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Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic Science (P3L)

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Overview (2027)

Key Information

Duration

Minimum 3 years, up to a maximum of 7 years.

This course is available to study as both part-time or full-time
Duration
Duration refers to the minimum and maximum amounts of time in which this course can be completed. It will be affected by whether you choose to study full or part time, noting that some programs are only available part time.

Location

Hobart
Semester 1, Semester 2

"I would 100% recommend studying at IMAS. It provides an excellent basis for making connections within the scientific community, the facilities are amazing, and the research and volunteer opportunities are unmatched!”

Kat Stuart
Marine and Antarctic Science student

The Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic Science is a distinctive, interdisciplinary degree that will prepare you to understand and address some of the most pressing challenges facing our oceans and polar regions. It is the only degree of its kind in Australia with a combined focus on both temperate marine systems and the Antarctic and Southern Ocean, positioning you at the forefront of globally significant environmental science.

Delivered through the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) in Hobart, the course brings together expertise from across natural and social sciences, enabling you to build a comprehensive understanding of marine environments. You will develop the ability to integrate knowledge across disciplines, which is a critical skill for tackling complex, real-world problems.

A defining feature of the degree is its strong emphasis on experiential learning. Throughout the course, you will engage in hands-on laboratory and field-based activities, including vessel-based learning in Tasmania’s globally recognised marine environment. Work-integrated learning is embedded through opportunities such as the Practicum in the Marine Environment, where you gain direct industry experience. You will also undertake an intensive Marine Research Project that develops your independent research skills.

The course has been designed in close consultation with Antarctic and Southern Ocean scientists, government and governance practitioners, and representatives from the aquaculture and fisheries sectors. This collaboration ensures the curriculum reflects current industry needs, emerging research priorities, and the skills required by employers across marine, Antarctic, and environmental fields.

With majors spanning biological, physical, and social sciences, including marine and Antarctic governance, marine biology, oceans, ice and climate, sustainable aquaculture, and sustainable fisheries, you can tailor your studies to match your interests and career goals. At the same time, all students build strong core capabilities in data analysis and scientific communication.

This degree equips you with the knowledge, practical experience, and industry connections to pursue careers in research, environmental management, policy, and sustainable development. These are fields that are critical to the future of our planet.

Catalyst Program

Want to combine your degree with overseas trips, summer research programs, scholarships and special events? Our Catalyst Program offers domestic high achieving school leavers all this and more.

All domestic students with an ATAR of 90 or greater, enrolled in a range of STEM courses will be awarded a $3,000 Catalyst Scholarship. Across the program students can access scholarships of up to $14,500 in value, and gain experience that will make you stand out in your chosen field. Learn more about the Catalyst Program.

Double Degree

This degree can be combined to form a double degree. Study what you want, explore your options and find out how you can accelerate your career.

Watch our course information webinar

Thinking of studying this course in 2026 and want to learn more? This webinar explores course structures, career opportunities, and the student experience to support your study journey.

Watch now

  • 1 Solve problems in Marine and/or Antarctic disciplines through collecting, recording, analysing and discussing quantitative and/or qualitative data
  • 2 Evaluate complex issues in Marine and/or Antarctic science through applying appropriate interdisciplinary approaches, reflective practice and critical thinking.
  • 3 Plan focussed research investigations using appropriate practical and/or theoretical techniques relevant to the discipline.
  • 4 Translate diverse forms of scientific knowledge for stakeholders to inform policy and responsible management practices in the Marine and Antarctic environments.

Our study options offer you extensive practical learning opportunities on vessels, in the field, and in the lab. You will have the opportunity to take part in industry based placements and certifications.

Field trip opportunities may include exploring the marine life of Southern Tasmania, joining a voyage on a research vessel, and studying the birds and mammals of the Southern Ocean on the Tasman Peninsula.

Your learning experiences also benefit from our strong relationships and proximity to international experts and industry-leading facilities including the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD), CSIRO, and the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR). You will have the opportunity to pursue work experience and research projects with these organisations, including field trips to coastal sites around Tasmania.

