phd fisheries science

School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences

• College of the Environment
• University of Washington

Graduate Program

At the School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, you will graduate employment-ready with the skills to advance the discipline of fisheries and aquatic sciences. You will learn to develop and implement novel research that addresses relevant questions and issues in a selected discipline, communicate science effectively to peers and to the public, integrate knowledge across disciplines, and gain leadership skills by mentoring, advising, and instructing junior colleagues.

Learn more about both of our degree options

Graduate Degrees in Aquatic and Fishery Science

Master of Science (MS) Degree

The Master of Science (MS) degree, often precursory to the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, typically requires the student to complete a research-based thesis. Course requirements are flexible to support the educational and career goals of the student. Students interested in an MS degree should contact individual faculty members to request information on current research and graduate opportunities. Students completing an MS degree may petition to pursue a PhD degree without reapplying.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Degree

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree program requires preparation of a research proposal, the passage of a qualifying examination and general examination, completion of the dissertation research, and presentation of the research at a final examination. A minimum of two years of residence at the UW is also required. Students interested in a PhD degree should contact individual faculty members to request information on current research and graduate opportunities.

Data Science Option

The School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences Data Science Option (SAFS DSO) curriculum at the Master’s (M.S.) and Doctorate (Ph. D.) levels is designed to provide the breadth and depth of knowledge needed for a successful career at the interface of applied aquatic sciences and data science. The primary learning outcome for the SAFS DSO is for students to have professional working proficiency – gained through coursework – in data management, data visualization, software engineering (data focused), and statistical modeling. Graduate students in a SAFS degree program with interest in the DSO should contact the SAFS graduate adviser for more information ( safsadv(a)uw.edu ).

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PhD in Fisheries Science or Wildlife Science

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Graduate students of the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife value scholarship in all its forms - discovery, integration, application, and teaching. We value understanding for its own sake, for the betterment of people, and for the conservation of the natural world.

PhD in Fisheries Science

The Fisheries Science graduate program focuses on quantitative analyses of marine and freshwater fish populations, water quality, fish systematics, fish and invertebrate physiology, stream ecology, modeling of aquatic ecosystems, land use interactions, endangered species, and aquaculture.

Areas of Concentration in Fisheries

Aquaculture, conservation biology, fish genetics, ichthyology, limnology, parasites and diseases, physiology and ecology of marine and freshwater fishes, stream ecology, toxicology, water pollution biology.

Marine Research

Students can choose to spend one term at the Hatfield Marine Science Center , an extended campus facility located in Newport, where we have courses emphasizing the marine environment.

The Oregon Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit has active research programs funded in part by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Biological Resources Division of the U.S. Geological Survey. The Agricultural Experiment Station, the Sea Grant program, Forest Science Laboratory and other organizations fund major research projects.

The department maintains extensive collections of vertebrate species, which are curated by  Brian Sidlauskas  (fish),  Clinton Epps  (mammals), and  Bruce Dugger  (birds). The Oregon State Ichthyology Collection is also available to view online. 

PhD in Wildlife Science

The Wildlife Science graduate program in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife emphasizes wildlife research concerning the interaction of wildlife with land uses, migratory bird biology, forestry-wildlife relationships, endangered species management, and population dynamics. Read more about faculty research in Fisheries and Wildlife.

Areas of Concentration in Wildlife

Animal-habitat relationships; behavior; conservation biology; community studies; ecology of birds, small and large mammals including cetaceans and pinnipeds, and herptiles; ecology of avian and mammalian predators; ecology of waterfowl and upland game birds; effects of parasites, diseases, and environmental contaminants; nutrition; population; population dynamics; reproductive biology; toxicology of pesticides; wildlife ecology; wildlife-forestry interactions.  

The department maintains extensive collections of vertebrate species, which are curated by Alvaro Cortes (fish),  Clinton Epps  (mammals), and  Bruce Dugger  (birds).

Our Department's decision for admission is not the date of application but your acceptance by a faculty advisor. Please review more information on  How to Apply  prior to submitting an application. 

Current Students

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Learning Outcomes:

Read more about our learning outcomes.

If you have questions about any of the graduate programs please contact the  Graduate Program Coordinator .

M.S. &  Ph.D.  in Fisheries, Aquaculture & Aquatic Sciences

Feeding a growing population & protecting our natural resources.

Auburn University School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences   is one of the world’s premier warm-water fisheries programs. Our graduate degree offerings include the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy, with emphases in aquaculture, aquatic ecology and fishery management.  

Our programs  prepare students for productive careers in academia and the private and public sectors in aquaculture, aquatic resource management and ecology, and fisheries biology and management.  

Coursework may also be taken for credit at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab or the Gulf Coast Research Lab.

