Masters Degrees (Aquaculture)

Introduction

The Institute of Aquaculture is one of a handful of institutions world-wide wholly devoted to aquaculture science and is the only university department of its kind in the UK. The Institute is internationally recognised for both research and teaching and has more than 70 staff and 80 postgraduate students.

Our goal is to develop and promote sustainable aquaculture and in pursuit of this carry out research across most areas of aquaculture science including:
- Reproduction and Genetics
- Health Management
- Nutrition
- Environmental Management
- Aquaculture Systems and International Development

Key information

- Degree type: Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, MSc
- Study methods: Full-time
- Start date: September The course is available on a block-release basis (by selecting individual or a series of modules) over a period not exceeding five academic years.
- Course Director: Dr Trevor Telfer

Course objectives

Students will attain background knowledge in the principles of aquaculture and key factors influencing viability of aquatic animal production systems, including an understanding of aquatic animal biology, environmental issues, nutrition, reproduction and genetics, disease and health management.
The course provides advanced knowledge in chosen areas from; advanced broodstock management, aquaculture policy and planning, livelihoods analysis, geographic information systems, environmental management and biodiversity, feed formulation and resources, economics, marketing and business studies, shrimp culture, aquaculture engineering, aquatic animal health control, epidemiology, and ecotoxicology.
Students will be able to appraise aquaculture operations and contribute to management decision making. The student will have the skills necessary to establish, manage and appraise aquaculture enterprises and development projects from within the industry or public sector.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:
- IELTS: 6.0 with 5.5 minimum in each skill
- Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): Grade C
- Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): Grade C
- Pearson Test of English (Academic): 54 with 51 in each component
- IBT TOEFL: 80 with no subtest less than 17

For more information go to English language requirements https://www.stir.ac.uk/study-in-the-uk/entry-requirements/english/

If you don’t meet the required score you may be able to register for one of our pre-sessional English courses. To register you must hold a conditional offer for your course and have an IELTS score 0.5 or 1.0 below the required standard. View the range of pre-sessional courses http://www.intohigher.com/uk/en-gb/our-centres/into-university-of-stirling/studying/our-courses/course-list/pre-sessional-english.aspx .

Structure and content

The MSc course at the Institute of Aquaculture is highly modularised and is designed to give considerable flexibility for learning, while maintaining a high standard of training. This structure allows students to make more subject choices which will benefit their future career and also have greater flexibility of learning over time. There is a number of degree outcomes available. These differ primarily in their defined path of required modules; specialised outcomes have more compulsory modules where the Sustainable Aquaculture degree has greater choice.

Delivery and assessment

In addition to lectures, tutorials and seminars, a number of assignments must be completed. Laboratory-based practical sessions and fieldwork are also important elements of the course. Taught module assessment is continuous, involving short tests, seminars, essays, practical reports, critical and computational analysis, field assignments and set project reports. The Research Project module is examined through written dissertation and seminar presentations by both examiners and the external examiner.

Why Stirling?

REF2014
In REF2014 Stirling was placed 6th in Scotland and 45th in the UK with almost three quarters of research activity rated either world-leading or internationally excellent.

Rating

The Institute of Aquaculture, with a rating of 2.45 in the latest Research Assessment Exercise (RAE), was graded the top aquaculture department in the UK.

Strengths

The Institute has been closely associated with the global expansion of aquaculture initially through developing and improving the existing production systems and the development of new farmed species.
In recent years our research has focused on increasing the sustainability and security of aquaculture development and practice, and improving the efficiency of utilising natural resources.
This gives out students the unique opportunity to be associated with these activities and obtain an insight into all aspects of aquacultural sciences and development worldwide.

Careers and employability

- Career opportunities
This course has run for over 30 years and has trained over 620 students from all over the world. The comprehensive nature of the course and our close links with UK and overseas industry allows good potential for employment in any aspect of commercial aquaculture. Approximately 30 percent of our students follow a direct route into industry.
Additionally, the course is an excellent grounding for research and further education, often building on the dissertation, and about 30 percent of graduates choose this route. Links with government departments throughout the world allow many of our graduates to establish careers in aquaculture development and aquaculture management in developing countries.

- Employability
We have designed our taught postgraduate courses so that, in addition to learning about your specialist discipline, you will be exposed to, and trained in, a number of skills which are not specific to aquaculture but which employers increasingly expect.
The majority of our MSc research projects are developed in association with industry and are aimed at solving problems for the aquaculture industry. We also have an informal internship programme with industry, which will involve suitable students in real commercial projects. In the past these have included: development projects in Thailand and Vietnam, investigating carrying capacity for Indonesian aquaculture, and working with aqua-treatments within the pharmaceutical industry.

- Industry connections
We work closely with the aquaculture industry in more than 20 countries, including every major company in Scotland, giving many of our students an opportunity to carry out industry-based research projects. During the course there are visits to various companies. Lectures and workshops in a number of modules are given by aquaculture professionals from Scotland.

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The Sustainable Aquaculture distance learning modular programme is taught part time via an online e-learning platform offering online tutorial support, direct email contact with tutors, video streams and access to student bulletin boards. This structure allows students the maximum flexibility to complete their studies while continuing in their employment.

Highlights

• Flexible modular e-learning allows students to complete their studies while continuing in their employment.
• The course uses an online e-learning platform with tutorial support, direct contact with tutors, video stream and access to student bulletin boards.

