Undergraduate study in Marine Science
What can you study in Marine Science?
You can study Marine Science as a major in the Bachelor of Science (BSc). You can find out more about this option below.
As a Marine Science student, you can study the following topics:
- Physical and biological structure of the oceans, sea floor and coastlines
- Structure, biodiversity and ecology of lakes, streams, wetlands and estuaries
- Monitoring and managing marine ecosystems
- Oceanography and climate impacts
- Welfare of marine animals and fish stocks
Marine Science is centred at the Leigh Marine Laboratory, which offers unique opportunities in marine and environmental research. Facilities include a new 14m research vessel, excellent diving facilities, a flow-through seawater system for tank experiments, onsite accommodation for students and visitors, a library and access to the University’s online catalogue, aquaculture facilities, a meteorological station and well-equipped laboratories.
We encourage our students to develop an appreciation for Māori and Pacific perspectives on the oceans by taking one or both of the following General Education courses: PACIFIC 100G Introduction to Pacific Studies and MĀORI 130G Te Ao Māori / The Māori World.
Marine Science is multi-disciplinary in nature. Alongside Marine Science, you will study other science subjects. This will develop your ability to interact with specialists from other disciplines to help solve complex problems in the marine world.
Studying a Bachelor of Science majoring in Marine Science
Based in the Institute of Marine Science, the Marine Science major is multi-disciplinary. It involves many of the other sciences to investigate the physical, biological and some social and economic dimensions of the marine environment.
As a Marine Science student, you’ll take a variety of courses from Biological Sciences, Earth Sciences, Environmental Science, Geography and Statistics. You will also complete a compulsory capstone course, MARINE 399, where you’ll demonstrate your learning by engaging in an independent research project under the guidance of an academic mentor.
Explore the Bachelor of Science major in Marine Science schedule in the Curriculum Catalogue to find courses you can study in this major.
Complementary majors
- Biodiversity
- Ecology and Evolution
- Cell and Molecular Bioscience
- Chemistry
- Earth Sciences
- Environmental Science
- Geography
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Statistics
Where can undergraduate study in Marine Science take you?
The number of jobs in Marine Science is increasing steadily due to economic, social and legislative factors. Marine Science graduates find employment in a wide range of areas.
Jobs related to Marine Science
- Education
- Fisheries and aquaculture
- Local territorial authorities, city and regional councils, MAF fisheries, Ministry for the Environment, Department of Conservation
- Research organisations
- Universities
Further study options
Preparing for your Marine Science major
Some students will feel more prepared for our Marine Science courses if they have already studied some science subjects in high school.
Find out which school subjects will help you feel prepared by reading our Subject guide for school students.
Scholarships and awards
Each year we award scholarships and prizes to thousands of students.
Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for, search available scholarships or begin an application by visiting Scholarships and awards.
Help and advice
Student Hubs
Visit a Student Hub for help and advice on any aspect of your studies and life at University.
The Student Hubs are your physical gateway to Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland.
Our Student Hub services are available seven days a week at the City, Grafton and Tai Tonga campuses and six days a week at Tai Tokerau, with friendly staff available to provide you with advice on any aspect of your studies and life at the University.