Master’s & Doctoral Programs

The information below is a brief description of Master and Doctoral Programs in Fisheries, Aquaculture & Aquatic Sciences offered by our department. 

GENERAL INFORMATION

Current Level Assistantship

• M.S.: $18,503-$25,000 and Ph.D.: $20,484-27,500 (all 0.5 FTE, 12 months of support).
• The exact amount is at the department’s discretion and is subject to change by the college and Auburn University.
• Salaries are paid in accordance with the budget policies and payroll procedures of the university.

Recommended Application Deadlines

• We follow graduate school deadlines: new students must be accepted 45 (domestic) or 90 (international) days before the start of the target semester.

GRE Requirements

• Required unless waived by faculty.

Departmental Preference

• Prospective graduate students should identify a faculty member who will support their application before applying since faculty don’t have access to applications.

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY (PH.D.)

The doctoral program in fisheries, aquaculture and aquatic sciences emphasizes original scholarly research and includes significant advanced coursework.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Graduates with a Ph.D. in fisheries, aquaculture and aquatic sciences from Auburn University will:  

• Be able to defend their perspectives relative to primary literature in their area of expertise .  
• Comprehend the scientific method and be able to apply it in their area of expertise .  
• Demonstrate effective oral communication skills within their area of specialization  and  be fluent in the specific technical language needed to describe aquaculture production systems, fish diseases, fish nutrition, fisheries management, etc.  
• Be able to effectively write about their area of expertise (nutrition, genetics, conservation, etc.) using the appropriate scientific terminology.  
• Gain practical knowledge and skills to be competitive in the job market .  

CURRICULUM & REQUIREMENTS

The doctoral program emphasizes original scholarly research and includes significant advanced coursework. The Ph .D.  requires a minimum of 60 semester credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree, of which a minimum of 31 hours must be taken through Auburn University, and a dissertation describing original research.  

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE COURSE CURRICULUM  

Master of Science (M.S.)

The Master of Science degree prepares our graduates for careers in aquatic resource or aquaculture as well as further studies toward a Ph.D.

Graduates who have earned an M.S. in fisheries, aquaculture and aquatic sciences will:  

• Demonstrate effective oral communication skills within their area of specialization, for example, be fluent in the specific technical language needed to describe aquaculture production systems, fish diseases, fish nutrition, fisheries management, etc.  
• Be able to effectively write about their area of expertise using the appropriate scientific terminology.  

A minimum of 30 semester hours of 6000-level or above is required. A minimum of 21 semester hours (which includes  FISH 7990 ) of 6000-level and above courses must be taken within the major area of concentration and at least an additional 9 hours taken in a separate but closely related area of concentration. A minimum of 4 semester hours of  FISH 7990  (Research and Thesis) is required but no more than 6 semester hours may be counted toward the degree.   

In addition to the required coursework, the student must complete research and a written thesis and pass a comprehensive examination on research and course work as defined by the student’s advisory committee.  

CLICK HERE FOR THE COURSE CURRICULUM  

Graduate Degrees & Programs

Research office, financial aid & scholarships, career discovery, student services.

Graduate Degree Programs M.S., M.P.S. or Ph.D. in Aquatic & Fisheries Science

Study in this area provides students with advanced preparation in biological concepts of fish and aquatic sciences as they relate to resource management.

Graduate education is rapidly becoming a universal prerequisite to employment as a professional fisheries or aquatic biologist. A major strength is the diversity of cooperators including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Geological Survey and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

ESF is a specialized unit within the SUNY system focused to natural resources and the environment. Perhaps nowhere in the world is there a larger grouping of ecologists dedicated to solving environmental problems through research, teaching and service. With a total enrollment of about 1,000 undergraduates and 400 graduate students, ESF's size creates an intimate College community. The low student/faculty ratio also allows for an active advisory system that provides personal attention and assistance for students. The proximity of the adjacent Syracuse University gives students the added resources of a large, comprehensive institution of higher education, including an array of courses, computer and library facilities, and sports and health services.

ESF's field stations are unmatched, and those with an aquatics programming include the 6,000-hectare Huntington Forest and associated   Adirondack Ecological Center , the   Cranberry Lake Biological Station   in the Adirondack Mountains and the   Thousand Islands Biological Station   on the St. Lawrence River. These properties form a strong foundation for much of the coursework and field research for graduate students. Undergraduates in Fish and Wildlife Science spend a summer taking classes at Cranberry Lake. Qualified undergraduates are encouraged to intern as field assistants with graduate students to gain direct experience with aquatic research.

The AFS students are offered unique opportunities working in a variety of research and management facilities on and off campus. Many of these locations offer seasonal and academic year positions for students. Significant facilities upgrades have occurred to enhance aquatic research programs.