Teaching format

Classes are taught through a combination of weekly lectures and tutorials and are assessed through a combination of written examinations and coursework.

Further particulars regarding curriculum development.

Modules

The modules in this programme have varying methods of delivery and assessment. For more details of each module, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the latest module catalogue which is for the 2017–2018 academic year; some elements may be subject to change for 2018 entry.

• Aquaculture and Fisheries: the global importance of aquaculture and fisheries industries worldwide.
• Biology for Aquaculture: the fundamental biology, anatomy and physiology of both invertebrate and vertebrate aquaculture species. 
• Biology for Aquaculture Vertebrates: the fundamental biology, anatomy and physiology of vertebrate aquaculture species.
• Biology for Aquaculture Invertebrates: the fundamental biology, anatomy and physiology of either invertebrate aquaculture species. 
• Nutrition for Aquaculture: the anatomy, physiology and nutritional requirements of key fish and invertebrate species.
• Nutrition for Vertebrates: the anatomy, physiology and nutritional requirements of key fish.
• Nutrition for Invertebrates: the anatomy, physiology and nutritional requirements of invertebrate species.
• Management, Husbandry and Sustainability: production management and business management of modern aquaculture practices.
• Health and Disease: the factors that influence disease processes in cultured fish and invertebrates. 
• Health and Disease Vertebrates: the factors that influence disease processes in cultured fish.
• Health and Disease Invertebrates: the factors that influence disease processes in invertebrates.
• Markets, Products, Processing and Food Safety: advanced knowledge of aquaculture markets, products, processing and food safety.
• Local and Global Impacts of Aquaculture: the environmental impact of aquaculture practices on both local and global scales.
• Breeding and Genetics: selective breeding programmes and modern genetic techniques applied in aquaculture practices.
• Advanced Welfare and Ethics: the welfare and ethical issues raised by current aquaculture practices.
• Recirculation Aquaculture Systems: the use of recirculating aquaculture systems in modern aquaculture practices.
• Ornamental and Aquaria Production: advanced knowledge of animals produced for the ornamental and aquaria section of the aquaculture business.
• Larval Rearing: the larval production techniques used in the aquaculture business.

The modules listed here are indicative, and there is no guarantee they will run for 2018 entry. Take a look at the most up-to-date modules in the module catalogue.

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The Sustainable Aquaculture distance learning modular programme is taught part time via an online e-learning platform offering online tutorial support, direct email contact with tutors, video streams and access to student bulletin boards. This structure allows students the maximum flexibility to complete their studies while continuing in their employment.

This course can be studied on a modular basis, as a PGCert, PGDip or MSc.

Highlights

• Flexible modular e-learning allows students to complete their studies while continuing in their employment.
• The course uses an online e-learning platform with tutorial support, direct contact with tutors, video steam and access to student bulletin boards.

Teaching format

Both PGDip and MSc students take taught modules covering all aspects of aquaculture both vertebrate and invertebrate over an 18-month period. MSc students then spend the next six months researching and writing a dissertation of no more than 15,000 words to be submitted on a specified date at the end of the course.

Classes are taught through a combination of weekly lectures and tutorials and are assessed through a combination of written examinations and coursework. The course consists of a series of compulsory core modules and a choice of five optional modules matched to students’ specific interests.

Modules

The modules in this programme have varying methods of delivery and assessment. For more details of each module, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the latest module catalogue which is for the 2017–2018 academic year; some elements may be subject to change.

Core modules

• Aquaculture and Fisheries: the global importance of aquaculture and fisheries industries worldwide.
• Biology for Aquaculture: the fundamental biology, anatomy and physiology of both invertebrate and vertebrate aquaculture species. 
• Nutrition for Aquaculture: the anatomy, physiology and nutritional requirements of key fish and invertebrate species.
• Health and Disease: the factors that influence disease processes in cultured fish and invertebrates. 
• Management, Husbandry and Sustainability: production management and business management of modern aquaculture practices.
• Markets, Products, Processing and Food Safety: advanced knowledge of aquaculture markets, products, processing and food safety.
• Local and Global Impacts of Aquaculture: the environmental impact of aquaculture practices on both local and global scales.

Optional modules

• Advanced Welfare and Ethics
• Breeding and Genetics
• Larval Rearing
• Ornamental and Aquaria Production
• Recirculation Aquaculture Systems.

Research Dissertation

Students on the MSc programme complete a 15,000-word dissertation at the end of their studies. The dissertation involves the study of a defined problem within the field of sustainable aquaculture. Students are required to collate and analyse data and to discuss their results in the light of existing literature. In some cases, projects might also involve the design of experiments or the gathering of data. 

If students choose not to complete the dissertation requirement for the MSc, there is an exit award available that allows suitably qualified candidates to receive a Postgraduate Diploma. By choosing the exit award, you will finish your degree at the end of the taught portion of the programme and receive a PGDip instead of an MSc.

Careers

Graduates will typically pursue a career in higher level management, research and development or business development within the global aquaculture business.

The Careers Centre offers one-to-one advice to all students on a taught postgraduate course and offers a programme of events to assist students to build their employability skills.

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Introduction

As part of the highly flexible method of learning, the following degree outcomes are offered, all of which offer a route to an MSc, Postgraduate Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate qualification. All students will register for the degree in Sustainable Aquaculture in the first instance and be given the opportunity to change degree outcome at the end of the Foundation modules. All avenues to achieving your qualification are possible on a full-time or discontinuous basis to fit with your individual needs.

