With the Great Barrier Reef on your doorstep and hundreds of opportunities to conduct your own marine research, Australia is one of the most exciting places to study marine biology.
Why study Marine Biology?
Marine biology (or marine science) is the study of aquatic life – the animals, plants and microorganisms that are found in our oceans.
We can tell a lot about our world from what happens underwater. As a marine biology student, you’ll explore the impact of climate change on marine life such as rising water temperatures and rising sea levels. You’ll also study the impact of human actions on our sea life, such as overfishing and plastic pollution.
By doing your own research, you can come up with new ways for us to protect our oceans and help to reverse the effects of climate change. This is a course for those who want to change the world.
Why study Marine Biology in Australia?
On-campus courses
Australia has the benefit of being surrounded entirely by sea, and so there will be plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning. You’ll join a large community of students and academics from around the world that are conducting world-leading research. In Australia, you won’t be restricted to learning in a classroom. You can explore your course hands-on through regular diving trips and research cruises.
Great Barrier Reef
Australia is home to the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest living thing! It’s 2,300km long and is made up of thousands of reefs and hundreds of islands. Home to more than 1,500 species of fish, 215 species of birds and 6 species of turtles, it’s the perfect place to live and learn about marine life. The closest state to the Great Barrier Reef is Queensland, so look into studying here if you’re particularly interested in diving.
Save the turtles
Australia is home to many Turtle rescue centres. Here, turtles that are sick and hurt are taken care of until they are fit enough to return to the sea. This is an excellent opportunity to find volunteer work alongside your studies and get experience working with marine animals.
Australia is the epicentre of Marine Biology
Australia boasts some of the world’s best marine biology courses. It’s also home to some of the biggest employment opportunities in the world. According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022, the best universities in Australia for geology, environmental, earth and marine sciences are:
- Australian National University
- University of Melbourne
- UNSW Sydney
- The University of Queensland
- Monash University
- University of Sydney
- University of Western Australia
- University of Adelaide
- University of Wollongong
- Curtin University
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