• Center for Integrated Teaching and Research in Aquatic Sciences
• Thousand Islands Biological Station
• Cranberry Lake Biological Station
• Adirondack Ecological Center
• Restoration Science Center
• American Fisheries Society ESF Student Chapter
• Carpenter's Brook Fish Hatchery

Research themes in AFS are diverse and include parasitology, zebrafish colony management, fish growth, otolith microchemistry, population ecology and habitat relationships, predator ecology, fish behavior, endangered species and diversity studies, feeding ecology of fishes, stream ecology, Great Lakes fisheries, ecology of larval fishes and estuarine properties of Great Lakes wetlands, invasive species ecology, limnology, trophic dynamics, environmental change among many others (see participating faculty).

Careers in Aquatic & Fisheries Sciences

Graduates of the AFS program have a diverse array of career opportunities. Placement rates are high in the areas of fisheries science, wetland science, limnology, marine biology, and oceanography. Jobs are available in public and private sections at local, state, national and international locales with federal and state agencies, research institutions, private consulting firms and nongovernmental organizations. Graduate degrees will broaden career options and lead to positions with greater responsibility and higher salary. To pursue a career in research and teaching in a university, a Ph.D. is generally required.

Our graduates have become

• University or College Professor
• Government Scientists
• Policy Leaders
• Conservationists
• Consultants
• Aquatic Biologists
• Fish Pathologists
• Fisheries Biologists, Hatchery Managers, and Fisheries Managers
• Limnologists
• Ichthyologists
• Wetlands Scientists
• Science Teachers
• Restoration Ecologists
• Habitat Biologists
• Aquaculturists
• Biological Technicians
• Toxicologists
• and Marine Resources Specialists

Many who earn degrees in fisheries and aquatic biology find employment with state and federal conservation agencies, the forest industry, and environmental engineering and consulting firms. Graduates are not limited to these fields, however, because the wildlife biology curriculum emphasizes analytical/quantitative tools, management and planning concepts, and communication and teamwork skills, leading many into careers in technical and people-oriented fields, including the computer industry, medicine, teaching, and government.

A graduate degree enhances career opportunities and is often essential to those wishing to move into positions of significant responsibility for supervising management programs and conducting research projects. Graduate degrees substantially augment capabilities with computers and field biology, and provide valuable experience with problem-solving, communication and leadership. Certification by the American Fisheries Society also enhances career opportunities because many state and federal agencies, and consulting firms give hiring preference to those who are certified.

Participating Faculty

• Dr. John Farrell , Professor, Aquatic & Fisheries Science Program Coordinator; Director, Thousand Islands Biological Station (TIBS)   [email protected] , 315-470-6990 Aquatic Ecology, Fisheries Management
• Dr. Karin Limburg , Professor [email protected] , 315-470-6741 Fish Ecology and Management
• Dr. Roxanne Razavi   , Assistant Professor [email protected] , 315-470-6739 Ecotoxicology, Limnology, Environmental Toxicology,
• Dr. Kimberly Schulz , Associated Professor and Director of Center for Integrated Teaching and Research in Aquatic Sciences [email protected] , 315-470-6924 Limnology and Marine Ecology
• Dr. Christopher Whipps , Professor [email protected] , 315-470-4762 Fish Pathology, Systematics and Evolution

• Doctor of Philosophy in Oceans and Fisheries (PhD)
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Canadian Immigration Updates

Review details about the recently announced changes to study and work permits that apply to master’s and doctoral degree students. Read more

Go to programs search

The Program is full-time, consisting of courses and research, designed to train marine and freshwater scientists in basic and applied research that will help foster healthy marine and freshwater ecosystems and sustainable resource use. The Program draws on the broad and extensive expertise of faculty associated with the Institute and responds to the emerging need for expertise to manage fisheries and other resource use activities on Canada’s coastlines, marine territory and inland waterbodies. Ph.D. candidates deepen their interdisciplinary expertise and acquire professional experience in areas including fisheries science, aquatic ecology, environmental physiology, natural resource economics, marine governance, and climate change. In the process, the program fosters cutting-edge research on marine and freshwater systems, and addresses national and global priorities in environmental science and technologies, and natural resources and energy.

For specific program requirements, please refer to the departmental program website

What makes the program unique?

Faculty members hold joint appointments with Zoology, Anthropology, Geography, History, Statistics, Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability, the UBC Policy School, and Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences. This integration of natural and applied management and sustainability graduate training streams differentiates the program from all other related programs in the province and is a key strength of the program.

