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.

Course Learning Outcomes

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 an industry-orientated degree with career-focused science specialisations. Graduates are equipped with both scientific knowledge and practical skills to address critical global issues.

The three specialisations in Environment, Agriculture and Marine offer focused expertise aligned with real-world applications, allowing students to tackle environmental challenges, sustainable agricultural practices, and marine conservation.

Graduates from the Bachelor of Science will have diverse employment opportunities across environmental, marine, and agricultural sectors, each offering local and international prospects.

Marine

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.

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

Marine

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.

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Indicative total fee $27,942

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.

Southern Cross University believes in the power of change. Their graduates stride the global stage at the frontline of healthcare, transforming education in the classroom, and tackling the world’s wicked problems with scientific and engineering solutions. Students enjoy award winning support, teaching quality, and online delivery. Ranked among the best for many years, they will help you make the change you seek to transform your tomorrow.

Learn more about SCU.

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QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

30

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

35

ATAR: 65 or equivalent.

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:

• 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 will be required to attend compulsory residential workshops at our National Marine Science Centre in Coffs Harbour and our Lismore campus over the duration of the degree. For more information on these residential workshops, please refer to the course page on the Southern Cross University website.