Marine Science is the scientific study of the oceans and combines research areas in aquaculture, coastal processes, fisheries science, marine biology, marine conservation, marine geology and oceanography to explore the marine habitat. Alongside learning about the theory of Marine Science, you will have the opportunity to develop practical skills in research design and analysis of the marine environment.

Marine Science is centred at the Leigh Marine Laboratory, which offers unique opportunities in marine research. Facilities include a 14m research vessel and several smaller boats, diving support, 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.

Based in the Institute of Marine Science, the Marine Science major is a multi-disciplinary subject involving 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’ll 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.

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

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.