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MarineReady
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What is MarineReady?
MarineReady introduces high school students to marine science, aquatic environments and real-world marine studies contexts through engaging, interactive learning experiences.
MarineReady is an exciting university pathway program that provides students the opportunity to explore the culture of academic enquiry and the conventions of written communication at university, in relation to marine studies. The program develops essential academic skills, including critical thinking, research, academic reading and writing, digital and information literacy, academic integrity, and self-management.
Designed to build confidence, capability, and future readiness, MarineReady helps students develop the knowledge and skills needed for success at university and beyond.
Students who successfully complete MarineReady and Year 12 are guaranteed entry into Southern Cross University’s Diploma of Science, providing a direct pathway into further study and a range of science-related careers.
MarineReady is available to Year 10, 11 and 12 students at New South Wales partner schools.
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How is MarineReady delivered?
MarineReady is a fee-free program delivered at partner schools by teachers and supported by Southern Cross University academics
Taught over 15 weeks across two school terms, MarineReady allows students to engage with university-level learning while remaining in their familiar school environment. Students participate in classroom learning, complete interactive online modules, and undertake assessments.
Southern Cross University provides schools with a comprehensive teaching package, including curriculum resources, assessment materials, a dedicated Blackboard learning site, and access to university services and resources.
Students are enrolled with Southern Cross University and can access university facilities and support services, including library databases and careers and employability resources. This school-based delivery model helps students experience university study, develop academic skills, and build confidence for future tertiary education.
How much does MarineReady cost?
MarineReady is fee free.
School FAQs
To register your school as a MarineReady partner school, please complete the online registration form located at the top of this page. For your convenience, the form can also be found here. Once your registration has been submitted, a member of the MarineReady team will be in touch to arrange an initial meeting with your school.
MarineReady is fee-free for students and for schools.
MarineReady teachers receive access to resources, program guidance, and ongoing support from the MarineReady team throughout implementation and delivery of the program. Teachers will have access to the Southern Cross University Blackboard learning site.
MarineReady was developed through a partnership between Southern Cross University and Ballina Coast High School. MarineReady provides students with a unique blend of university preparation and marine science education. Through interactive learning experiences, students develop valuable academic skills while exploring real-world marine science concepts. Real marine science data and research are provided by researchers from the National Marine Science Centre.
Benefits for Students
Prepare for University
Start your learning journey as a marine scientist and gain confidence and the required skills for successful university study.
Marine Science Research
Work with real marine science data and research provided by experts in the field, including the National Marine Science Centre.
Direct Pathway to Uni
Successful completion of MarineReady provides a direct pathway into the SCU Diploma of Science. No need to apply via Early Offer or UAC.
Support and Guidance
You will work through interactive learning modules with guidance from your MarineReady teacher every step of the way.
Student FAQs
You can apply for MarineReady if you are a Year 10, 11 or 12 student enrolled at a partner school that offers the program. MarineReady is currently available only in New South Wales schools to Australian citizens and Permanent Residents. If you are unsure about your citizenship or residency status, speak with your teacher or contact SCUAdvance@scu.edu.au for advice.
Eligible students receive a MarineReady application form from their school. The application process is completed online and involves your school, your parent or caregiver, and Southern Cross University.
Southern Cross University may contact students, parents, caregivers or teachers if additional information is required. Once all documentation has been received and assessed, eligible students will receive an offer with instructions on how to accept their place in the program.
No. MarineReady supports students interested in many careers including environmental science, teaching, tourism, fisheries, sustainability, research, diving, and conservation.
To complete MarineReady, you must attend classes, complete independent study and submit all assessment tasks. Classes are scheduled through your school, and students should also allow time for independent study and assessment preparation.
To pass MarineReady, you must submit all assessment tasks and achieve at least 50% overall.
MarineReady is fee-free. There is no cost for students.
MarineReady is a directly pathway to the Diploma of Science. Students who successfully complete MarineReady will receive a Certificate of Completion and a letter from Southern Cross University recognising your guaranteed pathway into the Diploma of Science.
In September of Year 12, you will receive an official offer into the Southern Cross University Diploma of Science.
The Diploma of Science is pathway into the Bachelor of Science, and you can progress straight into the second year of the bachelor course.
Yes. If you are in Year 11 or Year 12 and your school does not offer MarineReady, there may be other Southern Cross University programs available to you such as Southern Cross Scholars or UniStart. Contact SCUAdvance@scu.edu.au to discuss the options that best suit your circumstances.