Program overview
Take a deep dive into the mysterious world beneath the water’s surface. Become skilled in caring for the aquatic animals and plants that populate our zoos and aquariums, and learn the intricacies of the fastest-growing sector of the food industry: the cultivation of marine and freshwater species. UNE’s bachelor’s degree in Aquaculture and Aquarium Science prepares you for a range of aquatic science professions, and there is no better place for your studies than our unique riverside and oceanfront campus.
Why UNE for Aquaculture and Aquarium Sciences
With the only Bachelor of Science program in Aquaculture and Aquarium Science in the U.S., UNE is the ideal place for your studies. Located at the convergence of the Saco River and Atlantic Ocean, we offer direct access to both fresh and salt waters as well as cutting-edge facilities.
- Recirculating aquaculture, aquaponics, and flow-through seawater systems
- Aquarium Science and Conservation Lab
- Zebrafish facility
- On-campus administration of AALSO (Aquatic Animal Life Support Organization) Level 1 Certification exam
Meet Chris, Aquaculture '22
An aquaculture major interning at an oyster farm in Georgetown, Maine, Chris is learning — hands on — how to raise a sustainable, renewable protein source with the goal of starting his own oyster farm.
Careers
While developing a solid foundation in aquatic sciences, you will acquire strong analytical business skills, master vast technical skills, and nurture your ability to work closely with others through classes, research, and internships. With virtually all of the program's graduates employed in their field or accepted into graduate school within six months of receiving their diplomas, we know that our students leave the program ready to succeed. They have pursued a wide range of professions, including:
- Aquatic Collection Curator
- Entrepreneur
- Breeder
- Water Quality Technician
- Fish Farmer
- Veterinarian
- Hatchery Manager
- Fisheries Biologist
Career Advising
Whether you have a specific career goal in mind or a vague idea of the field that interests you, Career Advising is here to help you plan your next step.
of graduates employed or enrolled in grad school within one year of graduation
(per 2016-2020 graduate surveys)
in Maine for getting a job
(Zippia, 2021)
Student financial services
One of the most important considerations when committing to a college or university is cost. We work with you and your family to help make your education affordable by pricing our tuition competitively and offering financial assistance.
Academics
Examples of available courses
There are many ways you can navigate this major. The following are some examples of the exciting courses that you can take:
- Principles of Aquaculture
- Techniques in Finfish and Shellfish Culture
- Health, Nutrition, and Feeding of Cultured Organisms
- Fish Genetics
- Principles of Aquarium Operations & Science
- Environmental Microbiology
Our 4+1 B.S./M.S. track lets you complete your undergraduate degree and master’s in Biological Sciences in just five years.
To learn more about the program, see the Curriculum or visit the Catalog.
Experiential Learning
Our Aquaculture and Aquarium Science degree program provides a skills-heavy, hands-on curriculum that uses an applied approach to marine and freshwater aquatic sciences, giving you real-world experiences — because studying is not the same as doing.
Skills and opportunities
- Learn to care for aquatic animals and plants
- Design and operate aquaponics systems
- Master the principles of water movement and filtration
- Perform your own research, beginning freshman year
- Attend and present at national conferences
Internships
Our active community partnership with many organizations provides work experience at diverse sites, including:
- Nonesuch Oyster Co.
- New England Aquarium Services
- Saco Salmon Restoration Alliance and Hatchery
- Gaia Live
For more information, contact the College of Arts and Sciences Internship Office Marine Sciences contact Cynthia Simon at (207) 602-2540 or csimon@une.edu.
Global education
See the world
Imagine yourself exploring the coral reefs of Belize, experiencing first-hand the biodiversity off the Panama coast, or snorkeling with Galapagos sea lions. UNE offers several different travel courses, many of which focus on marine life, in a wide variety of locations across the globe. Or perhaps you would prefer a longer immersion experience. We offer semester-long study abroad programs in Spain, France, Iceland, and at our own international campus in Morocco.
Interested in studying abroad? Make a plan with your advisor.