Key information

- Degree type: Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, MSc
- Study methods: Full-time
- Start date: September

Aquaculture and the Environment

Environmental management of aquaculture to enhance sustainability is becoming ever more important. The MSc course in Aquaculture and the Environment provides flexible learning opportunities to acquire and extend the knowledge and expertise to develop environmental assessment strategies, management systems and regulation frameworks for the aquaculture industry or development projects throughout the world.
The course is modularised, so SCQF credits can be accumulated (at the end of each assessed module) towards a postgraduate qualification. As a student of Aquaculture and the Environment, there are three compulsory advanced topics of study: Environmental Management; Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing; Biodiversity and Sustainable Development. The student must also complete a research project in a field relevant to the degree outcome.

The environment’s role in aquaculture and the impact of aquaculture on the environment are of concern to both producers and environmentalists alike. The Aquaculture and the Environment programme aims to provide appropriate and flexible learning opportunities through which students can acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to develop environmental assessment and management systems, environmental regulation frameworks for the aquaculture industry and contribute to worldwide development initiatives.

A series of 6 foundation level topics will equip you with the core skills needed to understand aquatic animal biology and physiology, welfare and health management, reproduction and genetics, environmental requirements and management, production systems and economics, and nutrition requirements and food safety. Our links with various commercial industries in Scotland facilitate a study tour which will give you the opportunity to experience the range of practices in the UK aquaculture industry. The advanced topics offer you the opportunity to engage with a wider range of activities within the aquaculture sector. As a student of Aquaculture and the Environment, there are 3 compulsory advanced topics and a choice of 3 from 10 possible advanced topics.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:
- IELTS: 6.0 with 5.5 minimum in each skill
- Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): Grade C
- Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): Grade C
- Pearson Test of English (Academic): 54 with 51 in each component
- IBT TOEFL: 80 with no subtest less than 17

For more information go to English language requirements https://www.stir.ac.uk/study-in-the-uk/entry-requirements/english/

If you don’t meet the required score you may be able to register for one of our pre-sessional English courses. To register you must hold a conditional offer for your course and have an IELTS score 0.5 or 1.0 below the required standard. View the range of pre-sessional courses http://www.intohigher.com/uk/en-gb/our-centres/into-university-of-stirling/studying/our-courses/course-list/pre-sessional-english.aspx .

Delivery and assessment

In addition to lectures, tutorials and seminars, a number of assignments must be completed. Laboratory-based practical sessions and fieldwork are also important elements of the course. Taught module assessment is continuous, involving short tests, seminars, essays, practical reports, critical and computational analysis, field assignments and set project reports. The research project module is examined through written dissertation and seminar presentations by both examiners and the external examiner.

Why Stirling?

REF2014
In REF2014 Stirling was placed 6th in Scotland and 45th in the UK with almost three quarters of research activity rated either world-leading or internationally excellent.

Rating

The Institute of Aquaculture, with a rating of 2.45 in the latest Research Assessment Exercise (RAE), was graded the top aquaculture department in the UK.

Strengths

The Institute has been closely associated with the global expansion of aquaculture initially through developing and improving the existing production systems and the development of new farmed species.
In recent years our research has focused on increasing the sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of these activities.
This gives out students the unique opportunity to be associated with these activities and obtain an insight into all aspects of aquacultural sciences and development worldwide.

Career opportunities

90.5% of Stirling graduates are in employment or further study six months after graduation.

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Introduction

As part of the highly flexible method of learning, the following degree outcomes are offered, all of which offer a route to an MSc, Postgraduate Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate qualification. All students will register for the degree in Sustainable Aquaculture in the first instance and be given the opportunity to change degree outcome at the end of the Foundation modules. All avenues to achieving your qualification are possible on a full-time or discontinuous basis to fit with your individual needs.

Key information

- Degree type: Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, MSc
- Study methods: Full-time
- Start date: September

Aquaculture Business Management

Aquaculture Business Management provides appropriate and flexible learning opportunities to allow students to understand the economics of aquaculture and set up business plans necessary to establish and consolidate new and existing aquaculture enterprises. The course places an emphasis on investment, financial management and marketing considerations, fundamental to the success of commercial aquaculture operations in any operating context.
The course is modularised, so SCQF credits can be accumulated (at the end of each assessed module) towards a postgraduate qualification. As a student of Aquaculture Business Management, there are two compulsory advanced topics of study: Business and Financial Management, and Policy, Planning and Management. The student must also complete a research project in a field relevant to the degree outcome.

The aim of the Aquaculture Business Management programme is to provide appropriate and flexible learning opportunities through which students can acquire and further develop the knowledge and skills necessary to establish, manage and appraise aquaculture enterprises.

