The Bachelor of Science (BSc) at the University of Otago is a three-year undergraduate degree that enables students to develop their interests in a science subject (science major) and related subjects. 

In addition, students have the flexibility to combine their major subject with other science subjects, as well as topics from different disciplines across the University.

Take the plunge

Stretching over 30° of latitude, New Zealand’s coastline is more than 15,000km long, and its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) is one of the largest in the world. 

And yet our understanding of our own big blue backyard and our impact on it is extremely limited.

The physical and biological processes that power the Earth system unite in the ocean, determining Earth’s climate, supporting life, and sparking our curiosity. 

Whether it’s finding new species, protecting sensitive habitats, or solving our climate change problems, the University of Otago is uniquely placed to study these interlinked processes and their effects on our lives.

Understanding our ocean planet is essential for meeting the challenges of our collective future.

Why study Marine Science?

The world is waking up to just how important the marine environment is to the survival of our planet. 

And when your office extends to the seashore and beyond, every day is a new challenge! 

A qualification in Marine Science from the University of Otago is internationally recognized, and its multidisciplinary nature opens up an ocean of opportunities.

• Academic Transcripts
• Educational Credential Evaluators report (ECE) (If required)
• Proof of your identity (Full name, date of birth, and nationality)
• Certified/notarised copy (passport or birth certificate)
• English Language Proficiency (If Available)

Undergraduate entrance requirements

The university recognizes many other qualifications as equivalent to the New Zealand qualification for entrance. 

To check if the university recognizes your previous studies, determine the country where you gained the qualification. Countries entrance requirements example:

China entrance requirements:

Senior High School graduation and one year of successful study at a recognized institution of university standing; 
Or Senior High School graduation and completion of a diploma with high passing grades at a recognized institute or university.

Students with the requisite scores in Gaokao may be given direct entry to bachelor degree programme.

India entrance requirements:

Minimum overall average of 75% in the All India Senior School Examination (CBSE) or Indian School Certificate Examination (CISCE) with a minimum of 70% in English.

The scores are calculated on the best four academic subjects excluding local languages and non-academic subjects.

Iran entrance requirements:

One year of successful study at a recognized institution of university standing, or successful completion of a University of Otago Foundation Year programme or equivalent.

The university also accepts the following international qualifications:

• International Baccalaureate: IB Diploma with a minimum of 24 points.
• Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) GCE Advanced Levels: minimum Numerical Score of 8.
• Northern Consortium United Kingdom (NCUK) International Foundation Year (IFY)
• Satisfactory completion of one year's study at a recognized tertiary institution.

Background required

Students from a wide range of backgrounds are welcome to study Marine Science. You will need an interest in the marine environment and a solid foundation in science to the Year 13 level. 

The university particularly recommends Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Statistics or Calculus.

Pathway programme

Study in your chosen subject area and gain a university entrance qualification

The University of Otago Pathway programme offers a university entrance qualification within two 13-week semesters for domestic and international students. It is called the Foundation Studies Certificate (FSC).