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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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.

Read less

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.

Read less

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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MSc Aquaculture and Marine Resource Management

The MSc Aquaculture and Marine Resource Management (MAM) is a two year programme, which comprises of 120 credits (ECTS). Students learn to manage living resources in all types of water bodies, natural or man-made. The programme provides understanding of the biology and ecology of aquatic organisms and water bodies.

Programme summary

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, there is a need for young professionals who know how to take an integrative approach to marine ecosystems management.

The MAM programme starts with courses that give a common basis on aquaculture and marine resource management. In these courses, you will learn the principles of marine ecology and the governance of marine systems, the biology and ecology of aquatic organisms and the role of science in public policy processes. Within the Aquaculture and Marine Resource master programme, you can choose one of three specialisations: Aquaculture, Marine resources and ecology, Marine Governance. Graduates are skilled in techniques and methods for analysing and solving biological environmental problems in aquatic systems by looking at the organisms and the communities including ecological, management and social aspects.

Specialisations

All students acquire a thorough understanding of processes governing life in any type of water body. In addition, students can choose to put more emphasis on any of the following aspects: ecology, natural resource management, capture fisheries or aquaculture. Depending on the specialisation the topics differ.

Aquaculture
This specialisation deals with the culture of numerous aquatic organisms (such as finfish, shrimp, shellfish, ornamental fish, corrals, sponges and algae) in a wide range of culture environments (from sea enclosures to semiextensive ponds and high-tech recirculation systems). Production methods should be sustainable, guarantee the health and wellbeing of the culture organisms, be economically viable, socially accepted, and result in safe and healthy products. This can only be achieved through knowledge and skills in aquatic production ecology based on knowledge of biological, physical and chemical integrity of water bodies and insight in economic and social driving factors.

Marine Resources and Ecology
This specialisation focuses on the sensitivity of marine communities in relation to human interventions, including climate change, fisheries and habitat destruction. You will learn to address limiting factors in order to be able to contribute to an improved biodiversity, environmental quality and sustainability of marine ecosystems. To do so, it requires insight into the ecological processes that form the basis for marine food chains, the interaction between species and the functioning of the different ecosystems.

Marine Governance
The main focus of this specialisation lies on the sustainable governance and economics of marine and coastal systems. The goals and strategies of commercial enterprises, non-governmental and governmental organisations and international institutions are analysed, and their effects are evaluated in relation to both organisations and ecosystems involved.

Your future career

The interest in sustainable management of the seas and coasts is booming, while there are only few professionals available with an integrated and specialised training in this field. Numerous types of specialists are needed, including technical specialists, researchers, consultants and project leaders in commercial, governmental and non-governmental organisations.

Alumna Pascalle Jacobs.
"I had already graduated as a terrestrial ecologist before I started the Master Aquaculture and Marine Resource Management. I started the MSc Aquaculture and Marine Resource Management mainly because I saw a lot of potential in marine research. I did my thesis at IMARES and after my graduation they gave me the opportunity to work there as a PhD on a research project. In my research, I look at if and to what extent big amounts of young mussels attached to ropes or nets (mussel seed collectors) change the environment. These young mussels eat a lot so one of my research questions is if this grazing affects the amount of food available for other animals."

Related programmes:
MSc Animal Sciences
MSc Biology
MSc Environmental Sciences
MSc Forest and Nature Conservation.

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Aquaculture accounts for more than half of the fish supply for human consumption whilst angling is the biggest single leisure industry in the UK with a value in excess of £4 billion annually. With the focus on a sustainable secure food supply for the future and a population with more leisure time available, enhanced knowledge and training is required by the industry in these two areas. Sport fisheries offer considerable subject overlap with aquaculture in terms of technical application, environmental impact, containment and predation, legislation and sustainability.

The Salmonid Rearing and Trial Centre (SRTC) and the National Aquatics Training Centre (NATC) provide students with immediate access to the husbandry and rearing of many global aquaculture species together with extensive research facilities. In addition, the College’s close links with the UK aquaculture industry offer applied research opportunities. The onsite experiences for the sports fishery element of the MSc are supported by the College fishery and the stock of sports fish available in the NATC as well as numerous field site visits to local aquaculture and sports fishery venues. The College’s close proximity to many important and exclusive sports fisheries in Southern England will also provide students with unique learning experiences in the sustainable management of both aquaculture and sports fisheries. The teaching team at Sparsholt have a strong background in aquaculture and sports fisheries with specialisms in global aquaculture, fishery management and environmental biology.

