Plunge into a Thriving Career in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics at UNE

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. 

With the only Bachelor of Science in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics in the U.S., UNE is the ideal place for your studies — and our unique riverside and oceanfront campus offers endless opportunities for hands-on learning.

When you graduate, you’ll be ready for a range of aquatic science professions in the fields of marine and freshwater aquaculture and in the educational, maintenance, and design needs of local, regional, and national aquarium museums and businesses.

Two students test water in the marine science center
A student working with a tall red plant in an aquaponics lab

Why UNE for Your Bachelor of Science in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics?

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. Other benefits of our program include:

  • 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
Headshot of U N E student Will Szumita

Will Szumita ’23

Animal Behavior, Marine Sciences (Marine Biology Track)

Why UNE

One of the best things about marine science at UNE is how hands-on and interactive it is. All of the things that I am doing or have already done are things that people normally don’t do until much later, like in grad school or once they are in their careers. I was doing stuff in lab, dissecting things under microscopes, and getting out on the water in the boats.

We have really knowledgeable and helpful faculty and [professional] staff. They are just awesome to work with and super fun to engage with all around. I think that’s the best part about UNE’s marine science program — you get so much out of your education, and a lot of it is far beyond just reading from a textbook.

Experiential Education

Everything that I am doing is helping me grow as a student. I am an Aquarist and Education Intern at Save the Bay Naragansett in Providence, RI this summer. It’s a nonprofit exploration center and aquarium that focuses on protecting and serving the Narragansett Bay and surrounding areas. 

I am a part of the educational branch in the aquarium and exploration center. All the stuff in the aquarium is from the Narragansett Bay, so a lot of the specimens we've caught ourselves. We educate people about what's in the bay because if they know about what's in the bay, they're more inclined to help protect it. There are a bunch of touch tanks, and I teach people about all of the different animals, and I do science experiments with kids. It’s a combination of doing hands-on work like maintaining tanks and public-facing work like interacting with people and educating. I like it a lot. My education at UNE has taught me about the animals, how to take care of them properly, and how to teach other people about them, which is so cool.

Because I've gotten that education at UNE, I know a lot of stuff about the animals that people might overlook. I think it also goes both ways, so my UNE education is helping my internship, but my internship is also helping further my education. A lot of the stuff that I am learning this summer, I'm very excited to take back to school with me and talk to my professors about. 

I think that’s the best part about UNE’s marine science program — you get so much out of your education, and a lot of it is far beyond just reading from a textbook.

Animal Behavior, Marine Sciences (Marine Biology Track)

What Will You Study? Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics Curriculum Overview

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 and Science
  • Environmental Microbiology

Curriculum

CAS Core RequirementsCredits
Total Credits42
Program Required CoursesCredits
BIO 214/214L – Genetics w/Lab4
BIO 221 – Principles of Aquaculture3
BIO 222/222L – Finfish/Shellfish Culture Tech w/Lab4
BIO 223/223L – Hlth, Nutr, Feed Cultured Org w/Lab4
BIO 234/234L – Environmental Microbiology w/Lab4
BIO 323/323L – Aquarium Science and Operations w/Lab4
BUMG 313 – Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship or BUMK 312 – Entrepreneurship/Sml Business3
CHE 130/130L – Principles of Chemistry w/Lab or CHE 150/150L – University General Chem I w/Lab or CHE 110/110L – General Chemistry I w/Lab4
GIS 161 – GIS I: Fundamentals of Geospatial Science and Technology3
MAR 105/105L – Ecology and Evolution of Marine Organisms w/Lab4
MAR 106/106L – Cellular and Molecular Biology of Marine Organisms w/Lab4
MAR 150/150L – Discovering the Ocean Environment w/Lab or MAR 270/270L – Oceanography w/Lab4
MAR 235 – Sustainable Harvest of Aquatic Organisms3
MAR 250/250L – Marine Biology w/Lab4
MAR 305/305L – Aquatic Health Management w/Lab4
MAR 495 – Adv Marine Science Internship4
MAT 150 – Statistics for Life Sciences or MAT 151 – Statistics for Environmental SciencesCredits Fulfilled by Core Requirements
One (1) course Cellular and Molecular Biology Topic Area Course or Physiology Topic Area Course or Ecology/Evolutionary Biology Topic Area Course*3–4
Total Credits63–64
Minimum Total Required Credits120

*Topic area program required courses are to be selected in consultation with advisor.