A series of 6 foundation level topics will equip you with the core skills needed to understand aquatic animal biology and physiology, welfare and health management, reproduction and genetics, environmental requirements and management, production systems and economics, and nutrition requirements and food safety. Our links with various commercial industries in Scotland facilitate a study tour which will give you the opportunity to experience the range of practices in the UK aquaculture industry. The advanced topics offer you the opportunity to engage with a wider range of activities within the aquaculture sector. As a student of Aquaculture and the Environment, there are 3 compulsory advanced topics and a choice of 3 from 10 possible advanced topics.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:
- IELTS: 6.0 with 5.5 minimum in each skill
- Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): Grade C
- Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): Grade C
- Pearson Test of English (Academic): 54 with 51 in each component
- IBT TOEFL: 80 with no subtest less than 17

For more information go to English language requirements https://www.stir.ac.uk/study-in-the-uk/entry-requirements/english/

If you don’t meet the required score you may be able to register for one of our pre-sessional English courses. To register you must hold a conditional offer for your course and have an IELTS score 0.5 or 1.0 below the required standard. View the range of pre-sessional courses http://www.intohigher.com/uk/en-gb/our-centres/into-university-of-stirling/studying/our-courses/course-list/pre-sessional-english.aspx .

Delivery and assessment

In addition to lectures, tutorials and seminars, a number of assignments must be completed. Laboratory-based practical sessions and fieldwork are also important elements of the course. Taught module assessment is continuous, involving short tests, seminars, essays, practical reports, critical and computational analysis, field assignments and set project reports. The research project module is examined through written dissertation and seminar presentations by both examiners and the external examiner.

Why Stirling?

REF2014
In REF2014 Stirling was placed 6th in Scotland and 45th in the UK with almost three quarters of research activity rated either world-leading or internationally excellent.

Rating

The Institute of Aquaculture, with a rating of 2.45 in the latest Research Assessment Exercise (RAE), was graded the top aquaculture department in the UK.

Strengths

The Institute has been closely associated with the global expansion of aquaculture initially through developing and improving the existing production systems and the development of new farmed species.
In recent years our research has focused on increasing the sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of these activities.
This gives out students the unique opportunity to be associated with these activities and obtain an insight into all aspects of aquacultural sciences and development worldwide.

Career opportunities

90.5% of Stirling graduates are in employment or further study six months after graduation.

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Introduction

As part of the highly flexible method of learning, the following degree outcomes are offered, all of which offer a route to an MSc, Postgraduate Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate qualification. All students will register for the degree in Sustainable Aquaculture in the first instance and be given the opportunity to change degree outcome at the end of the Foundation modules. All avenues to achieving your qualification are possible on a full-time or discontinuous basis to fit with your individual needs.

Key information

- Degree type: Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, MSc
- Study methods: Full-time
- Start date: September

Aquaculture and Development

The Aquaculture and Development course offers students the opportunity to hone skills necessary to plan, manage and evaluate aquaculture development projects. This course places an emphasis on ensuring the sustainability of aquaculture development initiatives in environmental, social and economic terms.
The course is modularised, so SCQF credits can be accumulated (at the end of each assessed module) towards a postgraduate qualification. As a student of Aquaculture and Development, there are three compulsory advanced topics of study: Environmental Management; Livelihoods and Aquatic Resource Management and Policy; and Planning and Management. The student must also complete a research project in a field relevant to the degree outcome.

The aim of the Aquaculture and Development programme is to provide appropriate and flexible learning opportunities through which students can acquire and further develop the knowledge and skills necessary to establish, manage and appraise aquaculture development projects in a sustainable manner.

A series of 6 foundation level topics will equip you with the core skills needed to understand aquatic animal biology and physiology, welfare and health management, reproduction and genetics, environmental requirements and management, production systems and economics, and nutrition requirements and food safety. Our links with various commercial industries in Scotland facilitate a study tour which will give you the opportunity to experience the range of practices in the UK aquaculture industry. The advanced topics offer you the opportunity to engage with a wider range of activities within the aquaculture sector. As a student of Aquaculture and the Environment, there are 3 compulsory advanced topics and a choice of 3 from 10 possible advanced topics.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:
- IELTS: 6.0 with 5.5 minimum in each skill
- Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): Grade C
- Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): Grade C
- Pearson Test of English (Academic): 54 with 51 in each component
- IBT TOEFL: 80 with no subtest less than 17

For more information go to English language requirements https://www.stir.ac.uk/study-in-the-uk/entry-requirements/english/

If you don’t meet the required score you may be able to register for one of our pre-sessional English courses. To register you must hold a conditional offer for your course and have an IELTS score 0.5 or 1.0 below the required standard. View the range of pre-sessional courses http://www.intohigher.com/uk/en-gb/our-centres/into-university-of-stirling/studying/our-courses/course-list/pre-sessional-english.aspx .

Delivery and assessment

In addition to lectures, tutorials and seminars, a number of assignments must be completed. Laboratory-based practical sessions and fieldwork are also important elements of the course. Taught module assessment is continuous, involving short tests, seminars, essays, practical reports, critical and computational analysis, field assignments and set project reports. The research project module is examined through written dissertation and seminar presentations by both examiners and the external examiner.

Why Stirling?

REF2014
In REF2014 Stirling was placed 6th in Scotland and 45th in the UK with almost three quarters of research activity rated either world-leading or internationally excellent.

Rating

The Institute of Aquaculture, with a rating of 2.45 in the latest Research Assessment Exercise (RAE), was graded the top aquaculture department in the UK.

Strengths

The Institute has been closely associated with the global expansion of aquaculture initially through developing and improving the existing production systems and the development of new farmed species.
In recent years our research has focused on increasing the sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of these activities.
This gives out students the unique opportunity to be associated with these activities and obtain an insight into all aspects of aquacultural sciences and development worldwide.