Units Covered
– Applied Aquaculture
– Sport Fishery Management
– Sustainable Fisheries Management
– Research Toolkit
– Research Project

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

Read less

Aquaculture accounts for more than half of the fish supply for human consumption whilst angling is the biggest single leisure industry in the UK with a value in excess of £4 billion annually. With the focus on a sustainable secure food supply for the future and a population with more leisure time available, enhanced knowledge and training is required by the industry in these two areas. Sport fisheries offer considerable subject overlap with aquaculture in terms of technical application, environmental impact, containment and predation, legislation and sustainability.

The Salmonid Rearing and Trial Centre (SRTC) and the National Aquatics Training Centre (NATC) provide students with immediate access to the husbandry and rearing of many global aquaculture species together with extensive research facilities. In addition, the CollegeÕs close links with the UK aquaculture industry offer applied research opportunities. The onsite experiences for the sports fishery element of the MSc are supported by the College fishery and the stock of sports fish available in the NATC as well as numerous field site visits to local aquaculture and sports fishery venues. The College's close proximity to many important and exclusive sports fisheries in Southern England will also provide students with unique learning experiences in the sustainable management of both aquaculture and sports fisheries. The teaching team at Sparsholt have a strong background in aquaculture and sports fisheries with specialisms in global aquaculture, fishery management and environmental biology.

Units Covered
– Applied Aquaculture
– Sport Fishery Management
– Sustainable Fisheries Management
– Research Toolkit
– Research Project

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

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In this course, you will build on your knowledge of aquaculture (fish farming) and develop your skills using new advances in the area of sustainable aquaculture.

You will cover many areas, including principles and practices in sustainable aquaculture, aquatic environmental management, aquaculture nutrition, food security, aquaculture technology, value-addition of aquatic products and climate change.

You will be prepared for leadership roles within the resource management sector and have the practical skills and knowledge you need to manage the operations of aquaculture, marine and freshwater farms, and hatcheries.

A sustainable aquaculture research project is a significant component of this course. Intensive study periods may also be available over the summer or vacation periods.

Professional recognition

Graduates may be eligible to apply for membership of the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology (AIAST).

Career opportunities

Upon graduation, you will have a strategic advantage in advancing your career in government agencies responsible for fisheries or natural resource management, environmental management, or in private companies whose operations use freshwater and marine resources in a sustainable manner.

Credit for previous study

Credits for recognised learning may be granted if you have successfully completed an honours or graduate diploma in this field of study.

How this course will make you industry ready

This course provides you with high-level skills and knowledge that will be valuable when undertaking high-calibre research and development, and adopting innovations and new technologies.

2016 Curtin International Scholarships: Merit Scholarship

Curtin University is an inspiring, vibrant, international organisation, committed to making tomorrow better. It is a beacon for innovation, driving advances in technology through high-impact research and offering more than 100 practical, industry-aligned courses connecting to workplaces of tomorrow.

Ranked in the top two per cent of universities worldwide in the Academic Ranking of World Universities 2015, the University is also ranked 25th in the world for universities under the age of 50 in the QS World University Rankings 2015 Curtin also received an overall five-star excellence rating in the QS stars rating.

Curtin University strives to give high achieving international students the opportunity to gain an internationally recognised education through offering the Merit Scholarship. The Merit Scholarship will give you up to 25 per cent of your first year tuition fees and if you enrol in an ELB program at Curtin English before studying at Curtin, you will also receive a 10 per cent discount on your Curtin English fees.

For full details and terms and conditions of this scholarship, please visit: curtin.edu/int-scholarships and click on Merit.

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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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The course structure is modular and taught part time via an e-learning platform allowing students the maximum flexibility to complete their studies while continuing in their employment.

The programme is taught by a series of scientific and professional experts from within the aquaculture industry and course material is made available to registered students through the TheFishSite.com. Online tutorial support, direct e-mail contact with tutors, , and access to student bulletin boards are features of the e-learning strategies employed. Each module consists of a series of lectures, tutorials, discussions and case studies delivered online. Assessment is by a combination of continuous assessment during each module and by an end of module examination, also delivered online.
Programme Structure
The award of Postgraduate Diploma requires 120 credits gained from taught modules over an 18 month period consisting of a series of compulsory core modules and a choice of optional modules matched to students’ specific interests.

