Aquaculture Degrees: Online and Distance Learning Program

<p>While there are no online degree programs in aquaculture, you can earn an advanced aquaculture certificate completely via distance learning. This type of program might be a good fit for you if you've studied or are currently studying <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Online_Marine_Biology_Schools_and_Degrees_FAQs.html">marine biology</a> or a related area, and you wish to acquire specialized aquaculture knowledge that can help you find work in the field after graduation. Your required curriculum in an online aquaculture certificate program typically will consist of courses like the following: </p> <ul><li>Fishery facilities management </li><li>Freshwater supply quality </li><li>Aquatic biology </li><li>Fish nutrition and disease control </li><li>Hatchery operations </li></ul><p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>Online Programs</b></td><td> Advanced aquaculture certificate</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Common Certificate Courses</b></td><td> Fisheries management, aquatic biology, hatchery operations</td></tr> <tr><td><b>On-campus Degrees</b></td><td> Associate's degree, certificate program</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Common Courses </b></td><td> Chemistry, microbiology, ecology, aquatic genetics</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td>$29,130 <i>(Farmworkers, Farm, Ranch, and Aquacultural Animals)</i></td></tr> <tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td>6% decline <i>(Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers)</i></td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)</i> </p> <h3 id="section---HowDoesOnlineStudyWork">How Does Online Study Work?</h3> <p>In an online certificate program in aquaculture, course materials are transmitted through online teaching and learning platforms that allow you to access and submit all of your work, including lectures, readings, exams and papers. Most online course platforms also have chat, message board and e-mail functions, enabling you to communicate with professors and participate in discussions with fellow students. To complete an online program, you'll need an Internet-connected computer, as well as software like Windows or Adobe Reader to view lectures and type papers. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatWillILearnInAnOnCampusAquacultureProgram">What Will I Learn in an On-Campus Aquaculture Program?</h3> <p>Through an on-campus program, you typically can earn a certificate or associate's degree in aquaculture technology. Some schools offer certificates at both undergraduate and graduate levels. You can generally complete a certificate program in a year of full-time study, while associate's degree programs often take two years. </p> <p>In an on-campus aquaculture certificate program, you'll study the same topics you would in an online program. However, you'll also be required to complete several hands-on practicums in aquaculture. You might perform these practicums at on-campus freshwater facilities or at nearby fisheries or hatcheries affiliated with your institution. </p> <p>As a student in an aquaculture associate's degree program, you'll explore the same foundational concepts as in a certificate program, in addition to learning about biological and technological aspects of aquaculture. Commonly required courses include microbiology, ecology, nutrition, chemistry and aquatic genetics. You'll also gain a multitude of skills related to the practical management of aquatic fishery through classes in hatchery operations, general agricultural business management, forestry, freshwater sanitation, soil science and fish disease control. Additionally, you'll complete several aquaculture practicums.</p>