The Program builds on a proven record of accomplishment where the core faculty of the former UBC Fisheries Centre has supervised several hundred graduate students through Zoology and Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability (RES) graduate programs. This program will bring together components of the natural science-type graduate programs (i.e., the Zoology Graduate Program and Oceanography Graduate Program) with the applied management and sustainability-type programs (i.e., Resources and Environmental Sustainability Graduate Program) and build on their collective strengths.

Quick Facts

Program enquiries, admission information & requirements, program instructions.

Please consult this webpage for full details on how to apply:  https://oceans.ubc.ca/graduate-program/prospective-students/admissions/  

1) Check Eligibility

Minimum academic requirements.

The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies establishes the minimum admission requirements common to all applicants, usually a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC). The graduate program that you are applying to may have additional requirements. Please review the specific requirements for applicants with credentials from institutions in:

• Canada or the United States
• International countries other than the United States

Each program may set higher academic minimum requirements. Please review the program website carefully to understand the program requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission as it is a competitive process.

English Language Test

Applicants from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must provide results of an English language proficiency examination as part of their application. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application.

Minimum requirements for the two most common English language proficiency tests to apply to this program are listed below:

TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet-based

Overall score requirement : 100

IELTS: International English Language Testing System

Overall score requirement : 7.0

Other Test Scores

Some programs require additional test scores such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Test (GMAT). The requirements for this program are:

The GRE is not required.

Prior degree, course and other requirements

Course requirements.

A Master's degree (or equivalent) from an approved institution with clear evidence of research ability or potential.

Document Requirements

• Three Reference Letters. Ideally, the referees should be faculty members who have supervised your studies and/or research directly.
• Curriculum Vitae. 
• Statement of Intent outlining your research experience, proposed research project (or ideas), and explaining your interest in working with the particular faculty member(s).
• Scanned copies of up-to-date unofficial transcripts of marks from all post-secondary institutions attended. Official copies of transcripts will need to be mailed in order to register for courses.

Other Requirements

Firm commitment from a faculty member to fund and act as supervisor is required in order to be considered.

Please review list of faculty here:  https://oceans.ubc.ca/people/  

2) Meet Deadlines

September 2025 intake, application open date, canadian applicants, international applicants, deadline explanations.

Deadline to submit online application. No changes can be made to the application after submission.

Deadline to upload scans of official transcripts through the applicant portal in support of a submitted application. Information for accessing the applicant portal will be provided after submitting an online application for admission.

Deadline for the referees identified in the application for admission to submit references. See Letters of Reference for more information.

3) Prepare Application

Transcripts.

All applicants have to submit transcripts from all past post-secondary study. Document submission requirements depend on whether your institution of study is within Canada or outside of Canada.

Letters of Reference

A minimum of three references are required for application to graduate programs at UBC. References should be requested from individuals who are prepared to provide a report on your academic ability and qualifications.

Statement of Interest

Many programs require a statement of interest , sometimes called a "statement of intent", "description of research interests" or something similar.

• Supervision

Students in research-based programs usually require a faculty member to function as their thesis supervisor. Please follow the instructions provided by each program whether applicants should contact faculty members.

Instructions regarding thesis supervisor contact for Doctor of Philosophy in Oceans and Fisheries (PhD)

Contact by email. Listing is here:  https://oceans.ubc.ca/people/

Citizenship Verification

Permanent Residents of Canada must provide a clear photocopy of both sides of the Permanent Resident card.

4) Apply Online

All applicants must complete an online application form and pay the application fee to be considered for admission to UBC.

Research Information

Research highlights.

The impacts of the Institute’s research on aquatic issues extend far beyond our academic home at UBC. Our research has influenced public policy concerning the management of fisheries, the establishment of marine protected areas, industrial fishing practices, and the economic structure of fisheries. We also undertake a wide variety of educational and public outreach initiatives, in Canada and beyond.

Visit our research impacts page to read about topics and initiatives such as:

Toward Sustainable Chinese Medicine

UBC’s Blue Whale Project

Research Focus

Our research themes are:

Ecology and Biology: From viruses and microbes to phyto-plankton and zooplankton. From seahorses to whales. From freshwater to the high seas. Our researchers cover the world examining species ecology, animal behaviour and movement, and their interactions with humans, as indicators of ecosystem change.

Ecosystem Modelling: Ecosystem modelling approaches and tools, such as Ecopath with Ecosim (EwE), decision-support software tools, manage-ment strategy evaluations, dynamic population models and Bayesian statistical methods, species distribution models and habitat modelling, and statistical analyses of fisheries and fisheries ecosystems help us understand the past, present and future of our shared marine resources.

Human, Social and Economic Dimensions: Our oceans and freshwater systems are a powerful part of our human conscious-ness. We know that human impacts have, for the most part been destructive; how do we change that so that the marine ecosystems that feed us, employ us, and support us can be sustained in an equitable, restorative, and resilient way.

