Aquatic Biology Degree and Training Program Overviews
Learn about degree programs in aquatic biology. Find out about program requirements and courses, as well as some popular career choices, the employment outlook and salary trends for aspiring aquatic biologists.
Aquatic biology, sometimes called aquatic resources, involves the scientific understanding and conservation of freshwater ecosystems. Bachelor's, master's and doctorate degrees are available in this discipline. Aquatic biology is most often a concentration or emphasis within a related environmental science or biology degree program, especially at the graduate levels. A bachelor's degree could be sufficient for entry-level work as an aquatic biologist, though master's and doctoral programs can prepare students for more advanced research or college-level teaching positions.
Bachelor of Science Degree in Aquatic Biology
Aquatic biology studies encompass bodies of fresh water, native living organisms and the human culture that affects these ecosystems. Many programs offering a Bachelor of Science require the student to participate in fieldwork studies, which may be completed as part of the regular school year or as a summer program. Chemistry, math and statistics classes are emphasized along with biology in order to teach students how to think analytically when balancing ecological concerns with the needs of the surrounding community. Students are also either required or encouraged to take classes in communications to prepare them for writing reports and dealing effectively with the public. Some of the undergraduate programs require the student to begin with a pre-biology major before being accepted into the aquatic biology program.
Course plans are designed to give students an overall understanding of the composition of fresh-water ecosystems, as well as how nature biologists and industrialists can work towards common goals. Classes cover topics such as:
- Freshwater entomology
- Freshwater botany
- Environmental studies
- Community and ecology
Bachelor's degree holders are qualified for entry-level research and consulting positions. Typical career fields include:
- State wildlife, fisheries and natural resource departments
- Research and analysis of environmental issues for private consulting firms
- Public and private hatcheries and hydroponics
- Water pollution research for municipal departments
Master of Science in Aquatic Biology
Master's degree programs are designed primarily for students who wish to pursue careers in research or public education. Programs may also be required as a prelude to a doctorate in aquatic and fisheries science in some schools or universities. Research projects in aquatic biology require the student to perform fieldwork, and in some cases, an internship. Both thesis and non-thesis programs are available.
Master's degree program applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in biology or a related discipline. Graduate test scores, such as from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), and letters of recommendation may also be required.
Courses for an aquatic biology degree focus heavily on environmental science and management techniques. Common coursework covers topics such as:
- Aquaculture pathology and utilization
- Sustainable fisheries
- Ecology behavior and evolution
- Management and impact of wildlife and recreation
- Environmental ecotoxicology
- Biogeographical studies
- Stream and reservoir ecology
Employment Outlook and Salary Info
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in May 2012 aquatic biologists, who are included in the wildlife biologist category, earned an average yearly salary of $62,500 and were employed mostly by state and federal government agencies. Overall employment of wildlife biologists is expected to grow at a slower-than-average rate of 7% between 2010 and 2020. Environmental scientists made an average annual wage of $68,970 in May 2012, with a projected growth rate of 19% from 2010-2020, which is about as fast as average.
Ph.D. in Aquatic Science
Ph.D. in Aquatic Biology programs focus on sustainable aquaculture. These degree programs are primarily designed for those who intend to lead research projects or become professors. Within the program, students tailor their curriculum to meet their personal needs. Students must complete an original research project that culminates in a dissertation that must be approved by and presented in front of an academic panel.
Some schools allow students to pursue a doctorate only after receiving a master's degree and others have options to bypass the master's and go directly into a Ph.D. program. Applicants are also required to demonstrate scholarly writing, provide letters of recommendation and submit a goal statement.
Graduate students participate in original research projects and specialized coursework in aquatic biology. Sample coursework may include:
- Global aquatic resource studies
- Water resource integrated management
- Microbial aquatic ecology
- Aquatic macrophyte ecology and management
- Polluted aquatic resource restoration
- Human disease and aquatic health ecology
Ph.D. graduates can find career opportunities at local, state and federal inspection organizations and federal regulatory research facilities, as well as in museums and academia. Possible job titles include:
- Biological scientist
- Aquatic researcher
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