The Major
The Aquaculture and Fisheries Technology major offers a number of aquatic and marine-related subjects with opportunities for developing both theoretical and practical skills.
Laboratory training is supplemented with instruction on board the department’s teaching and research vessel, the Captain Bert.
Requirements
All students admitted to the University of Rhode Island are eligible to major in Aquaculture and Fisheries Technology.
The program requires:
9 credits (minimum) introductory professional courses
6-8 credits animal and plant biology
4 credits general chemistry
4 additional credits general or organic chemistry
9-12 credits additional approved basic science courses
A total of 24 credits of concentration courses is required at the 300 level or above, of which 18 credits must be in fisheries-aquaculture (AFS)
36 credits must be in approved supporting elective courses.
Fisheries labs take place at East Farm on Route 108. Transportation is provided for outdoor and off-site laboratories.
Academic Options
Students may elect to concentrate in aquaculture, fisheries science, fisheries technology, or nautical science. Concentrations in aquaculture and fisheries science can be tailored to prepare students for entry into graduate school.
Internships are available for in-depth experience in fish hatchery operations and fisheries management.
Career Opportunities
A variety of professional and technial careers are available in government service, the military, and in the private sector. The program also prepares students for further professional training in graduate school.
Representative careers in fisheries include fisheries biologist, marine fisheries specialist, fisheries development consultant, fisheries advisory specialist, commercial fisherman, and fishing gear technician.
Aquaculture careers include: fish hatchery biologist, fish farm operator, and others. Persons trained in aquaculture and fisheries may also teach in colleges, in public outreach settings, in museums and aquaria, and in elementary and secondary educational settings.
Further Studies
Students planning to work in research or as an educator should attend graduate school. These students should work towards obtaining a strong background in the basic sciences.
