Program Overview

Marine environments around the world are increasingly vulnerable to climate change, coastal development and resources extraction. This course responds to the growing need to protect Australia’s coastal waters in particular, with an emphasis on marine biology, oceanographic sciences and resource management.

In this course you will be challenged to think as a marine scientist, developing your initiative and intellectual curiosity to help understand and protect the marine environment.

The course is delivered by staff with research expertise in fish ecology, coral reef ecology, marine pollution, seafloor mapping, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. It has also been designed with industry input, to ensure you develop scientific and marine research skills.

During your studies you'll interact with professionals working in marine and coastal science and management organisations. These may include Curtin's Centre for Marine Science and Technology; marine science consultancies; and Western Australia's Department of Fisheries, Water and Environmental Regulation, and Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
 

What you'll learn

• Have demonstrated knowledge and understanding in coastal and marine science that is typically at a level that, whilst supported by advanced textbooks, includes some aspects that will be informed by knowledge of the forefront of coastal and marine science, GC1
• Can apply their knowledge and understanding in a manner that indicates a professional approach to coastal and marine science, and have competencies typically demonstrated through devising and sustaining arguments (to both specialist and non-specialist audiences) and solving problems within coastal and marine science, GC2
• Understand the constructs of the scientific method and apply these principles in coastal and marine science using digital technologies, GC3
• Can gather and interpret relevant data within coastal and marine science to inform judgements that include reflection on relevant social, scientific, or ethical issues, including being aware of the diversity of international perspectives associated with coastal and marine science, and how these impact upon the practice of coastal and marine science, GC4
• Understand and appreciate cultural diversity and how it impacts on the practice of coastal and marine science, GC5
• Display a high standard of professional behaviour, including effective time management, both independently and as a team member, GC6