Marine Biology Course with Field Research Experience

About Our Premier Marine Biology Course with Field Research in South Africa

Our marine biology program is built around real-world field research, giving participants the opportunity to work in dynamic marine environments while developing practical research skills. Through structured projects and guided fieldwork, participants gain direct exposure to marine ecosystems and contribute to ongoing research initiatives.

Oceans Research’s marine biology course offers aspiring scientists and conservationists the opportunity to gain practical field research experience alongside leading marine biologists. Participants actively contribute to marine biology research, studying the diverse marine fauna of southern Africa, including great white sharks.

This field-based marine biology research program is recognised by many international universities, with students eligible to receive up to a full semester’s academic credit for one month of intensive, practical training.

Our marine biology program provide first-hand experience in marine research and conservation, making it suitable for students, graduates, and international enthusiasts looking to build practical skills in the field.

The research conducted by our institute is interdisciplinary, spanning biological, ecological, and socio-economic studies of marine and terrestrial ecosystems. As part of this marine biology research and field-based course, participants engage in long-term projects such as shark population assessments and habitat use studies, alongside marine mammal bioacoustics and biodiversity monitoring.

These projects are designed to develop practical field research skills, including the use of BRUVs, ROVs, and drones for marine research and monitoring. Participants also gain hands-on experience in vessel operations, equipment handling, and ethical fishing practices used in tagging and studying marine species.

In addition, students apply their research knowledge through conservation and education initiatives, contributing to local community awareness programs and gaining a broader understanding of marine resource management.

Projects & Activities

Population dynamic studies of white sharks, other sharks, dolphins and whales
Trophic and movement ecology of sharks and marine mammals
Predator-prey behavioural strategies of white sharks and Cape fur seals
Shark stress physiology and behavioural studies
Bioacoustics Research and how to analyse sounds
Intertidal community assessment
Marine Debris and Plastic Pollution Surveys
Marine Mammal Stranding Response workshop
Science Communication Course
Get a SCUBA OWD, AOWD or RD certification included

*Some projects are seasonal

Furthermore, you may:

Gain course credits at university
Obtain data for thesis/project at university

Learning & Skill Sets

Seamanship and research vessel operations
Ethical fishing for research: best practices for catch, tag & release to monitor fish populations
Learn to deploy and operate Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) equipment, Remote Operated Vehicles (ROV) and drones, to subsequently answer specific research questions through analysis of video data
Gain experience in how to best maintain research boats and scientific equipment