Sustainability and Policy: We only have one Earth: how can we sustain it? Analyzing and predicting climate change impacts, advancing marine conservation, offering mitigation and adaptation solutions, conducting collaborative interdisciplinary research and resource management, and seeking practical solutions in local, regional, and global policy forums.

Research Facilities

The IOF is housed in the Aquatic Ecosystems Research Laboratory (AERL), an $8.9-million facility offering 55,000 square feet for research, collaboration and teaching. A four-storey open atrium connects interdisciplinary research groups throughout the building. Adjacent to the atrium, social spaces promote a sense of community and encourage interaction between students, faculty and staff. Large public rooms on the ground floor provide a welcoming environment for academic and social events. The upper floors house offices, digital laboratories and a variety of meeting spaces, such as the Hakai Node.

Tuition & Financial Support

Financial support.

Applicants to UBC have access to a variety of funding options, including merit-based (i.e. based on your academic performance) and need-based (i.e. based on your financial situation) opportunities.

Program Funding Packages

The Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries (IOF) has a funding policy that guarantees a minimum level of support to all Ocean and Fisheries (OCF) students. The minimum level of support is intended to assist with various aspects of student life including the cost of living and tuition, and may change yearly to account for changes in these costs, see below for the exact amount.

Please consult this page for detailed funding information:  https://oceans.ubc.ca/graduate-program/funding/  

Average Funding

Based on the criteria outlined below, 21 students within this program were included in this study because they received funding through UBC in the form of teaching, research, academic assistantships or internal or external awards averaging $33,929 .

• 6 students received Teaching Assistantships. Average TA funding based on 6 students was $6,969.
• 17 students received Research Assistantships. Average RA funding based on 17 students was $23,183.
• 6 students received Academic Assistantships. Average AA funding based on 6 students was $3,147.
• 21 students received internal awards. Average internal award funding based on 21 students was $9,605.
• 2 students received external awards. Average external award funding based on 2 students was $28,000.

Scholarships & awards (merit-based funding)

All applicants are encouraged to review the awards listing to identify potential opportunities to fund their graduate education. The database lists merit-based scholarships and awards and allows for filtering by various criteria, such as domestic vs. international or degree level.

Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA)

Many professors are able to provide Research Assistantships (GRA) from their research grants to support full-time graduate students studying under their supervision. The duties constitute part of the student's graduate degree requirements. A Graduate Research Assistantship is considered a form of fellowship for a period of graduate study and is therefore not covered by a collective agreement. Stipends vary widely, and are dependent on the field of study and the type of research grant from which the assistantship is being funded.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA)

Graduate programs may have Teaching Assistantships available for registered full-time graduate students. Full teaching assistantships involve 12 hours work per week in preparation, lecturing, or laboratory instruction although many graduate programs offer partial TA appointments at less than 12 hours per week. Teaching assistantship rates are set by collective bargaining between the University and the Teaching Assistants' Union .

Graduate Academic Assistantships (GAA)

Academic Assistantships are employment opportunities to perform work that is relevant to the university or to an individual faculty member, but not to support the student’s graduate research and thesis. Wages are considered regular earnings and when paid monthly, include vacation pay.

Financial aid (need-based funding)

Canadian and US applicants may qualify for governmental loans to finance their studies. Please review eligibility and types of loans .

All students may be able to access private sector or bank loans.

Foreign government scholarships

Many foreign governments provide support to their citizens in pursuing education abroad. International applicants should check the various governmental resources in their home country, such as the Department of Education, for available scholarships.

Working while studying

The possibility to pursue work to supplement income may depend on the demands the program has on students. It should be carefully weighed if work leads to prolonged program durations or whether work placements can be meaningfully embedded into a program.

International students enrolled as full-time students with a valid study permit can work on campus for unlimited hours and work off-campus for no more than 20 hours a week.

A good starting point to explore student jobs is the UBC Work Learn program or a Co-Op placement .

Tax credits and RRSP withdrawals

Students with taxable income in Canada may be able to claim federal or provincial tax credits.

Canadian residents with RRSP accounts may be able to use the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP) which allows students to withdraw amounts from their registered retirement savings plan (RRSPs) to finance full-time training or education for themselves or their partner.

Please review Filing taxes in Canada on the student services website for more information.

Cost Estimator

Applicants have access to the cost estimator to develop a financial plan that takes into account various income sources and expenses.

Career Outcomes

Career options.

The Program produces research scientists with the research capacity and knowledge translation skills necessary for influential careers in academia, industry, government, and consulting. Ph.D. candidates gain exposure to potential future careers and develop professional connections through cooperation and interaction with a diverse partner group in industry (e.g., United Fisherman and Allied Workers Union), consulting (e.g., LGL limited), government (e.g., Fisheries and Oceans Canada, B.C. Ministry of the Environment), and non-governmental organizations (e.g., Suzuki Foundation, Hakai Institute).