Career opportunities

90.5% of Stirling graduates are in employment or further study six months after graduation.

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The master's Aquaculture and Marine Resource Management is a two-year MSc programme. You can specialise in Aquaculture; Marine Governance; Marine Resources and Ecology.

Oceans, seas, estuaries and lakes are major providers of ecosystem goods and services such as food, tourism and coastal protection. In many cases, exploitation levels have bypassed the carrying capacity of these ecosystems leading to devastating effects on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. 

To preserve marine biodiversity and its ecosystem functions innovative and sustainable solutions are necessary. Therefore, young professionals are needed with an integrative approach to marine ecosystem management.

Study programme

You start the MAM programme by taking courses that will give you a common basis on aquaculture and marine resources management. Then you chose one of three specialisations in which you will take deepening courses that will prepare you for your thesis.

In the Academic Consultancy Cluster you will share (interaction) and intergrade your knowledge with (the knowledge of) other students in multidisciplinary teams. On the programme of Aquaculture and Marine Resource Management page you can find the general outline of the programme and more detailed information about courses, theses and internships.

Specialisations

Within the master programme you can choose one of the following Specialisations to meet your personal interests.

• Aquaculture
• Marine Resources and Ecology
• Marine Governance

Your future career

As an alumni of the MSc programme Aquaculture and Marine Resource Management there are many job opportunities. To give you a small idea how your career could look like after your study we highlight some of the most common job types. Also, a few of our alumnus tell about their jobs. Read more about career perspectives and opportunities after finishing the programme.

Related programmes:

MSc Animal Sciences

MSc Biology 

MSc Environmental Sciences 

MSc Forest and Nature Conservation 

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Aquaculture is defined as the production of aquatic plants and animals for human consumption. Under the pressure of the increasing world population on the one side and the stagnating or even declining fishery landings on the other side, aquaculture is considered as the only option to respond to the growing demand for healthy and sustainable seafood. Commercial aquaculture is a relatively young, diverse and dynamic bio-industry with growth figures exceeding any other traditional primary production sector.

Modern aquaculture is a strongly research-driven bio-industry requiring constant innovation and highly skilled entrepreneurs. On the other hand, it is also a very diverse discipline with a wide range of involved species (plants, molluscs, crustaceans, fish), climates, environments (freshwater, brackishwater, marine), and exploitation modes (developing versus developed economies; subsistence versus business aquaculture).

The MSc in Aquaculture, established at Ghent University in 1991, offers a constantly actualised programme that balances a broad multidisciplinary approach and an in-depth research-based training. It prepares its students for fulfilling leading roles in scientific research, as well as in policy-making as aquaculture businesses.

Structure

The programme is conceived along a gradient of increasingly specialized and research-driven courses across the four semesters of the two years’ programme. In the first semester basic knowledge related to topics such as biology, microbiology, aquatic ecology, statistics is consolidated, broadened and deepened, in order to come to a homogeneous profile of the students.

The following semesters focus on specialized aquaculture-related topics underpinned by the expertise of the ARC (especially in terms of live food production and applications and larviculture microbiology). The programme is concluded with the fourth semester, which is available for thesis work. Thesis work is generally integrated within ongoing research projects, thus providing the student with a broader context of current research and applications.

Students advance their presentation techniques, communication skills and other generic skills through a variety of for teaching forms other than classical classroom teaching (e.g. practical exercises; case-study approaches, group work, lab work reporting).

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the programme, the graduated student:
-Possesses a broad knowledge at an advanced level in a number of basic disciplines (biology, ecology, pathology, genetics, zootechnology, nutrition, management, economics and statistics) relevant to aquaculture.
-Understands the processes ongoing in different forms and systems of aquatic production.
-Has acquired a broad knowledge on the production of aquatic organisms.
-Can identify and analyze the interactions between aquatic biological production systems and their environmental context, and can implement potential mitigating interventions.
-Can identify and analyze the interactions between aquatic biological production systems and their socio-economic context, and is familiar with the practicalities and organization of commercial ventures.
-Understands the ethical issues of animal production and experimentation.
-Can design and implement strategies for future development in aquaculture.
-Has acquired a scientific approach to formulate and test hypotheses to design research protocols, and to collect and analyze data.
-Is able to interact with peers, with various stakeholders in the aquaculture sector, and with a general public concerning personal research, thoughts, ideas, and research proposals, both written and orally.

Other admission requirements

The applicant must be proficient in the language of the course or training programme, i.e. English. The English language proficiency can be met by providing a certificate (validity of 5 years) of one of the following tests: (TOEFL/IELTS predictive tests and TOEIC will not be accepted):
-TOEFL IBT 80
-TOEFL PBT 550
-ACADEMIC IELTS 6,5 overall score with a min. of 6 for writing
-CEFR B2 Issued by a European university language centre
-ESOL CAMBRIDGE English CAE (Advanced)

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Aquaculture is now recognised as the fastest growth sector of agribusiness on a global scale – learn about this growing industry through our multidisciplinary approach, which places emphasis on sustainable use of aquatic and marine resources for commercial exploitation for food and products. You’ll discover the scientific rationale for improving aquatic animal health, production and reducing environmental impact and address the socio-economic factors.

