This new field of study will provide students with the opportunity to specialise in tropical marine science in a collaborative program which takes advantage of the expertise and facilities available at the University of Queensland, James Cook University, University of Sydney and the Australian Museum.

The National Degree incorporates many unique features, such as:

• Advanced learning through enabling students to take advantage of expertise from several institutions;
• Unparalleled experience of the marine environment across more than 10^o of latitude and across environments ranging from coastal to outer reef;
• Experience of other study and research institutions through visits to collaborating Universities and research stations.

Students initially enrol at one of the three "home" universities, and undertake the first three semesters of study in biology plus a selection of chemistry, mathematics, physics or other relevant courses within the normal guidelines of each institution's Bachelor of Science program. Each institution will ensure that a similar suite of core courses are offered which provide appropriate grounding for the field of study.

Students graduate with a three-year BSc degree from their home institution which fulfils the requirements of that institution's own program rules, and which also meets the common requirements of the Tropical Marine Science field of study. For example, the University of Queensland students' degree certificate will be Bachelor of Science in the field of Tropical Marine Science.

The Commonwealth Bank is extremely proud to be investing in the education of young Australians dedicated to supporting and preserving our fragile marine environment. The Commonwealth Bank has been actively contributing to the Australian community since it commenced operations in 1912. The Bank combines the work of our community partners and our people to achieve social outcomes and improve the communities in which we live and operate. Our partnership with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, which enables the Tropical Marine Network to run Coral Futures, links our longstanding commitment to the education of young Australians and brings the Bank closer to the communities it serves.   Bank support for the Foundation extends to the ZooX™Fund, and as one of the Founding Patrons, we hope to demonstrate in a tangible way our larger commitment to preserving this powerful yet vulnerable environmental icon. We also hope to stimulate broader public interest in Australia’s future researchers and their critical role in preserving the Great Barrier Reef for all time.