Enrolment, Duration & Other Stats

These statistics show data for the Doctor of Philosophy in Oceans and Fisheries (PhD). Data are separated for each degree program combination. You may view data for other degree options in the respective program profile.

ENROLMENT DATA

Admissions data refer to all UBC Vancouver applications, offers, new registrants for each registration year, May to April, e.g. data for 2022 refers to programs starting in 2022 Summer and 2022 Winter session, i.e. May 1, 2022 to April 30, 2023. Data on total enrolment reflects enrolment in Winter Session Term 1 and are based on snapshots taken on November 1 of each registration year. Program completion data are only provided for datasets comprised of more than 4 individuals. Graduation rates exclude students who transfer out of their programs. Rates and times of completion depend on a number of variables (e.g. curriculum requirements, student funding), some of which may have changed in recent years for some programs.

• Research Supervisors

Advice and insights from UBC Faculty on reaching out to supervisors

These videos contain some general advice from faculty across UBC on finding and reaching out to a supervisor. They are not program specific.

This list shows faculty members with full supervisory privileges who are affiliated with this program. It is not a comprehensive list of all potential supervisors as faculty from other programs or faculty members without full supervisory privileges can request approvals to supervise graduate students in this program.

• Auger-Methe, Marie (Fisheries sciences; Statistics; Zoology; Animal movement; Polar ecology; Statistical Ecology)
• Cheung, Wai Lung (Global change biology; Ecological impacts of climate change; climate change; Marine Ecosystems; sustainability; biodiversity; Interdisciplinary)
• Christensen, Villy (Fisheries management; Global change biology; Ecosystem function; Ecosystem modelling)
• Donner, Simon (Atmospheric sciences; Oceanography; Other media and communication; Climate Science; climate change impacts; Climate policy; Coastal Ecosystems; Marine Environment; Climate modelling and prediction; Science communication; Net-zero emissions; Coral reefs)
• Harley, Christopher (Fisheries sciences; Zoology; climate change; community ecology; Ecology and Quality of the Environment; marine algae; marine invertebrates)
• Hunt, Brian (Marine ecology (including marine ichthyology); Biological oceanography; Biodiversity; Ecosystem function; Ecological impacts of climate change; Community ecology (except invasive species ecology); marine food webs; ecosystem oceanography; plankton dynamics; open ocean; Coastal Ecosystems; climate change impacts on the ocean; salmon ecology; food web nutrition; microplastics; stable isotopes; forage fish; zooplankton; Urban oceans; Thiamine defficiency; Stormwater)
• McAllister, Murdoch (Statistical methods for fisheries risk assessment, estimation, decision analysis and management strategy evaluation)
• Pakhomov, Yevhenii (Feeding ecophysiology of aquatic invertebrates and fishes, Antarctic ecology, Antarctic krill biology, Tunicate biology, Fishery ecology, Stable isotope ecology)
• Pauly, Daniel (World fisheries; Marine life; Global catch; Management of fisheries; Fish growth and ecophysiology)
• Reid, Andrea (Fisheries sciences; Culturally significant fish and fisheries)
• Rosen, David (Animal physiology; Physiology, behaviour, and ecology of marine mammals;; Bioenergetics; Nutrition; Conservation physiology)
• Sumaila, Ussif Rashid (Bioeconomics, marine ecosystem valuation and the analysis of global issues such as fisheries subsidies, IUU (illegal, unreported and unregulated) fishing and the economics of high and deep seas fisheries)
• Suttle, Curtis (Bioinformatics; Fisheries sciences; Immunology; Microbiology; Oceanography; Plant biology; Biological Oceanography; Environmental Virology; Marine Environment; Marine Microbiology; Microbial Diversity; Phage; Viral Discovery; Viruses)
• Trites, Andrew (marine mammals, seals, sea lions, whales, dolphins, fisheries competition, population biology, ecology, Marine mamals research centre, biology of marine mammals, population dynamics, bioenergetics, fisheries)
• Vincent, Amanda (Ecological applications, n.e.c.; Marine ecology (including marine ichthyology); Biodiversity; Natural environment sustainability studies; Natural resource management; Wildlife and habitat management)

Doctoral Citations

Sample thesis submissions.

• Archaeological investigations and ecological modelling into pre-contact (1792 CE) Tsleil-Waututh stewardship of Burrard Inlet, BC, Canada
• Rapid and long-term environmental changes and the status of biodiversity in the Canadian Beaufort Sea ecosystem
• The effects of trophic interactions and climate change on the space use of an Arctic marine mesopredator

Related Programs

Same specialization.