Unparalleled access to world-leading facilities

The Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) is a world-class centre of excellence for research and education at the University of Tasmania. Located in Southern Tasmania, it is the home to one of the world's largest critical masses of marine and Antarctic researchers. IMAS teaching facilities are located in Hobart and Taroona.

The IMAS Hobart building provides operational facilities, the Integrated Marine Observing System, the Southern Ocean Observing System, and the Australian Antarctic Partnership Program. It offers five purpose-built and state-of-the-art laboratories, as well as lecture theatre, computer lab, and flexible learning spaces.


A new, purpose-built, world-class aquaculture and fisheries teaching and research facility is being built in Taroona, located on the banks of the Derwent River just 15 minutes south of Hobart. Expected to open in 2026, the Taroona facilities will feature the latest teaching and research training laboratories for tropical and temperate species. You'll be able to work and study alongside industry partners and international research leaders.

Catalyst Program and Dean's Summer Research Scholarship

The Catalyst Program is available to high achieving domestic high school leavers studying a STEM course. It combines your Bachelor degree with scholarships, extracurricular experiences, special events, and networking opportunities. As a Catalyst scholarship recipient, you can participate in the Dean’s Summer Research Scholarship (DSRS) three times throughout your degree, with up to $9,000 in scholarships. Non-Catalyst students may also undertake the DSRS with a scholarship payment of $2,000 per experience.

As a Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic Science student, you can take advantage of additional benefits such as access to work-integrated learning opportunities or research projects. Learn more about the Catalyst Program. Learn more about the Catalyst Program.

Become a Student Ambassador

Improve your communication, teamwork and leadership skills, meet new people, inspire and help others, and developing lasting friendships and networks as a student ambassador. Our ambassadors proudly represent the University throughout Tasmania in schools, at University and community events, and support a range of recruitment and engagement activities. Though the Student Ambassador Program or STEM Outreach Team you will have many opportunities for training and professional development, experience in real-world community engagement and outreach, networking, and public speaking, plus end up with a key point of distinction on your CV.

Study overseas at one of our partner institutions

Our international exchange program offers opportunities to study at universities around the world, and it counts towards your degree. Exchange can allow you to have an affordable educational and cultural experience in a foreign country for a semester, or a full year. To facilitate this, we offer a range of scholarships and financial assistance. You may also be eligible for OS-HELP Loans or scholarship funding to assist with their airfares, accommodation and other expenses.

Tasmania has thriving aquaculture and marine research sectors for you to engage with and learn from while you study, with work placement and experience opportunities available for all study options.

We offer opportunities for placements and research projects within businesses, non-government organisations, and research centres. Our deep connections across these vast industries connect you with best-practice businesses that are exporting to the world, globally connected policy setters, and research centres undertaking world-leading study. This provides both direct, first-hand educational experiences as well as the opportunity to build valuable networks towards your future career.

If you choose the Sustainable Aquaculture specialisation, you will engage directly with the industry through a work placement unit. This unit is designed to develop aquaculture, fisheries, coastal management, and marine conservation skills, and gain an appreciation of the work environment.

Whatever you’re passionate about, we’ll give you a hands-on education and an unforgettable adventure with our work integrated learning opportunities.

Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic Science graduates can apply to become a Professional Member of the Australian Marine Sciences Association (AMSA).

Career outcomes

"I’m conveying scientific messages as a public speaker, I’m on the water 8-10 hours a day educating people about the ecosystem and climate change, and I’ll sometimes have people on the boat who are geologists, and I’m learning from them, too."

Tamsin Jones
Marine and Antarctic Science

Find out more

Studying Marine and Antarctic Science opens you up to a range of exciting career options across a whole range of marine-oriented sectors. Marine biologists research, dive and explore, while oceanographers utilise maths, physics and big data to track sea-level rise, and understand the ocean’s role in climate change.

Applied science careers

Marine resource managers help guide the use of ever-strained oceans and ecosystems, while the sustainable aquaculture industry is exporting both product and best-practice to help sustainably feed the world. Through applied applications, your passion for marine and Antarctic studies can drive local changes for global benefits.

