in business, education, healthcare, law, engineering, IT, science or other career-focused study areas.

Your flexible online study comes with the support, connections and confidence to help you achieve your goals and take the next step in your career.

Learn more about Southern Cross University

Explore Southern Cross University courses

QS World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

31

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

32

ATAR: 65 or equivalent.

Southern Cross Uni's Early Offer program also allows Year 12 students to secure a place in most Southern Cross University undergraduate degrees before Year 12 results are released. It’s designed to remove some of the pressure from Year 12 and provide a pathway directly into university study that is not based solely on Year 12 results.

English language requirements apply to International applicants and other applicants whose previous study was undertaken in a language other than English. The minimum English language requirements for such applicants for entry to this course are as follows. Don’t meet the English language requirements? View our English language programs.

• Overall: 6.0
• Listening: minimum 5.5
• Reading: minimum 5.5
• Speaking: minimum 5.5
• Writing: minimum 5.5.

Credit for Prior Learning, also referred to as ‘Advanced Standing’ or Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL), is the process of looking at your prior study and/or experience to assess if you can be awarded academic credit or gain entry to a course on the basis of your existing knowledge and skills.

Students may choose to undertake an optional internship placement at career-relevant workplaces.

Online students must complete on-campus compulsory residentials for some units (please see the Course Structure/Progression section of the Southern Cross University course page).