Key features

-Develop an appreciation for the growing aquaculture industry within a sustainable agenda for meeting the needs of culturing fish, crustacean, mollusc, aquatic plants and invertebrates for their products.
-Choose specialised modules and draw on the expertise of research active staff with proven track records of teaching and national as well as international recognition in their fields.
-Seize the opportunity to research an aspect of aquaculture.
-Undertake a variety of projects and technical training with our contemporary facilities such as wet labs/aquaria, nutrition and feed analytical suites as well as teaching laboratories, molecular biology and an electron microscopy centre.
-Learn from internationally recognised scientists and personnel from Plymouth University and the National Lobster Hatchery.
-Gain access to expertise from leaders in industry and commerce in a variety of aquaculture systems, advancing your technical and scientific knowledge.
-Benefit from our strong relationships with government agencies, commercial enterprising and advisory organisations.
-Join our well established postgraduate environment where PhD students interact and engage in related specialised areas to foster a sound academic forum for sharing ideas and technical knowledge.
-Graduate opportunities include various career paths within the aquaculture industry as well as associated fields relating to fish and shellfish health, welfare and research. Previous graduates have progressed into careers in these fields or PhD programmes in the UK, Europe, Asia and Africa.

Course details

You’ll learn about the scale and nature of the global industry and the challenges required to develop sustainable solutions. The programme reflects key aspects of fish, shellfish and algae production relating to modern aquaculture practices with emphasis on nutrition, feed management, health, welfare and sustainable technology. It also incorporates the socio-economic and geo-political developments in this expanding area as well as marketing and enterprise. Topics include: fish nutrition, feed technology, fish and shellfish health management, disease prevention and genetic improvement of stock for aquaculture; management of fish production, ornamental fish culture and global demand for aquatic trades in captive fish species; environmental and legislative regulations in different countries and the problems of aquaculture expansion in rural areas; economics of the marine environment; seafood processing; and a research project leading to your dissertation.

Core module
-BIO504 Health and Production in Aquaculture
-BIO505 Research Project
-BIO5125 Sustainable Use of Resources in Biological Systems
-BIO5131 Postgraduate Research Skills & Methods
-BIO5208 Contemporary Issues in Aquaculture

Optional modules
-MAR529 Marine Planning
-BIO5209 Seafood Processing - Current Perspectives
-MAR507 Economics of the Marine Environment

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

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This one year programme is designed to build on scientific knowledge gained from your previous degree level study and give you practical experience to work daily in a marine environment.

If you have a science degree and want to work in the field of marine biology. This qualification is for you. 

• Aquaculture is the fastest growing food production industry in the world
• You will work in a highly sustainable industry
• Through the programme you will make contacts in industry and research that can lead to employment
• You will learn to put marine biology theory into practice.

This programme will give you an advanced theoretical understanding and the technical and practical skills related to sustainable aquaculture practices.

It will provide you with the skills to critically assess aquaculture systems. As part of an internship or in your existing employment, you will also complete an industry research project.

This will encourage you to support the development of sustainable growth in the aquaculture sector through innovation. The programme has been developed in consultation with the aquaculture and scientific community as well as industry representatives.

It is designed to be flexible enough to meet today’s needs and those of the future, locally, nationally and internationally.

Structure and timetable

This one year programme will provide you with integrated study and research opportunities in the areas of sustainable aquaculture practice (30 credits at Level 8) and management (30 credits at Level 8). 

These core studies are supported by a course in research methodology (15 credits at Level 7) leading to a full year research dissertation (45 credits at Level 8).

The aim of the research project is for you to initiate original research while working alongside existing aquaculture businesses and/or research organisations.

Industry based learning

The Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Aquaculture programme includes one compulsory industry placement within the Dissertation course at Level 8.

Students will spend at least 100 hours working in industry to conduct research as well as apply campus based learning in a workplace environment. This experience means you meet people in industry and research and they get to know you.

In the past, the projects students have worked on have included; biotechnology, research on a particular fish species, and the life cycle of a particular seaweed. They have carried out projects in research institutions, private companies and crown research institutes.

Career opportunities and pathways

Upon graduation you will have the skills and knowledge to progress to higher level Postgraduate study such as a Master's Degree.

You may follow a career path in New Zealand or overseas such as:

• Aquaculture production management
• Research technician
• Specialist roles such as health management or feed management
• Voluntary sector for marine conservation
• Department of Conservation marine reserve ranger
• Ministry of Primary Industries fisheries inspector or observer
• Public aquarium curatorial staff
• Business management in aquaculture aquatic environmental field such as environmental officer for local government.

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This Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree in Aquaculture, Environment and Society (EMJMD, ACES) offers specialised training to deliver highly skilled graduates capable of addressing the challenge of food provision for a growing world population.

Food security is of global importance and, in the face of declining resources, aquaculture will have an increasingly demand for people with in-depth knowledge and practical expertise to enable this major industry to produce nutritious, high-quality and affordable foods. Graduates will be capable of addressing these challenges and will have exciting international career opportunities.

The sustainable development of the aquaculture industry in Europe has become essential for improving the competitiveness of this sector internationally. There are many major scientific, technological and social obstacles, however to overcome.

Special Features

• The course is delivered by an international team of experts at world class research facilities including: Scottish Association for Marine Science UHI; University of Crete (Greece); and University of Nantes (France).

• Associate institutes with world-class reputations are an integral part of this course and include the United Nations University - Institute of Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) and the Huinay Research Station, Chile.