Topic Area Courses

Cellular and Molecular Biology
Cellular and Molecular Biology Area CoursesCredits
BIO 203 – Histology4
BIO 290 may fulfill Biology Area requirements depending on the subject matter and advisor permission.3
BIO 365 – Immunology3
BIO 370 – Cell and Molecular Biology3
MAR 220 – Cellular and Molecular Approaches in Marine Science with Lab4
Physiology
Physiology Area CoursesCredits
BIO 208 – Anatomy and Physiology4
BIO 245 – Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathophysiology4
BIO 290 may fulfill Biology Area requirements depending on the subject matter and advisor permission.3
BIO 322 – Comparative Animal Physiology3
BIO 404 – Neuroscience4
MAR 326 – Experimental Animal Physiology3
MAR 424 – Physiological Ecology of Fish4
Ecology/Evolutionary Biology
Ecology/Evolutionary Biology Topic Area CourseCredits
BIO 290 may fulfill Biology Area requirements depending on the subject matter and advisor permission.3
BIO 307 – Conservation Genetics3
BIO 328 – Human Evolution3
BIO 333 – Evolution3
BIO 350 – Ecology4
MAR 335 – Animal/Behavioral Ecology4
MAR 350 – Marine Ecology with Lab4

Recommended Elective Credits (Not required)

  • MAF 200 – Intro to Marine Pollution
  • MAF 210 – Intro to US Ocean Governance
  • MAR 316 – Science in Society
  • MAR 414 – Ocean Food Systems Seminar
  • PHI 201 – Bio-Medical Ethics

Graduation Requirements

A minimum grade of C- must be achieved in all science and mathematics courses used toward graduation in any of the programs in the School of Marine and Environmental Programs. A 2.00 cumulative average in sciences is a requirement for graduation in any of the programs in the School of Marine and Environmental Programs.

Students in this major can participate in the pre-health graduate school preparation tracks.

Meet our faculty and professional staff

Study Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics on the Gulf of Maine

Career Paths for Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics Grads

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. Virtually all of our graduates are employed in their field or accepted into graduate school within six months of receiving their diplomas, so we know that our students leave the program ready to succeedIn fact, 95% of UNE graduates are employed or pursuing higher education within one year of graduating.

  • Aquatic Collection Curator
  • Entrepreneur
  • Breeder
  • Water Quality Technician
  • Fish Farmer
  • Veterinarian
  • Hatchery Manager
  • Fisheries Biologist

Career Advising for Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics

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.

Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics Facilities

UNE offers some of the best research, lab, and classroom facilities in the nation for the study of marine science — including state-of-the-art marine science buildings, a fleet of research vessels, and our own research island — and you can access all of them right from our main campus in Biddeford, Maine.

Take a Virtual Tour of the Marine Science Center

Experiential Learning in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics

Our Bachelor of Science in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics 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.

Clubs for Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics Majors

  • Aquaponics club: Provides learning and leadership opportunities within the School of Marine Programs’ student-managed aquaponics lab. The club is responsible for the establishment and maintenance of systems within the lab space and for tending to the fish and plants the systems are centered around. Club members receive hands-on experience with the plumbing and infrastructure required for recirculating aquaculture systems, as well as IACUC training on how to properly care for the fish in the system in compliance with federal regulations. The club’s efforts culminate in the display of edible plants at the living wall in the commons and in the Edible Campus Markets held twice a year to augment the UNE Sustainability Office’s Edible Campus Initiative.
  • Aquarium club: Students are given the opportunity to learn and take care of fresh and saltwater tanks. Students learn about different species of fish and how to take care of an aquarium. These students are chosen by the advisor to help with care and maintenance.

Internships in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics

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
  • Easy Aquariums

For more information email the Academic and Career Advising Center at advising@shorinji-kempo.net.

Skills and Opportunities learned in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics

  • 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 your first year
  • Attend and present at national conferences

Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics Research Opportunities

Undergraduate research is an essential part of our programs, no matter which major you choose. You will conduct research in the field through your regular coursework beginning in your freshman year, with additional opportunities to gain experience through faculty labs and multi-institutional initiatives. You will perform research beside quality faculty with decades of industry experience and research. 

