Marine biology is a field of study that deals with life in the ocean and similar environments. A career in marine biology might be a rewarding prospect for someone enamored by the variety of organisms that live in the sea. Marine biologists work on studying these environments, life underwater, the threats to it, and how the activities of humans affect the marina.
Surrounded by the ocean, Indonesia is the largest country in the world, entirely made up of islands. The Indonesian archipelago has over 17,000 islands, making it an ideal spot to study marine life. Here, we list the best universities in the country to study marine biology.
Top Schools Offering Marine Biology Programs in Indonesia
For international students looking for programs in hydrogeology, oceanography, aquatic science, and marine ecology, Indonesia could be a promising haven. The beautiful country not only supports expatriates but also has a cost of living and tuition fees that could entice any international student. Below, we list 5 universities in the country that could interest you for your education in marine biology.
1. Brawijaya University
The University of Brawijaya was established in 1963 and is one of the widely recognized institutions in Indonesia. The QS World Rankings of 2024 placed the university between 801 and 850 among other world-recognized universities.
At this university’s Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources Management, programs are offered in aquaculture and marine science, two closely related fields. There are undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs offered at the University of Brawijaya, all in English.
2. Bandung Institute of Technology
Bandung Institute of Technology is one of the top public universities in Indonesia. Offering undergraduate to doctoral programs taught entirely in English, this national research institute is highly welcoming of international students.
The institute has shown excellence and is recognized globally. The Oceanography study program offered here has been locally accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Higher Education and internationally by ASIIN, a Germany-based higher education quality-assuring agency.
Students who follow this Oceanography program can work in multiple industries, including tourism, the fishing industry, marine administration, and more.
3. Diponegoro University
- Study Program
- Degree/s Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D. | Medium of Instruction: English
Diponegoro University is ranked 7th in Indonesia by QS University, offering several programs in various departments. Most programs are accredited and recognized internationally by organizations like ASIIN, FIBAA, BAN-PT, and ABEST 21.
The university’s student body is also large, producing over 45,000 undergraduates across fields. The school is well integrated into the global market and affiliated with universities worldwide, mostly in Australia, China, and Denmark.
At the University of Diponegoro, you can find courses in Aquaculture, Marine Science, and Oceanography that share some commonalities. It can be helpful to read each course outline to decide if a program perfectly aligns with your career goals for the future.
4. Gadjah Mada University
- Study Program
- Degree/s Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D. | Medium of Instruction: Bahasa Indonesian
Offering 200+ undergraduate programs 45 master’s and doctoral programs, Gadjah Mada University is a research institute in Indonesia that welcomes students from across the globe. The university boasts a high standard of education, modern infrastructure, and up-to-date facilities, making it a world-class research university.
Gadjah Mada University was named 1st of the best universities in the country back in 2021 by the Ministry of Education and Culture of the Republic of Indonesia, a title that reflects its academic excellence.
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate programs in the biology faculty. Students are to select from a set of compulsory sources and elective courses. Marine Biology is one of the options among the elective courses that undergraduates can major in.
5. Bogor Agricultural University
Bogor Agricultural University is known for its dominance in agricultural and environmental sciences. You might find their programs in relevant fields interesting as an international student. The university’s study programs are accredited internationally by agencies, including IMarEST in England.
The university’s Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences offers multiple programs in fields like Marine Science and Technology, Aquatic Resource Management, and Aquaculture. The Bachelor’s in Marine Science and Technology program focuses on understanding the sea’s physical, chemical, and biological geology.
FAQS About Studying Marine Biology in Indonesia
Is Pursuing a Degree in Marine Biology Worth It?
With the consistent evolution of technology, many jobs are being replaced by AI on the technological front. Jobs in science and research consistently require a human touch to function, so we think that Marine Biology is a field of study that will not die down for decades.
Pursuing a degree in marine biology is worth it regardless of where you live and plan to work. Biologists are in demand around the world and doing experiments inside a lab isn’t just what they are made for.
With the recognition Indonesia has for its marine life, a career after study in marine biology seems like a realistic plan of action. Since, there is no threat to the industry, pursuing marine biology in Indonesia is deemed an endeavor worth the hassle.
Marine biology is a field of study with a guaranteed return on investment, especially in Indonesia. Multiple programs are interrelated in the industry.
We hope this article helped you find the best program at a university that you like. Visit the Asia Scholarships Page to learn more about universities and scholarships in Asia!
