Someone who is awed by the ocean’s mysteries may have considered a career in marine biology. Marine biology deals with life in the sea and other saltwater ecosystems. Professionals in the field study marine life, marine environments, threats to aquatic organisms, and the impact of humans on them.
Boasting a rich variety of marine life, South Africa can be an excellent study destination for future marine biologists. In this article, we’ll go through some of the country’s best schools that offer international students marine biology, marine science, oceanography, or closely related aquatic-science programs.
Top Schools Offering Marine Biology Programs in South Africa
A wide array of subjects, including aquatic science, zoology, ecology, marine science, and oceanography, are offered in universities in South Africa. Here are some schools where you can pursue undergraduate or postgraduate study in marine biology or closely related fields.
1. University of Cape Town
Widely recognized as one of the leading universities in South Africa, the University of Cape Town is one of the best locations for international students to study comprehensive programs in science. Located in the country’s legislative capital, Cape Town, the university is a leading higher education provider in the region and globally.
In the QS World University Rankings 2026, the University of Cape Town ranked 150th in the world. It also ranked first in the QS Sub-Saharan Africa University Rankings 2026.
The university offers a Bachelor of Science route in which students can study marine biology through biological sciences. Students who complete the undergraduate program may continue to honors, master’s, or doctoral study in relevant biological or marine-related fields.
2. Nelson Mandela University
Nelson Mandela University is a public university in South Africa, located in Gqeberha, formerly Port Elizabeth, and George. The university offers hands-on training across disciplines and provides programs from diplomas to postgraduate degrees.
Established in 2005 through the merger of three institutions, Nelson Mandela University has become one of South Africa’s major public universities. It is also recognized in current international ranking systems, including the QS Sub-Saharan Africa University Rankings.
A Master’s program is offered here at Nelson Mandela University titled “Master of Science in Biological Oceanography.” This research-based program is offered full-time and part-time and is intended for students with a Bachelor of Science Honours degree or an equivalent qualification. The degree is completed through a dissertation on an approved topic and can support career pathways related to marine biology, oceanography, botany, and zoology.
3. University of KwaZulu-Natal
Located against the scenic backdrop of KwaZulu-Natal, UKZN has multiple campuses that offer residential, research-led higher education programs for students. uShaka Marine World, described by the attraction as Africa’s largest aquarium and the largest aquarium in the Southern Hemisphere, is located in Durban, near the university.
The University of KwaZulu-Natal offers a three-year Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences at its Pietermaritzburg and Westville campuses. Students interested in marine biology can continue into a one-year Bachelor of Science Honours in Marine Biology, and the university also offers master’s and doctoral pathways in related biological sciences, including marine biology.
4. Cape Peninsula University of Technology
The largest university in the Western Cape, CPUT is one of the best-known universities of technology in South Africa that welcomes international students. It is located close to the western coast of South Africa, giving students access to marine environments that can support learning in the field.
The Department of Conservation and Marine Sciences offers programs connected with marine and conservation science. CPUT has more than 35,000 students, five campuses, three service points, and more than 70 career-focused programs.
The programs offered at CPUT that focus on ocean life include a Diploma in Marine Science, an Advanced Diploma in Marine Science, a Postgraduate Diploma in Marine Science, and a Master of Marine Science.
5. University of the Witwatersrand
The University of the Witwatersrand is a public university in Johannesburg, an economic powerhouse of the African continent. Over the years, the university has made major contributions to applied sciences and research in fundamental science.
The Master of Science in Hydrogeology offered here is not a marine biology degree, but it may interest students who want to study water systems, groundwater, and environmental science. The program is offered over one year full-time or two years part-time. Applicants are expected to have either a postgraduate diploma or a Bachelor of Science with Honors from a relevant science field such as physics, chemistry, mathematics, or geology.
Among the notable figures associated with this prestigious institution is Nelson Mandela, an honorary Doctor of Laws recipient, Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and former president of South Africa. Having produced many notable professionals in other industries, the university still stands as one of the best-recognized educational institutions in South Africa.
FAQS About Studying Marine Biology in South Africa
Is Pursuing a Degree in Marine Biology Worth It?
Even if there is little or no exposure to marine environments in your home country or wherever you are based, a degree in marine biology can open multiple career pathways. Therefore, pursuing a marine biology degree can be worth it for students who are passionate about marine life and willing to build the scientific and fieldwork skills needed for the profession.
South Africa is known for its rich marine ecosystems, so planning a career in the country after your studies may be appealing for students interested in marine biodiversity, conservation, and ocean science. English is also widely used in South African higher education, which can make the study experience more accessible for many international students.
Pursuing a marine biology career is worth considering for someone passionate about marine life. Of the places you could choose for your higher education, South Africa is a strong option because of its access to Atlantic, Indian, and Southern Ocean marine systems.
Hopefully, this article has been informative. You may also be interested in this article about the best countries to study marine biology abroad!
