Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences Auburn University

Overview

The Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences programme at Auburn University is recognised globally as a premier centre for the study of warm-water fisheries and aquatic ecosystems. This advanced course of study provides students with the necessary scientific foundation to address the challenges of feeding a growing global population while protecting vital natural resources.

The curriculum is designed to foster a deep comprehension of the scientific method and its application within specialised fields. Students are expected to become fluent in the technical language required to describe complex aquaculture production systems, fish diseases, and fisheries management. The department emphasises the development of both oral and written communication skills to ensure graduates can defend their research relative to primary literature.

Why Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences at Auburn University?

Auburn University hosts one of the world’s leading warm-water fisheries programmes, offering a unique environment for scholarly research and practical training. The institution provides distinctive teaching features, including the opportunity to take coursework for credit at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab or the Gulf Coast Research Lab. These partnerships allow students to engage with diverse aquatic environments beyond the main campus facilities.

The department offers significant financial support through graduate assistantships for both Master’s and Doctoral candidates. These positions are typically provided on a 12-month basis, reflecting the university's commitment to intensive research and academic excellence. Students benefit from a faculty-led approach where prospective candidates are encouraged to identify a mentor to support their application and research goals.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 17993 per semester
• National fee: USD 17993 per semester
• Local fee: USD 6653 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The doctoral track requires a minimum of 60 semester credit hours, while the Master of Science requires at least 30 hours of advanced coursework. Modules may include:

• Aquaculture Production Systems
• Fish Diseases
• Fish Nutrition
• Fisheries Management
• Aquatic Ecology
• Aquatic Resource Management
• Fisheries Biology
• Genetics
• Conservation
• Research and Thesis

Careers with Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences

Graduates are prepared for productive professional roles across various sectors, including academia, private industry, and public governmental organisations. The practical knowledge and technical skills gained during the programme ensure that students remain highly competitive in the global job market. Many alumni secure positions dedicated to the sustainable management of aquatic resources and the advancement of aquaculture technologies.

Common career paths include roles in fisheries biology, environmental consultancy, and aquatic resource management. The rigorous training in research and the scientific method also provides a strong foundation for those pursuing high-level research positions or teaching roles within university settings. Graduates contribute significantly to the fields of fish health, nutrition, and ecological conservation on a global scale.