• There are numerous international partners (including the International Oceanographic Commission, Sainsbury’s and Marine Harvest) offering dissertation placements with full industry participation.

• The course gives students an opportunity to study for 6 months in three European countries and an unparalleled insight into aquaculture practices and policies across Europe and beyond.

• You will gain research experience through a dissertation, linked to an industrial partner and hosted by an ACES partner, with supervision from experts in the field.

• You will benefit from strong peer-group support and networking developed throughout the programme as you move around the partners as one group during the first three semesters.


• A limited number of Erasmus+ Scholarships are available on a competitive basis for each intake to cover the tuition fees, living and travel expenses. Any student can apply for a scholarship and applications from EU and particularly non-EU candidates are welcome.

Modules

To achieve the award of Erasmus Mundas Joint Masters, you must successfully complete three modules (each worth 10 ECTS, equivalent to 20 SQCF) at each of the partner institutions and a research dissertation (30 ECTS or 60 SQCF).

SAMS_UHI

Overview of Global Aquaculture - (core)
Environmental interactions of Aquaculture - (core)
Governanance, management and knowledge exchange - (optional)
Innovation, technology and systems - (optional)



University of Crete

Managing biological lifecycles - Finfish - (core)
Sustainability of feed production - (core)
Fish quality and welfare - (optional)
Environmental impacts for Aquaculture - (optional)



University of Nantes

Managing biological lifecycles - Shellfish - (core)
Marine product safety - (core)
Refinement and development of marine natural products - (optional)
Food composition, trophic transfer and human nutrition - (optional)



Dissertation module - (core)

Students are able to decide on their host institute for this module

Successful candidates receive an Erasmus Mundus+ Joint Master Degree from UHI, the University of Crete and the University of Nantes.

Locations

This course is available at Scottish Association for Marine Science UHI, Scottish Marine Institute, Oban, PA37 1QA

Funding

From 2017, eligible Scotland domiciled students studying full time can access loans up to 10,000 from the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS).This comprises a tuition fee loan up to £5,500 and a non-income assessed living cost loan of £4,500. EU students studying full time can apply for a tuition fee loan up to £5500.

Part-time students undertaking any taught postgraduate course over two years up to Masters level who meet the residency eligibility can apply for a for a tuition fee loan up to £2,750 per year.

See Scholarships tab below for full details

Top reasons to study at UHI

Do something different: our reputation is built on our innovative approach to learning and our distinctive research and curriculum which often reflects the unique environment and culture of our region and closely links to vocational skills required by a range of sectors.
Choice of campuses – we have campuses across the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. Each campus is different from rich cultural life of the islands; the spectacular coasts and mountains; to the bright lights of our city locations.
Small class sizes mean that you have a more personal experience of university and receive all the support you need from our expert staff

How to apply

If you want to apply for this postgraduate programme click on the ‘visit website’ button below which will take you to the relevant course page on our website, from there select the Apply tab to complete our online application.
If you still have any questions please get in touch with our information line by email using the links beow or call on 0845 272 3600.

International Students

If you would like to study in a country of outstanding natural beauty, friendly communities, and cities buzzing with social life and activities, the Highlands and Islands of Scotland should be your first choice. We have campuses across the region each one with its own special characteristics from the rich cultural life of the islands to the bright city lights of Perth and Inverness. Some courses are available in one location only, for others you will have a choice; we also have courses that can be studied online from your own home country. .http://www.uhi.ac.uk/en/studying-at-uhi/international

English Language Requirements

Our programmes are taught and examined in English. To make the most of your studies, you must be able to communicate fluently and accurately in spoken and written English and provide certified proof of your competence before starting your course. Please note that English language tests need to have been taken no more than two years prior to the start date of the course. The standard English Language criteria to study at the University of the Highlands and Islands are detailed on our English language requirements page http://www.uhi.ac.uk/en/studying-at-uhi/international/how-to-apply-to-uhi/english-language-requirements

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Validated by the University of Portsmouth

Why choose this degree?

• Taught by industry experts who are research active and have strong national and international links
• Benefit from the onsite husbandry, rearing and extensive research facilities of the Salmonid Rearing and Trials Centre and the Aquatic Research and Conservation Centre
• Enjoy excellent access to exclusive sports fisheries in southern England as well as onsite fishery and stocks of sports fish

View the current programme specification

View the upcoming 2017-18 programme specification

What will I learn?

Building on a strong science foundation, the course is designed to expand your knowledge of the husbandry and rearing of many global aquaculture species and refine your research techniques in applied aquaculture, sports fisheries and sustainable fisheries management.

In addition to traditional lectures and seminars, units are delivered using the practical resources of our Aquatic Research and Conservation Centre, the only teaching facility of its kind in the UK, Salmonid Rearing and Trials Centre and College fishery, industry-specific software and databases, conference attendance, guest speakers and offsite visits. Links are encouraged to external organisations, commercial companies and collaborative research projects. 

How will I be assessed?

Units are assessed by a mixture of coursework including posters, presentations and written assignments plus an original dissertation requiring independent research and formal write-up. You will be encouraged to submit written papers for publication in appropriate industry related journals. 

Where can I go from here?

Typical employment destinations include technical roles in aquaculture, sport fishery consultants, government fishery scientists for organisations such as Cefas and the Environment Agency. Alternatively, you may choose to continue with doctorate research.

