Course details

Summary

Studying a Bachelor of Science is guaranteed to quench your thirst for knowledge about the world, and will be the start of a lifelong career in science.

Study with us and you have access to some of the best lecturers in New Zealand and state-of-the-art equipment. You’ll have lots of opportunities to apply your knowledge in the lab or on field trips. Our strong links with the scientific community extend right across the world – making it easy for you to transition from university to your career.

In the Marine Biology major in the Bachelor of Science you explore marine sciences, including the biology of fish and aquatic plants and marine invertebrates.

With 71 percent of the earth’s surface covered by water, marine life is critical to our existence. It’s one of the most valuable sources of food, medicine and raw materials. New discoveries are made daily in marine biology and ecology, making this an exciting and dynamic career choice with endless potential.

This major covers marine biology (the scientific study of organisms in the ocean) and marine ecology (how marine organisms interact with each other and the environment). Field trips are a key part of this major – you frequently go out on boats to investigate marine life or learn about aquaculture techniques, coastal processes, oceanography, management and conservation theories and practices.
Key features:

Dynamic industry with regular new discoveries
Hands-on learning in marine environments, using AUT’s custom-built boat
Opportunity to complete a research project and industry placement

Career opportunities:

Aquaculture business owner
Marine scientist or technologist
Farm/hatchery manager
Production supervisor
Science teacher

Entry criteria

Applicants must be 18 years old and have obtained a qualification equivalent to New Zealand year 13.

Selection criteria:

Preference will be given to applicants who have two or more science subjects

Students who do not have the above background may be directed to take certain papers in their first year of study.

Preferred New Zealand school subjects: Biology and other science subjects

English Language requirements:

Minimum IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 overall with all bands 5.5 or higher; TOEFL iBT score of 80; Computer-based: Total score of 213 with a minimum essay rating of 4.0; Certificate in English for Academic Study (CertEAS) with B/B+ grade; GIE with B grade; CAE minimum overall score of 169; PTE minimum overall score of 50.