• Master of Science in Oceans and Fisheries (MSc)

Further Information

Specialization.

Within Oceans and Fisheries marine and freshwater scientists train to undertake basic and applied research that will help foster healthy marine and freshwater ecosystems and sustainable resource use. Students will deepen and broaden their interdisciplinary expertise by acquiring in-depth training in fisheries science, aquatic ecology, environmental physiology, natural resource economics, marine governance, and climate change.

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Institute of Marine Sciences

• Opportunities

IMS Director

Christina Ravelo, Interim Director of the Institute of Marine Sciences Continue»

IMS  News

Photo  Journal

CONTACT  INFORMATION

• IMS Earth and Marine Sciences Building Marine Analytical Lab Office: Main UCSC Campus
• IMS Ocean Health Building Administrative Offices: Coastal Science Campus
• Scientific Diving and Boating Safety Program
• IMS Fisheries Collaborative Program (FCP): Coastal Science Campus

AFFILIATED DEPARTMENTS:

• Ecology & Evolutionary Biology
• Ocean Sciences
• Earth & Planetary Sciences
• Microbiology & Environmental Toxicology
• Chemistry & Biochemistry
• Environmental Studies
• Coastal Science and Policy Program

MARINE-RELATED DEGREE PROGRAMS BY DEPARTMENT:

• Ecology & Evolutionary Biology: Marine Biology BS
• Ecology & Evolutionary Biology: Graduate Program (PhD & MS)
• Earth Sciences: Graduate Program (PhD & MS)
• Ocean Sciences: Undergraduate Courses
• Ocean Sciences: Graduate Program (PhD & MS)
• Earth Sciences & Ocean Sciences: Environmental Sciences BS
• Coastal Science and Policy: Graduate Program (PhD & MS)

More  Links & Contacts

• IMS Researcher appointments
• IMS Student Research and Education Awards

STRANDED, SICK, INJURED, OR DEAD SEA ANIMALS:

• Sick or Injured Seabirds: Native Animal Rescue  831-462-0726 .
• Sick, Stranded, or Injured Seals, Sea Lions: The Marine Mammal Center    831-633-6298
• Sick, Stranded, or Injured Sea Otters: The Marine Mammal Center    831-633-6298 or Monterey Bay Aquarium  831-648-4840
• Dead Sea Otters: California Department of Fish and Wildlife [email protected]   831-687-8776
• Sick, Injured, or Dead Dolphins or Whales; and Dead Seals, Sea Lions, or Sea Turtles: Long Marine Lab  831-212-1272

Support  IMS

Private support has been critical to the success of our marine and coastal sciences research and public education. It leverages and validates the work done with public funding, opens new doors and provides new opportunities. We are seeking significant new philanthropic investment in our programs and facilities. In addition to funding research, it is critical that we keep our facilities safe, up-to-date, and usable for our many diverse research and educational efforts. We know and deeply appreciate that it is private donors who provide the measure of support that has made possible this amazing resource of learning and discovery.

• Institute of Marine Sciences Gift Fund
• Marine Sciences Student Research Awards
• Report an accessibility barrier
• Land Acknowledgment
• Accreditation

Last modified: August 7, 2024 185.80.151.41

School of Fisheries, Aquaculture & Aquatic Sciences

Feeding a growing population and protecting our natural resources..

The School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences at Auburn University is internationally recognized as a premier warm-water fisheries and aquaculture academic program. Through our research, teaching and extension programs we work to advance the boundaries of aquatic sciences, train the next generation of leaders in the field, and help address the needs of citizens of the state, nation and world.

Conducting Saltwater & Freshwater Research

A mission of the School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences is to conduct research on all aspects of water resource management, including aquaculture, aquatic animal health, genomics, aquatic ecology, conservation and fisheries management.

A bachelor’s undergraduate degree in fisheries science will prepare you for employment in commercial aquaculture, aquaculture extension, fish hatchery management, fish population assessment, management of recreational fisheries and enhancement of aquatic environments.

Auburn’s major in Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences offers degree options in aquaculture, fisheries and aquatic resources management and pre-professional.

• Fisheries, Aquaculture & Aquatic Resource Management  – Major option
• Marine Resources Management  – Major option
• FAAS Pre-Vet Med & Pre-Professional – Major option

• Minor in Fisheries, Aquaculture & Aquatic Science

GRADUATE DEGREES

The School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences offers a Master of Aquaculture, Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy graduate degrees. Some program courses related to the socio-economic aspects of aquaculture and fisheries are also provided by the Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology . 