Research Areas in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics

The field of Marine Science is as broad and diverse as the vast oceans that cover most of our planet. At UNE we touch upon all facets of marine science with special focuses in the following areas of research.

  • Applied Marine Technology
  • Biology of Marine Organisms
  • Food from the Ocean
  • Human Impacts on the Ocean

Learn About Aquaculture Research at UNE

Applied Marine Technology

Applied marine technology is a crucial marine programs research area that cuts across all others. Robotics, research vessels, remote and autonomous underwater vehicles, environmental monitoring, and modeling are all vital tools that enable modern marine research to occur. Researchers in this area are interested in innovations in and novel applications for marine technology.

Aquatic Animal Life Support Systems Operation

Part of our dedication to experiential learning includes providing opportunities to garner real-world skills that make you sought after in the job market and graduate education institutions. A shining example of this is our association with Aquatic Animal Life Support Operators (AALSO). AALSO is a 501 c6 nonprofit organization that focuses on the education and training of aquatic life support operators around the world. AALSO members are those behind the scenes at research institutions and large public aquariums around the world who design, construct, and maintain large aquatic husbandry systems. AALSO provides professional credentialing and proficiency certifications that carry real weight in the industry. UNE is one of only two academic institutions who have been approved by AALSO to administer these tests to our students. Meaning you can walk out the door with a degree in hand, and a professional industry certification in your back pocket.

Researchers:

Boating and Marine Science Seamanship

Boats, for obvious reasons, are important to marine research. At UNE we are fortunate enough to have a fleet of research and education vessels [ATS1] from 18’ to 32’ that are utilized in our programs. Add to this our faculty and professional staff with professional vessel operation credentials and experience operating and conducting science aboard ships and research vessels all over the world — and UNE Marine programs are well suited to help you gain the important technical knowledge needed to be proficient and safe both operating and conducting research at sea.

Researchers: Tim Arienti

Modeling

The oceans cover more than 70% of the planet. The interconnectivity of life and ecosystems in the sea are incredibly complex, and distinctly linked to both the land and our atmosphere. Such complexity is nearly impossible to understand without the powerful predictive capacities of computer models. These models, based on data collected in the field, from satellites, the geological record, and elsewhere, are used to forecast (and hind-cast) everything from fish populations and food webs to ocean circulation, hurricanes, and climate change.

Researchers:

Robotics and Smart Technology

Ocean robotics and smart technology — in the form of underwater drones, manned submersibles, water quality sensors, oceanographic buoys, and camera systems — is a rapidly growing, and increasingly important marine field. In the age of technology, these tools are becoming vital components in enabling cutting-edge marine research across the board. 

Researchers:

Biology of Marine Organisms

Our marine programs faculty and professional staff conduct a wide range of research in the areas of biology and ecology of marine organisms. This research area is very broad and ranges from marine genetics to the migration patterns of large animals like sharks, seals, and whales. From seaweed to sharks — plankton to pinnipeds (seals!) our team covers it all.

Food Web Dynamics

Food web dynamics focuses on how energy moves through organisms in an ecosystem through primary productivity (photosynthesis) and consumers. Researchers in our Marine programs study these interactions to create a “who’s eating who” web of connections between organisms in an ecosystem.

Researchers: Carrie Byron, Ph.D.

Invasive Species

Invasive species are any species introduced to an ecosystem in which they are not native that then go on to cause disruption or harm to the functioning of that ecosystem. Marine organisms are adept at hitching rides in ballast water of ships, through hitchhiking on marine debris, or even through deliberate introduction. Researchers at UNE study these organisms and their ecological interactions and impacts in the Gulf of Maine and beyond.

Researchers: Markus Frederich, Ph.D.

Marine Invertebrates

There are more than 20,000 species of marine and fresh water bony fish on the planet, while mollusks alone (snails, bivalves, etc.) comprise more than 85,000 known species. Of all the expansive biodiversity contained within our oceans, the vast majority is contained within the marine invertebrates. With so much diversity, the opportunities for research in marine invertebrates are almost inexhaustible.

