The Two Oceans Aquarium is bringing Marine Sciences to the classroom, giving students real, practical ocean experience through a Grades 10 to 12 course that replaces a regular subject with hands-on exploration of marine life.
Here’s everything students and parents need to know.
What is Marine Sciences?
High school students who love the ocean and the creatures within it can take Marine Sciences as a real, accredited Grade 10 to 12 subject, and applications are open now. The Aquarium’s experienced Ocean Campus team wrote the syllabus, with approval from Umalusi and the Department of Basic Education, giving learners a deep understanding of marine biology, oceanography, ecosystems, and our relationship with the oceans.
Classes are run online, with self-assessments, live tutorials, and even hands-on practical experiences at the Aquarium, allowing students to get up close and personal with the ocean’s fascinating inhabitants.
The course covers a variety of marine-related subjects, from the physics, chemistry, and geography of the ocean to the fundamental biology of sea life and much more. Students learn how humans impact the aquatic world around us (and vice versa) and receive an overview of marine careers so they can plan their future in oceanography and beyond. The curriculum document is available online.
Similar to other school subjects, students must commit to at least four hours of instruction per week, excluding time for homework and assignments. Students take examinations at official exam centres, and they can attend practical classes on weekends or public holidays. Students must have achieved a minimum of 60% in Natural Science and a minimum of 50% in Maths, and submit their Grade 9 results. No other subjects are required, although Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Geography help learners understand Marine Sciences.
How to apply
Marine Sciences is an approved, extensive school subject that gives learners a deeper understanding of the world around them, how we affect it, and what can be done to improve our environment. With many of South Africa’s top universities offering courses and pathways into the marine world, it’s an accredited way for students to kick-start their career learning, applying, and working with the ocean and its inhabitants.
Parents can find more information on the website, fill in the registration form, and contact Aquarium staff at [email protected] with any questions. The cost for studying Marine Sciences in 2027 is TBD.
When: Classes start in January 2027 | Exact hours & times are yet to be announced
Where: Two Oceans Aquarium, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Website: www.aquarium.co.za
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @2oceansaquarium
Facebook: @TwoOceansAquarium
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