Key information
Start dates
March
July
Delivery mode
In person
(Bedford Park)
Work with animals and the ocean and discover a career with impact
Marine biology offers a wide range of career opportunities. With the increasing focus on marine conservation and sustainability, the demand for skilled marine biologists is on the rise.
Marine Biologist
Marine biologists study ocean life and the ecosystems it depends on - from coral reefs and coastal zones to deep-sea habitats.
You might research species behaviour, assess ecosystem health, or evaluate the impacts of climate change and pollution.
Your work will contribute to conservation policy, reef restoration or marine sustainability, and might find yourself employed in research organisations, government departments, marine parks and universities.
Aquaculture Technician
Aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing food sectors worldwide, and Australia is a leader in farming tuna, oysters, prawns and seaweed. Aquaculture Technicians support the sustainable production of seafood by monitoring water quality, maintaining farm systems, and caring for aquatic species.
This role combines hands-on husbandry with environmental science. You could be checking oxygen levels in fish pens, managing breeding programs, or working with researchers to reduce disease outbreaks. Flinders equips you with expertise in marine biology, fisheries, and aquaculture systems - preparing you to contribute to this booming industry.
Sources: Seek, 2025 | Jora, 2025
Environmental Consultant (Marine Focus)
Environmental Consultants advise on the ecological impacts of coastal projects such as ports, aquaculture farms or marine parks. You’ll conduct field surveys, write impact reports and provide recommendations to government or industry.
Science Communicator / Marine Educator
Marine Educators and Communicators share scientific knowledge with schools, aquariums, tourism operators and the public. You might run outreach programs, develop exhibits or design marine education resources.
Fisheries Officer
Fisheries Officers work for state and federal agencies to manage fish stocks and enforce sustainability regulations. Duties include inspections, patrolling coastal waters, and community education.
Research Scientist
Research Scientists investigate marine ecosystems, species and climate impacts through field studies, lab experiments and data modelling. You might study coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef, restore seagrass meadows in Gulf St Vincent, or trial sustainable aquaculture practices. Research roles often involve publishing findings, securing grants and collaborating with government or industry.
Learn from the experts.
Our incredible teaching and professional staff are experts in their fields and well-connected to the industry.
Frequently asked questions.
Over the years, many questions have been asked by students before. For the quickest answers view our frequently asked questions or browse the full list @ Ask Flinders.
No, but field trips and practical marine studies will often involve time in boats or on the coast. Scuba diving is a bonus but not required.
You could! Many graduates go on to work in marine research involving large animals, especially if you pursue honours or postgraduate study.
You might conduct coastal surveys, water quality assessments, biodiversity monitoring, or participate in ecological restoration activities.
Yes - this degree is tailored specifically to marine systems and ocean life, while environmental science has a broader focus across air, land, and water.
You’ll study introductory chemistry and maths in first year to support your understanding of marine systems - but support is available if you need it.
Yes! Field trips often involve working from boats to collect data, take samples, or observe marine life in their natural environments.
Definitely. Climate change and human activity are major themes in marine biology—and you’ll explore their effects on ocean ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainability..
Yes - you can tailor your degree with a minor in Geospatial Information Systems, Aquaculture, Coasts and Oceans, Environmental Restoration, Microbiology and many more. It depends on what interests you most.
While you don’t need to be an expert swimmer, you should be comfortable around water for many fieldwork activities. You’ll always be supported by staff and safety procedures.
Yes - your third year includes the option to complete a placement or a research project, giving you real-world experience before you graduate.
A lot! You’ll be in labs, on boats, and in the field from early on in the degree. It’s a science course built around real experience—not just theory.
Absolutely. Marine biology is a global field, and your skills will be transferable to roles across research, conservation and industry worldwide.
- Applications are completed via SATAC
- Visit: satac.edu.au
The table below shows ATAR and Selection Rank data for students offered a place wholly or partly on the basis of ATAR commencing in Semester 1, 2025. It is limited to applicants that have recently completed secondary education (within the last two years). Data may reflect multiple courses available within a suite of courses.
Notes:
<5 – less than 5 ATAR based offers made
N/A – This course uses additional selection criteria and therefore Selection Rank is not published
| ATAR-based offers only across all offer rounds | ATAR - Excluding adjustment factors | Selection Rank - ATAR plus any adjustment factors |
|---|---|---|
| Highest rank to receive an offer | 95.20 | 99.95 |
| Median rank to receive an offer | 76.17 | 80.42 |
| Lowest rank to receive an offer | 57.75 | 61.00 |
| Applicant background (Semester 1, 2025) | Number of students | Percentage of all students |
|---|---|---|
| Higher education study (includes a bridging or enabling course) | 44 | 37% |
| Vocational education and training (VET) study | 5 | 4% |
| Work and life experience | <5 | <5 |
| Recent secondary education - Admitted solely on the basis of ATAR (regardless of whether this includes the consideration of adjustment factors such as equity or subject bonus points) | 28 | 24% |
| Recent secondary education - Admitted where both ATAR and additional criteria were considered (e.g. portfolio, audition, extra test) | <5 | <5 |
| Recent secondary education - Admitted on the basis of other criteria only and ATAR was not a factor (e.g. special consideration pathways) | 17 | 14% |
| International Students | 18 | 15% |
| All students | 118 | 100% |
Sturt Rd, Bedford Park
South Australia 5042
South Australia | Northern Territory
Global | Online
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