Researchers:

Oceanography

Life in the sea poses challenges unique to oceanic organisms, especially the smallest of those (microorganisms). By virtue of being immersed in water, they are at the mercy of the tides, currents, chemistry, and geology of the sea. Oceanography is the study of these physical properties and processes in the ocean — physical, chemical, and geological. Oceanography researchers at UNE study how these oceanographic components interact with each other and affect life in the sea.

Researchers:

Plankton and Microbes

With few exceptions, marine microbes and plankton form the base of the marine food web. Small but mighty, the plankton are the fuel for life in the sea. Researchers within our Marine programs study many facets of the biology, ecology, and even chemistry of this important and diverse group of organisms.

Researchers:

Sharks and Marine Mammals

The largest organisms in an ecosystem are often sentinels of ecosystem health and serve key roles in the health and balance of our oceans. UNE researchers study the biology and ecology of sharks and marine mammals in the Gulf of Maine and across the globe.

Researchers:

Food from the Ocean

With a global human population headed towards 10 billion by 2050, understanding the interactions between the ocean and what we eat is more important than ever. Our location on the coast of Maine has a deep heritage and connections to the people and communities who have harvested food from the sea, and the ecosystems that provide it. We have robust research and education programs in this focus area, including fisheries science and management, ecological aquaculture, marine entrepreneurship, migration of highly migratory species, and food web ecology.

Fisheries Management and Science

Fisheries science and management are both distinct disciplines that are highly interwoven. Fisheries science creates the knowledge and data used in order for fisheries management to make the best possible policies to manage a fishery. The policies and the priorities set forth by management then in turn creates the framework for fisheries science to design and conduct research. At UNE, we have researchers with expertise on both sides of this important coin.

Researchers: Susan Farady

Ornamental Aquaculture

Globally, the saltwater ornamental fish and aquarium industry is valued at $15 billion, resulting in the importation of more than 400 fish species. And yet, only 10% of these fish are cultured. Ornamental aquaculture is the application of aquaculture techniques and protocols to produce fish and other organisms used for decorative purposes. This practice can help greatly reduce pressure on wild fish populations and increase the sustainability of a hobby growing rapidly on a global scale.

Researchers:

Sustainable Seafood and Aquaculture

The global human population is projected to be more than 10 billion people by 2050. That is a lot of mouths to feed. And yet, while the oceans cover more than 70% of our planet, only 2% of food production (including all fisheries and ocean farms) comes from the sea. In the future there will be by necessity, increased pressure on global oceans to produce food. Much of this will come from ocean-farms producing not only fish, but shellfish, seaweeds, and other marine foods. Researchers in our Marine programs study the entire suite of issues pertaining to seafood and aquaculture.

Researchers:

Human Impacts on the Ocean

Evidence of human impact on the ocean is everywhere, not just limited to our coastal oceans. Plastics and chemicals have been documented from the deepest depths of the global seas, while climate change affects all aspects of the ocean. More and more, we cannot separate studying the natural ocean environment apart from human influence. Fisheries, microplastics, policy, pollution, conservation, and restoration all fall into this category. UNE marine programs faculty, professional staff, and students are focused on research and solutions across the spectrum of human influence on our seas.

Climate Change

Our climate is changing — rapidly. Its impacts are felt broadly across our planet, especially our oceans, which play crucial roles in mediating, moderating, and shaping the global impacts of accelerating planetary change. This is exemplified in our own backyard, where the Gulf of Maine is warming faster than 90% of all other ocean waters. Rather than a discrete area of study, climate change research at UNE Marine Programs is more of an umbrella. One of the most important planetary challenges of our time, climate change research is integrated by necessity into almost all of our Marine Programs research and scholarship areas of focus.

Researchers:

Conservation and Restoration

Not all human impacts on the sea are negative. Human interventions in the forms of conservation and restoration science and policies can produce real and impactful improvement in the marine environment. Ecosystem and habitat restoration, invasive species mitigation and management and ocean advocacy are all part of UNE Marine Programs.

Researchers:

Marine Business and Entrepreneurship

In many ways, the ocean represents a vast resource with the potential for creating economic growth in a sustainable or even restorative fashion. Opportunities here include sustainable fisheries and aquaculture ventures, ocean robotics, sensors and remote sensing, shipping, value-added marine-derived products such as cosmetics and nutraceuticals, even textiles and fashion.