Research careers

This degree provides a clear pathway for students to undertake postgraduate and PhD study and can lead to employment with local industry connections. The Australian Antarctic Program Partnership between the University of Tasmania, CSIRO, the Bureau of Meteorology and the Australian Antarctic Division employs PhD students, early-career researchers and technicians working with senior scientists.

With the highest concentration of marine and Antarctic scientists in the southern hemisphere, Tasmania is an ideal location to launch your career.

Career opportunities in each of the five majors include

MARINE AND ANTARCTIC GOVERNANCE

  • Marine Governance Consultant: Provide advice and recommendations on legal rights and obligations, ensuring operations are conducted within the relevant frameworks of law and governance.
  • Environmental Management: Ensure the operations of the business or research body adhere to environmental legislation and develop and implement strategies to promote environmental best practices.
  • Project Manager: Responsibile for the planning and execution of a project, including coordination, budgeting, and progress reporting.
  • Communications Manager : Oversee internal and external communications through various channels, synthesising and distilling complex, high-level information for a variety of audiences.
  • Policy Analyst : Research data, relationships, and policy developments surrounding environmental challenges and provide recommendations for their solutions based on legislation and policies.

MARINE BIOLOGY

  • Marine Park and spatial manager:  Manage marine areas and guide how they're used, shape conservation policy, and support marine spatial planning to ensure these environments are protected for future generations.
  • Conservation biologist: Protect endangered marine species and ecosystems, uncover the reasons they're at risk, and use scientific research to guide conservation policy, population recovery, and habitat restoration.
  • Antarctic / Polar Marine Scientist: Lead research on the world’s most southern continent, support discoveries, and advance Antarctic science.
  • Environmental Impact Assessment Ecologist: Lead baseline surveys and environmental monitoring, support project approvals, evaluate impacts, and guide mitigation for coastal and offshore developments.
  • Marine Biosecurity Officer: Monitor and manage marine pest risks and invasive species pathways across ports, vessels, and aquaculture, support surveillance efforts, response planning, and effective risk communication.
  • Science Communicator / Marine Education Officer:Translate marine science for diverse audiences through education programs, community outreach, interpretive content, and media communications.
  • Marine Data Scientist: Integrate biological and environmental data through GIS, satellite and drone imagery, eDNA, and acoustic monitoring to map habitats, track biodiversity change, and support ecological decision-making.

OCEANS, ICE AND CLIMATE

  • Advisor or consultant for climate risk: Provide climate‑risk insights for government and industry, supporting assessment, planning, and informed decision‑making.
  • Climate change adaptation: Support sea‑level rise planning through flood‑risk assessment and coastal adaptation strategies, contributing to national resilience and the protection of coastal environments.
  • Carbon management: Implement carbon reduction practices for Australia’s corporate sector under Australia’s legislated commitment to achieve net-zero carbon by 2050.
  • Climate repair: Apply interdisciplinary skills to support emerging enterprises and tech start‑ups focused on tackling the climate emergency and advancing sustainable solutions.
  • Data analyst: Apply high-demand programming, artificial intelligence, and big‑data skills with a climate change focus in the insurance and corporate sectors and Australia’s fast‑growing tech industry.
  • Antarctic researcher: Apply interdisciplinary skills to study the Southern Ocean and Antarctica, contributing to research programs with CSIRO, the Australian Antarctic Division, the University of Tasmania, and other leading research organisations.

SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE

  • Hatchery and Production Manager: Translate scientific advancements into innovation by enhancing commercial hatchery and production systems, and developing new aquaculture species.
  • Fish Health and Nutrition Scientist: Conduct research and design innovative products and technologies to enhance animal welfare, improve performance, and ensure the quality of seafood products.
  • Aquaculture Systems Engineer: Integrate animal and plant biology with advanced technology and multi-trophic systems to sustainably produce seafood in onshore, coastal, and offshore environments.
  • Conservation Aquaculture Biologist: Apply marine plant and animal biology and physiology to explore, conserve, and safeguard threatened species and marine biodiversity for future generations.
  • Aquatic Biosecurity Officer: Develop, implement, and enforce policies aimed at safeguarding Australian aquatic ecosystems while ensuring the sustainable future of commercial seafood production.