• Fisheries, Aquaculture & Aquatic Sciences (Master’s, PhD)

Information for applying to graduate school for U.S. and international students can be found by visiting Auburn University’s Graduate School . 

Several FAAS faculty are involved in the  Auburn Univeristy Ecology Group , an interdepartmental program consisting of faculty with expertise and research interests in ecology and leading to a graduate minor in ecology. 

The Ecology graduate minor degree is open to graduate students whose thesis or dissertation research will benefit from a broader and enriched perspective in the fundamentals plus application of the ecological sciences.

• Minor in Ecology
• Certification for Aquaculture Professionals (CAP)

The CAP Certification provides a tool for government agencies and privately owned companies to enable their personnel to acquire the necessary training in sustainable aquaculture. To learn more please follow this link:

Training Programs

Customized training programs are designed to fit particular needs of program sponsor(s). Programs may be short- (1-3 weeks) or long-term (4-16 weeks) and are conducted at Auburn University or in host countries where suitable facilities and housing arrangements exist. Cost of a particular program depends on the number of participants, length of program (weeks), amount of travel and program content.

Program Topics

• Aquaculture Production Systems
• Aquatic Animal Health
• Culture of Selected Species
• Educational Tours of Facilities
• Hatchery Techniques
• Nutrition and Practical Feeding Practices
• Pond Design and Construction
• Water Quality

Taking the guesswork out of catfish sperm quality

Majors & minors, graduate degrees & programs, affiliates, emeriti & visiting faculty, graduate students, faas research, e.w. shell fisheries center, faas intranet, multipurpose room reservations, affc newsletters, auburn on the coast newsletters.

School of Fisheries, Aquaculture & Aquatic Sciences 203 Swingle Hall Auburn Univ, AL 36849 (334) 844-4786 [email protected]

Alabama Fish Farming Center

17,450 water acres in production of channel & hybrid catfish on 77 commercial fish farms.

1600 Acres of natural aquatic habitats, fish ponds, aquaculture research, outreach & education.

Alabama Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit

This unit conducts wildlife and fisheries research and promotes the education of  professionals in the southeastern region.

Our Students

Auburn is recognized as one of the leading fisheries and aquaculture schools in the world., fisheries students dive in.

A degree from the School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences at Auburn University prepares students for productive careers in aquaculture, aquatic resource management and ecology, and fisheries biology and management.

Take a look at our student opportunities offered below  or the College of Agriculture’s 20+  Clubs & Organizations .

Student Clubs

Fisheries, college & university student clubs.

Find out more about joining a young professional organization open to any Auburn student interested in fisheries or aquaculture.

• American Fisheries Society
• United States Aquaculture Society (USAS)

Study Abroad

Learn more about COA  Study Abroad  programs and apply!

Internships

Looking to find an aquatic job or get your feet wet in fisheries? The college offers a range of student internships, career services and job opportunities. 

Find out more by visiting our  Career Discovery  page.

Aquaculture Production Research

Aquaculture is a big business in Alabama, contributing more than $160 million to the state’s economy each year.

Aquatic Animal Health Research

Protecting farmed and wild fish stocks from diseases.

Aquatic Ecology & Conservation Biology Research

Exploring aquatic behaviors and environmental stressors for conservation.

Marine & Fisheries Management

Saltwater and freshwater management practices through basic and applied research.

Diverse Water Resources

From clear mountain streams to the deep ocean waves, Alabama harbors abundant and diverse water resources. Students have direct access to the state’s aquatic diversity including springs, swamps, streams, rivers, reservoirs, small impoundments, natural ponds, estuaries and the Gulf of Mexico.

Alabama citizens use these rich water resources for drinking and other household uses, hydroelectric power, irrigation, agriculture, industry and recreation. Approximately 77,000 miles of rivers/streams , more than 200,000 small impoundments , and 42 large reservoirs are found within the state boundaries, and the Mobile basin yields more water per unit drainage area than any other river in the United States.

Underlying these abundant water resources is a diverse physiography that has resulted in the evolution of the most diverse aquatic fauna of any state in North America.  In addition, Alabama provides a spectacular recreational fishery in both freshwater and marine systems.

EXPERTISE & RESEARCH INTERESTS

Sustainable use of aquatic resources is a global and state issue. Balancing the needs of expanding human population with the need for preserving water quality and aquatic fauna requires a fundamental understanding of these resources gained through research.

Aquaculture produces abundant food in both freshwater and marine systems, and seafood is harvested from freshwater and coastal resources.

FAAS experts provide sound research information that is used to educate Alabama policy makers and citizens as well as the scientific community to better manage and conserve aquatic resources. By serving Alabama and providing a research foundation for the wise use of our aquatic resources we are also providing a model for the global community.

Aquaponics Greenhouse, Integrated Plant & Fish Research