Researchers: Jeri Fox

Marine Pollution

The ocean is downstream of everything and given a long enough period of time, everything ends up in the ocean. Marine pollution impacts our oceans through many pathways and in many forms: excess nutrients and runoff from urban and agricultural lands, bacteria from our wastewater, chemicals from our industries, and plastics from, well, everywhere…are just a few examples. Researchers in our Marine programs look into how the pollutants impact marine organisms and ecosystems, as well as techniques to mitigate and policies to prevent pollution from entering the ocean.

Researchers:

Research Fellowships in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics

In addition to lab classes and faculty lab positions, UNE provides pathways for students to obtain research experience through fellowships from partners and programs including Pratt & Whitney, Bristol Seafood, SEANET, and the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience.

A student in snorkel gear floats at the surface of the ocean while holding small live crabs

Global Education in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics

In addition to opportunities to spend a semester abroad in Tangier, Morocco, or Seville, Spain for the same cost as studying at UNE’s Maine campuses, you may choose to enroll in one of our marine sciences-related travel courses. To enroll in these courses and learn more, visit the Global Education Program website.

Interested in studying abroad? Make a plan with your advisor.

MAR 451: Natural History and Evolution of the Galápagos Fauna

This course is designed to familiarize you with the biota of the Galápagos Islands, island history, ecology, and the behavior and evolution of the islands' animals.

Galápagos Islands Course

Semester-Long Study Abroad Program

Spend a semester abroad in Akureyri on the northeast coast of Iceland. You'll be studying in Iceland's second-largest urban area surrounded by mountains and fjords.

ICELAND PROGRAM

 Faculty and students hike Sólheimajökull glacier

The Institute for North Atlantic Studies of the University of New England is an education and research leader for Maine connected to the North Atlantic/Arctic region grounded in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and built to support local to global collaborative approaches to shared challenges and opportunities.

UNE NORTH

Bachelor of Science in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics FAQ

What is aquaculture?

Aquaculture, sometimes called aquafarming, is the practice of breeding, raising, and harvesting aquatic organisms for various purposes, primarily for human consumption. Think of it as the underwater version of traditional agriculture, but instead of crops and livestock, it’s all about fish, shellfish, algae, and other fascinating creatures.

What is aquarium science?

Aquarium science is a fascinating and diverse field that delves into the biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering aspects of maintaining aquatic life in captivity, primarily within aquariums. It’s not just about keeping pretty fish in a tank; it’s about understanding the complex ecosystem within those walls and ensuring the well-being of all its inhabitants.

What is aquaponics?

Aquaponics is a blend of aquaculture (raising fish) and hydroponics (growing plants without soil), creating a symbiotic ecosystem where both thrive. It’s like a miniature, self-sustaining world where fish waste nourishes plants, and the plants, in turn, purify the water for the fish. Aquaponics can be set up in various scales, from small backyard systems to large commercial operations.

What are the benefits of aquaponics?

Aquaponics boasts a range of impressive benefits, making it a compelling choice for sustainable food production. Here are some of the key advantages:

Water conservation

Aquaponics shines in water efficiency, using up to 90% less water compared to traditional agriculture. This closed-loop system recycles water continuously, minimizing waste and maximizing utilization.

Reduced environmental impact

Chemical-free growth is a hallmark of aquaponics. The reliance on natural fish waste eliminates the need for pesticides and fertilizers, minimizing environmental pollution and promoting healthy soil ecosystems.

Increased yields

Nutrient-rich water delivered directly to plant roots fosters rapid and healthy growth. Studies reveal that aquaponic systems can produce up to twice the yield of traditional soil-based methods.

Year-round production

Controlled environments within aquaponic systems allow for consistent temperature and light conditions, enabling year-round cultivation regardless of the weather outside. This provides greater food security and flexibility for growers.

Reduced labor and maintenance

Aquaponic systems require less manual labor than traditional methods. Automated pumps and filtration systems minimize the need for constant monitoring and intervention.

Space optimization

Aquaponic systems can be designed vertically, maximizing space utilization, and allowing for cultivation in areas with limited land. This is particularly advantageous for urban environments.