SUSTAINABLE FISHERIES

  • Marine/Fisheries Research Scientist: Explore everything from animal movement, genetics, and food webs to the economic drivers of fishing, working both on the water and in the lab.
  • Fisheries Manager / Policy Officer: Work in collaboration with fishers, scientists, industry groups, and government agencies. Design rules for sustainable fishing, protecting habitats, and balancing community needs with conservation.
  • Environmental / Fisheries Technician: This career provides the opportunity to work on boats sampling fish, testing water quality, identifying species, or helping scientists run field experiments, working in labs processing samples and supporting monitoring programs.
  • Environmental/Fisheries Technician: You will be a hands-on problem solver collecting data required to manage and protect aquatic environments. As an Environmental and fisheries technician, you will an essential member of research and management teams.
  • Environmental Consultant: Use scientific knowledge to advise governments and organisations make smarter, more sustainable decisions, developing fishing regulations, doing environmental impact studies, or designing plans to reduce harm to sensitive ecosystems.
  • Fisheries Observer: Work onboard commercial vessels or in processing plants recording what’s being caught, how fishing gear is used, and whether protected species are affected.

Postgraduate study

If you successfully complete this course, you may be also be eligible to apply for a range of other postgraduate courses including graduate certificates and graduate diplomas and master's by coursework and research degrees.

Course structure

The Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic Science requires the completion of 300 credit points comprising:

  • 100 credit point Major
  • 100 credit points of Core units
  • 100 credit points of Elective units

A Major is an area of focus in your degree. During your studies, you’ll choose an area that interests you, and then study a group of units related to that area. Find out more at What is a Major?

For your major, you may select from one of the majors below.

The core units are compulsory for all students.

In your elective component you can choose from any units marked as "Student Electives" for which you meet any pre-requisites, at any level, from across the university. 

Your electives can be used to add breadth to your degree, by exploring a variety of different subject areas from within or outside the College of Sciences and Engineering. Alternatively, you can deepen your engagement with specific subject areas, for example, by completing additional units in the same discipline as your major or related fields.

You can also use this space to complete an optional second major which may be a (i) *second disciplinary major, (ii) a sustainability major, or (iii) *another major from across the institution, noting some exclusions apply. (*to enrol in a second disciplinary major, or a major outside your discipline, please contact a Student Advisor via Uconnect).

We have a team of Course Information Officers available to help you structure your studies to meet your desired outcomes.  For enrolment assistance please contact us via U Connect today.

Entry requirements

We encourage you to apply for the courses you most want to study. If you are not eligible to enter your chosen course right now, the University’s admissions team will work with you to find the best pathway option.

Enquire online for more advice on the application process and the available pathways to enrol and study at the University of Tasmania.

Schools Recommendation Program

Australian year 12 students can apply for this course via our Schools Recommendation Program. Rather than an ATAR, your application is based on a recommendation by your school teachers. This can factor in your year 11 results, an assessment of your capabilities, and other considerations.

Through the program, you can receive and accept an offer prior to completing year 12. You will still need to finish your year 12 studies – including any exams – to commence your studies. In addition, certain majors for this course require you to pass specific pre-requisite subjects in Year 12 (or equivalent), see below for details.

If you don’t receive an offer for this course through the Schools Recommendation Program, you will be re-assessed for a higher preference offer once your ATAR is released.

Domestic applicants who recently completed secondary education

Applicants are ranked by ATAR and offers are made based on the number of places available.  This course has a Guaranteed ATAR of 65.

In 2026, the lowest ATAR to receive an offer into this course was 65.4. The lowest ATAR to receive an offer may change from year to year based on the number of applications we receive.

Applicants who have recently completed senior secondary studies but have not received an ATAR may still be eligible for admission. We will consider your individual subject results on a case-by-case basis when we assess your application.