Core modules Credits
BL4801 Aquaculture and Fisheries 10
BL4802 Biology for Aquaculture 20
BL5801 Nutrition 20
BL5802 Management, husbandry and sustainability 10
BL5803 Health and disease 20
BL5804 Markets, products, processing & food safety 10
BL5805 Local and global impacts of aquaculture 10

Optional modules (two topics from five) Credits
BL5821 Breeding and genetics 10
BL5822 Welfare and ethics 10
BL5823 Recirculation aquaculture systems 10
BL5824 Ornamental and aquaria production 10
BL5825 Larval rearing 10

The award of MSc requires 180 credits including 120 credits gained from taught modules (as for the Postgraduate Diploma) and 60 credits for a research dissertation (BL5899 Sustainable Aquaculture Research Dissertation). Entry into MSc requires students to have completed the Postgraduate Diploma and to have achieved satisfactory grades according to University regulations

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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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Introduction

The Institute of Aquaculture is one of a handful of institutions worldwide 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 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

You will gain an understanding of the biology, husbandry and environment of farmed aquatic species, in addition to specialist expertise in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of aquatic animal diseases in cultured organisms. It is also intended as preparation for students who plan to pursue a PhD in the area of aquatic animal health or disease.

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 full Master’s course for each degree outcome is divided into four taught modules containing 12 subject areas or topics; two foundation modules, two advanced modules and a single Research Project module. The overall course is divided into three parts:

- Foundation modules
The Foundation modules are taught between September and December. There are six compulsory topics of study within two taught modules, taken consecutively, giving instruction in basic aquaculture concepts and skills. Successful completion of both Foundation modules will qualify you for a Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainable Aquaculture.

- Advanced modules
The two advanced modules consisting of six compulsory topics of study are taught between January and April. Successful completion of the advanced modules, subsequent to the Foundation modules, will qualify you for a Postgraduate Diploma in Aquatic Pathobiology.

- Research Project module
The Research Project module is normally completed between April and August, and involves research in many areas of aquatic animal health. These projects are mostly laboratory based and often result in peer-reviewed publications. Successful completion of the module, subsequent to foundation and advanced modules, will qualify you for an MSc in Aquatic Pathobiology.

Delivery and assessment

The course is delivered though a variety of formats including lectures, practical classes, seminars, field visits and directed study. Assessment consists of a number of assignments in a range of formats. The Research Project is graded on your activities during the project, your dissertation and a seminar presentation made in front of your peers, supervisors and examiners. The dissertation is examined by Aquaculture and 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 degree has been taught for almost 40 years and only one of its kind. It give students the unique opportunity to study the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of aquatic animal diseases in cultured organisms in one of the top institutions of the world.

Career opportunities

This course has run for almost 40 years and has trained over 200 students (in combination with Aquatic Veterinary Studies) from all over the world. It equips graduates with expertise applicable to a wide range of potential careers. The career path selected depends on your personal interests, as well as your previous experiences. Our graduates generally find employment in their area of interest and the world employment market in the area of aquatic animal health remains buoyant.
The course provides a natural career progression for most candidates and a conversion course for others wishing to enter the field. It also provides training for those who wish to pursue a PhD, especially in aquaculture, aquatic health, fisheries and aquatic resources management.
Over the last five intakes, in combination with the Aquatic Veterinary Studies degree, about 30 percent of graduates have gone on to a PhD or further research, about 25 percent have taken employment as aquatic health consultants, about 20 percent work in government fisheries departments, about 15 percent are university lecturers and the remainder are managers of farms or aquaria or have other types of employment.

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Aquaculture is one of the world’s fastest growing industries, with an average growth rate of over eight per cent per year for the past ten years. More than half of all the aquatic food species consumed are now produced from aquaculture and it is estimated that a further 40 million tonnes of aquatic food will be required by 2030 to supply the continuing increase in demand.

The University of St Andrews in collaboration with 5m Publishing, owners of thefishsite.com, offer modular e-learning Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma and MSc programmes.

The programme structures

These modular programmes are 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 focused either on vertebrate or invertebrate aquaculture species. The compulsory module topics are the same as the first four modules listed above, but specifically are focused on vertebrates or invertebrates. The Postgraduate Certificate is completed by taking two out of the three optional topics listed above.

The award of Postgraduate Diploma requires 120 credits gained from taught modules over an 18-month period and covers all
aspects of aquaculture both vertebrate and invertebrate. The course consists of a series of compulsory core modules and a choice of five optional modules matched to students’ specific interests.

The award of MSc requires 180 credits including 120 credits gained from taught modules (as for the Postgraduate Diploma) and 60 credits for a research dissertation. Entry into MSc will require students to have completed the Postgraduate Diploma and to have achieved satisfactory grades according to University entrance requirements.

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