Organic and healthy food

The absence of harmful chemicals in aquaponics ensures the production of organic food rich in nutrients and free from pesticide residues. This promotes healthier diets for consumers.

Economic benefits

Aquaponics can offer economic opportunities for individuals and communities. The efficient production of high-quality food can generate income for growers and create local food systems that reduce reliance on external suppliers.

Educational and recreational value

Aquaponic systems can be a valuable learning tool for individuals of all ages, fostering an understanding of sustainable food production and ecological relationships. They can also serve as a fun and rewarding hobby, providing fresh, healthy food while creating a beautiful and educational living space.

What can you do with an aquaculture, aquarium science, and aquaponics degree?

Having a degree in aquaculture, aquarium science, and aquaponics allows you to work with aquatic animals and plants that populate our zoos and aquariums. Many UNE students who graduate with this degree also land jobs working in the fastest growing sector of the food industry: the cultivation of marine and freshwater species.

Virtually all UNE B.S. in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics graduates are employed in their field or accepted into graduate school within six months of receiving their diplomas. Some of the careers and professions they have pursued include:

  • Aquatic Collection Curator
  • Entrepreneur
  • Breeder
  • Water Quality Technician
  • Fish Farmer
  • Veterinarian
  • Hatchery Manager
  • Fisheries Biologist

Learn more about UNE’s Bachelor of Science in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics

What is the best aquaculture, aquarium science, and aquaponics degree program for me?

Below are a few factors that you should look for when searching for an aquaculture, aquarium science, and aquaponics degree program.

Faculty

Figure out your preferences for an instructor and dive into their academic and professional background. Also consider reviewing faculty research to determine the best fit for your educational journey.

The faculty at UNE’s School of Marine and Environmental Programs are experienced, skilled, and supportive. They provide relevant coursework and research opportunities that equips students to excel in their disciplines. Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics students at UNE conduct research with faculty in the field through their regular coursework beginning in their freshman year.

Meet faculty and professional staff in UNE’s School of Marine and Environmental Programs

Curriculum

Take a look at the aquaculture, aquarium science, and aquaponics curriculum and see if it includes a hands-on approach to your undergraduate career.

UNE’s Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics (AAA) 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.

The following are some examples of the exciting courses that you can take as an AAA major:

  • 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

Learn more about UNE’s B.S. in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics curriculum

Career Goals

Determine if the program offers career advising and qualifies you for a lucrative, rewarding aquaculture career.

As an Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics student at UNE in Maine, you will develop a solid foundation in aquatic sciences, acquire strong analytical business skills, master vast technical skills, and nurture your ability to work closely with others through classes, research, and internships.

Some examples of the types of careers UNE students have gone on to pursue after graduating with their bachelors in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics include:

  • Aquatic Collection Curator
  • Entrepreneur
  • Breeder
  • Water Quality Technician
  • Fish Farmer
  • Veterinarian
  • Hatchery Manager
  • Fisheries Biologist

UNE Students can benefit from the support of the Academic and Career Advising Center, whether they have a clear career goal or a general interest in a particular field.

Learn more about Career Advising at UNE

Learning Environment

Ask yourself what kind of environment suits you best. Figure out if you want to stay in your state or if you wish to move. See if you will be inspired or challenged by your fellow students and faculty.

UNE offers a great environment for aquaculture, aquarium science, and aquaponics majors. Overall, UNE boasts small class sizes. We have a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio and an average class size of 20.

Learn more facts about UNE

With the only Bachelor of Science program in Aquaculture, Aquarium Science, and Aquaponics 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.

Learn more about the facilities available to you as a School of Marine and Environmental Programs student

UNE students study abroad at nearly five times the national average. Our Global Education Program offers an array of short-term travel courses to many destinations.

Learn more about study abroad opportunities at UNE

Financial Aid

Consider whether the school you’re interested in provides financial aid or scholarships to support your education.

A UNE undergraduate education is affordable. Our tuition is 16% below the average tuition for private universities in New England. Plus, all incoming full-time undergraduate students at UNE will receive Merit Scholarships in amounts from $5,000 to $22,000 per year.

Learn more about grants and scholarships available to students at UNE