Domestic applicants with higher education study

To be eligible for an offer, applicants must have:

  • Partially completed an undergraduate course at Diploma level or higher (or equivalent). Applicants must have completed at least two units of study (equivalent to 25 University of Tasmania credit points). If an applicant has failed any units, the application may be subject to further review before an offer is made; OR
  • Completed the University of Tasmania University Preparation Program (or an equivalent qualification offered by an Australian university).

Domestic applicants with VET / TAFE study

To be eligible for an offer, applicants must have completed a Certificate IV (or equivalent) in any discipline.  

Domestic applicants with work and life experience

Applicants without senior secondary, tertiary or VET / TAFE study can complete a personal competency statement.

Applicants may be eligible for an offer if they have relevant work and/or life experiences which demonstrate a capacity to succeed in this course.  

Subject Prerequisites

These prerequisites (by major) apply to students from all educational backgrounds.

To be eligible for an offer, you must have completed studies or have experience equivalent to a satisfactory achievement in the following Tasmanian Senior Secondary subjects:

Major

Prerequisite Senior Secondary Studies

Marine and Antarctic Governance

Nil

Marine Biology

Biology (BIO315124) OR Chemistry (CHM415115) OR Physics (PHY415115) OR equivalent 

AND
General Mathematics (MTG315123) OR equivalent 

Sustainable Fisheries

Nil

Oceans, Ice and Climate

Mathematics Methods (MTM415117) or equivalent  

and

Physical Sciences (PSC315118) OR equivalent 

Sustainable Aquaculture

Nil

You can enquire online for information on interstate and international equivalents to the Tasmanian senior secondary subject above. If you need assistance to meet the prerequisites, we offer foundation units that you can complete before you start your course.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

We believe university education should be an option for everyone, no matter your background. If your ability to access or participate in education has been affected by circumstances beyond your control, you can apply for special consideration as part of your application. We will consider a range of factors, including economic hardship, a serious medical condition, or disability.

We can only approve applications for special consideration if we are confident that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in your studies. If your application is not approved, the University admissions team will work with you to find the best alternative pathway to your chosen course. Special consideration is not available for international applicants.

COURSE PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS 

This course includes compulsory Work Integrated Learning (professional experience placements). In order to participate in placements, all students must:

  • Complete a Safe to Practice Agreement declaring they have the medical, physical or psychological capacity to safely participate in professional experience practice. 

English Language Requirements

This degree requires an IELTS (Academic) of 6.0, with no individual band less than 5.5, or a PTE Academic score of 50, with no score lower than 42 or equivalent.

For students who do not meet the English Language Requirement through citizenship or prior studies in English in an approved country, evidence of an approved English language test completed within the last 2 years must be provided.

See the English Language Requirements page for more information.

General Entry Requirements

Admission to undergraduate courses at the University of Tasmania requires the completion of qualifications equivalent to a year 12 education in Australia.

Please review the equivalent undergraduate entry requirements to see the minimum requirement relevant to your country. The ATAR information for this course is located in the “For Domestic Students” section of the entry requirements on this page.

You can also meet the General Entry Requirement for this course with the following qualifications or prior studies:

  • Completion of an equivalent AQF Certificate IV or above
  • Complete or incomplete (minimum 25 credit points) of previous tertiary study at Diploma level or higher

Course Specific Requirements

These prerequisites (by major) apply to students from all educational backgrounds.

To be an eligible for an offer, you must have completed studies or have experience equivalent to a satisfactory achievement in the following Tasmanian Senior Secondary subjects:

Major

Prerequisite Senior Secondary Studies

Marine and Antarctic Governance

Nil

Marine Biology

Biology (BIO315124) OR Chemistry (CHM415115) OR Physics (PHY415115) OR equivalent 

AND

General Mathematics (MTG315123) OR equivalent 

Sustainable Fisheries

Nil

Oceans, Ice and Climate

Mathematics Methods (MTM415117) or equivalent 

and

Physical Sciences (PSC315118) OR equivalent 

Sustainable Aquaculture

Nil

You can enquire online for information on interstate and international equivalents to the Tasmanian senior secondary subject above. If you need assistance to meet the prerequisites, we offer foundation units that you can complete before you start your course.