Units Covered

• Applied Aquaculture
• Sports Fishery Management
• Sustainable Fisheries Management
• Research Toolkit
• Research Project

Postgraduate Funding

The government has introduced postgraduate loans for those undertaking postgraduate study, so now you can afford to study at the next level. Find out more here.

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Validated by the University of Portsmouth

Why choose this degree?

• Taught by industry experts who are research active and have strong national and international links
• Benefit from the onsite husbandry, rearing and extensive research facilities of the Salmonid Rearing and Trials Centre and the Aquatic Research and Conservation Centre
• Enjoy excellent access to exclusive sports fisheries in southern England as well as onsite fishery and stocks of sports fish

View the current programme specification

View the upcoming 2017-18 programme specification

What will I learn?

Building on a strong science foundation, the course is designed to expand your knowledge of the husbandry and rearing of many global aquaculture species and refine your research techniques in applied aquaculture, sports fisheries and sustainable fisheries management.

In addition to traditional lectures and seminars, units are delivered using the practical resources of our Aquatic Research and Conservation Centre, the only teaching facility of its kind in the UK, Salmonid Rearing and Trials Centre and College fishery, industry-specific software and databases, conference attendance, guest speakers and offsite visits. Links are encouraged to external organisations, commercial companies and collaborative research projects. 

How will I be assessed?

Units are assessed by a mixture of coursework including posters, presentations and written assignments plus an original dissertation requiring independent research and formal write-up. You will be encouraged to submit written papers for publication in appropriate industry related journals. 

Where can I go from here?

Typical employment destinations include technical roles in aquaculture, sport fishery consultants, government fishery scientists for organisations such as Cefas and the Environment Agency. Alternatively, you may choose to continue with doctorate research.

Units Covered

• Applied Aquaculture
• Sports Fishery Management
• Sustainable Fisheries Management
• Research Toolkit
• Research Project

Postgraduate Funding

The government has introduced postgraduate loans for those undertaking postgraduate study, so now you can afford to study at the next level. Find out more here.

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The Sustainable Aquaculture distance learning modular programme is taught part time via an online e-learning platform offering online tutorial support, direct email contact with tutors, video streams and access to student bulletin boards. This structure allows students the maximum flexibility to complete their studies while continuing in their employment.

The award of Postgraduate Certificate requires 60 credits gained from a selection of taught modules. The Postgraduate Certificate provides a shorter programme than the Postgraduate Diploma or MSc Sustainable Aquaculture programme. Students focus either on vertebrate or invertebrate aquaculture species and have a choice of taking two out of the three optional topics. 

Highlights

• Flexible modular e-learning allows students to complete their studies while continuing in their employment.
• It is also possible to study single modules rather than the whole programme.
• The course uses an online e-learning platform with tutorial support, direct contact with tutors, video stream and access to student bulletin boards.
• Students are able to specialise in either vertebrates or invertebrates.

Teaching format

Classes are taught through a combination of weekly lectures and tutorials and are assessed through a combination of written examinations and coursework.

Further particulars regarding curriculum development.

Modules

The modules in this programme have varying methods of delivery and assessment. For more details of each module, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the latest module catalogue which is for the 2017–2018 academic year; some elements may be subject to change for 2018 entry.

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The aquaculture programme reflects the expansion of a modern industry that now supplies nearly 50 per cent of our annual world sea food production and is valued at $110US Billion per annum globally. The production of fin-fish and shrimp and bivalves is now recognised as one of the fastest growing sectors of agri-business and contributes greatly to our food security agenda. Among the most important fish species are salmon and trout in temperate regions as well as numerous warm water species such as tilapia and catfish. Carp and other freshwater fish still make up the bulk of fish production with Asia and China dominating in this respect. Marine fish farming of sea bass, sea bream and exotic species such as barramundi and grouper are also at the fore- front of aquaculture development. The programme will cover the major fish species produced globally and different type of systems in use.

Aquaculture relies on high quality feeds, good nutrition and various management strategies that promote optimum health and welfare of fish. Consequently a full understanding of nutritional requirements, feed formulation and feed technology is paramount to its success. It also relies on knowledge of genetic improvements of fish stock, disease recognition, diagnostics and treatment. Good governance and compliance with legislation and standards in food safety and production is critical to the producer, retailer and consumer alike. These are all at the core of a sound and sustainable fish farming industry and central to the ethos of this course.

The programme will serve to offer a portfolio of multidisciplinary topics within a selection of specialised integrative modules to advance students’ understanding of the relevant biosciences underpinning fish farming. This will be presented within a theme of mono-gastric animal production where there are many similarities of principle and scientific approaches.

In summary the course:

Recognises the global context within which food production now operates.
Provides UK students with new insights into the global agri-food system
Covers the major fish species produced globally and different type of systems in use.
Will advance students’ understanding of the relevant biosciences underpinning fish farming.

How will it benefit me?
The course will:

Prepare students for a career in Aquaculture.
Offer vocational training in the area of applied aquaculture.
Prepare students for PhD studies.

Each modules is usually delivered as an intensive short course, taught over a one week block, with a maximum of 5 days per 15 credit module providing in the region of 35 hours of contact time.
Teaching may consist of formal lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical exercises, laboratory sessions, study visits or the use of guest speakers.
The PgC, PgD and MSc are offered full-time and part-time to allow those in work to study towards an award at a pace that suits their needs and time available.

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