Over 80% of the ocean remains unexplored, making it one of the least understood environments on Earth. If you want to gain a deep understanding of the oceans and the complex challenges they face, whether for professional or personal development, this course is ideal for you.
The Certificate of Marine Biology is a professional development course that explores marine conservation, fisheries management, and ecosystem restoration.
In this marine biology course, you will explore the diversity of the oceans, the environments that support them, classification systems, functions of marine life and how this fascinating science is crucial in addressing global challenges.
You will explore the physical and chemical factors that shape ocean life, including zones of the sea, light, temperature, salinity, tides, and currents. You will also learn about core ecosystems, including feeding, migration, communication, and reproduction, as well as how organisms drive the productivity and resilience of marine systems.
On completion of this course, you will have a comprehensive understanding of marine ecosystems, conservation and sustainability.
Course Structure
Certificate of Marine Biology
Unit 1: Introduction to Marine Biology
- What is marine biology?
- Why marine biology matters?
- The scope of marine biology
- Classifications in marine biology
- Taxonomy
- Marine examples
- Key terms
- History of marine biology
- Marine biology tools and methods
- Modern tools and technology
- Marine biology and global issues
Unit 2: Ocean Environments and Physical Factors
- Ocean environments
- Horizontal zones
- The intertidal
- Vertical zones
- Pelagic and Benthic zones
- Life on the sea floor
- Light in the ocean
- Ocean temperature
- Ocean salinity
- Ocean nutrients
- Ocean chemistry
- Currents, tides, and waves
- Light and nutrients
- Food chains and food webs
- Productive coasts and oceanic deserts
Unit 3: Microorganisms and the Base of the Food Web
- Marine microorganisms
- Phytoplankton
- Zooplankton
- Bacteria and archaea in marine systems
- Marine viruses
- Microbial interactions and symbiosis
- Phytoplankton blooms
Unit 4: Marine Plants and Invertebrates
- Marine algae, plants, and invertebrates
- Seaweeds
- Mangroves
- Seagrasses and mangroves
- Saltmarsh plants
- Marine invertebrates
- Marine ecosystems
- Adaptations for survival
- Plant and algae habitat formers
- Invertebrates shaping environments
- The Great Barrier Reef
Unit 5: Marine Vertebrates
- Introduction to vertebrates
- Fish
- Marine reptiles
- Seabirds
- Marine mammals
- Adaptations
- Breathing and oxygen
- Movement and buoyancy
- Thermoregulation
- Salt and water balance
- Senses and communication
- Feeding and migration
- Reproduction
- Ecological roles
Unit 6: Marine Ecosystems
- Marine ecosystems
- Coral reefs
- Mangroves
- Kelp forests
- Seagrass meadows
- Deep-sea ecosystems
- Polar seas
- Productivity and biodiversity
- Coral bleaching
- Resilience and recovery
- Human support for recovery
Unit 7: Conservation and Applied Marine Biology
- Marine conservation
- Threats to marine life
- Tools and approaches
- Protecting habitats
- Managing fisheries sustainably
- Restoring damaged ecosystems
- Successes and challenges
- Future of marine biology
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Printed Materials – Free to Print
Course materials for this program are available to print at no extra cost.
Approval and Recognition
Australian Online Courses Pty Ltd is an approved and recognised member of IARC. The IARC is an International association that recognises quality and excellence in tertiary education providers.
Testimonials
Click to See What Our Students Say
I never felt rushed or the need to rush through any of the assignments, was always able to work at my own pace.
When I need help with any questions the Tutors were able to help me with the questions and explain what needed to be done in a very supportive and helpful way.
Very easy way to gain knowledge and the information provided was easy to learn
M. Harcla-Goody, Palm Beach, QLD | Certificate of Marine Biology
Very good content. I learned a lot. I have now enrolled my son in a course.
C. Millar, Five Dock, NSW | Certificate of Marine Biology
Such a great experience. I felt no stress with completing things on time, plus the constant support from educators I was so happy.
R. Coster, Perth, WA | Certificate of Marine Biology
I found the lessons and notes very in depth, as well as requiring a decent amount of time invested into fully studying and answering the questions to gain a proper understanding, which I very much enjoyed. I am also immensely appreciative and grateful for the extensions I was granted due to various circumstances I experienced throughout the course. The staff I spoke with were always very friendly, clear, and ready to help.
I.Mediero, Melbourne, VIC | Certificate of Marine Biology
Really good, it’s really great to have a tutor on board with what you are achieving and they give great help in feedback and support.
Isabelle | Noraville, NSW | Certificate of Marine Biology
I found the information/reading easy to understand and it was great to add my personal experience added to the questions.
Judith | Bonbeach, VIC | Certificate of Marine Biology
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrolment Form – Employment Services and Rehabilitation Providers
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY, Bank Transfer and Afterpay. Please allow 1-2 Business days for processing for BPAY, Bank Transfer and Afterpay.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Afterpay: Within 1-2 working days
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional Development for:-
- Biologists
- Scuba Divers
- Marine Professionals
- Marine Park Workers
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