COURSE PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS 

This course includes compulsory Work Integrated Learning (professional experience placements). In order to participate in placements, all students must:

  • Complete a Safe to Practice Agreement declaring they have the medical, physical or psychological capacity to safely participate in professional experience practice. 

How to apply for a credit transfer

Applications for credit can be made in your course application. Find out more information about how to apply for a credit transfer/advanced standing at Recognition of Prior Learning.

Talk to us on 13 8827 or enquire online about your credit transfer.

If you successfully complete this course, you may be also be eligible to apply for a range of other postgraduate courses including Graduate Certificates and Graduate Diplomas and Masters by coursework and research.

If you haven't completed the required pre-requisite unit(s), we offer foundation units to help you bridge the gap. Many run in spring and summer school so you can meet a prerequisite and not delay the start of your Bachelor level studies. HECS scholarships may also be available for domestic students.

 

Alternate prerequisite relevant UTAS units

Marine Biology

Introduction to Chemistry [KRA161]

and

Applied Mathematics Foundation [KMA002]* 

* or Introduction to University Mathematics [KMA100] will be accepted

Oceans, Ice and Climate

Introduction to University Mathematics [KMA100]

And

Introductory Physics [KYA103] 

If you aren’t eligible for an offer to this course, you should consider enrolment in the Diploma of University Studies (Science Specialisation) or the University Preparation Program.

In all cases, contact us to discuss an option best suited to your needs.

Detailed admissions information and advice for all undergraduate courses, including comprehensive, course-level student profiles, is available from UTAS Admissions.

Fees & scholarships

Domestic students

Commonwealth supported places (CSP) are available for this course. For eligible domestic students, this means your fees will be subsidised by the Australian Government. You’ll only need to pay the student contribution amount for each unit you study within the course.

Commonwealth Supported Place indicative annual fee: $9,074

How is this calculated?

This is an estimate. The calculation is based on the average full-time enrolment for this course in 2026. All figures are indicative only for 2027. Actual tuition fees will depend on specific unit enrolment, and are subject to annual increases each year. You can find the complete fee details for each unit of study on the individual unit pages. The units for this course are found in the course structure section of this page.

These figures do not include other costs such as the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF). For further information, please visit Scholarships, fees and costs.

HECS-HELP loans

You may be able to defer payment of the student contribution amount by accessing a HECS-HELP loan from the Government. If eligible, you’ll only have to pay your tuition fees once you start earning above a specific amount.

Further information on student loans and a CSP eligibility checker can be found at Australian Government Study Assist.

International students

2027 annual international student tuition fee: $49,950 AUD

The standard year of study for this course is 100 credit points.

Indicative total tuition fee for international students: $ 157,467 AUD.

This total tuition fee is indicative only. Please visit fees and costs for further information on how this is calculated.

International students are charged the Student Services and Amenities Fee but this fee is incorporated in the annual rate. International students do not have to make any additional SSAF payments.

Domestic scholarships

Scholarships for domestic students

Each year, the University offers more than 900 awards to students from all walks of life, including: those who have achieved high academic results, those from low socio-economic backgrounds, students with sporting ability, students undertaking overseas study, and students with a disability.

For more information refer to Scholarships, fees and costs.

Applications for most awards commencing in Semester 1 open at the beginning of August and close strictly on 31 October in the year prior to study.

Scholarships for international students

There are a huge range of scholarships, bursaries and fee discounts available for international students studying at the University of Tasmania. For more information refer to International Scholarships.

Catalyst Program

Want to combine your degree with overseas trips, summer research programs, scholarships and special events? Our Catalyst Program offers domestic high achieving school leavers all this and more.

All domestic students with an ATAR of 90 or greater, enrolled in a range of STEM courses will be awarded a $3,000 Catalyst Scholarship. Across the program students can access scholarships of up to $14,500 in value, and gain experience that will make you stand out in your chosen field. Learn more about the Catalyst Program

Course year 2027

View 2026 course information

View 2025 course information

View previous years course information

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Do you have any questions about choosing a course or applying? Get in touch.

Domestic

13 8827 (13 UTAS)

International

+61 3 6226 6200

Email

Course.Info@utas.edu.au

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