BSc. Fisheries and Aquaculture

The B.Sc. Fisheries and Aquaculture program centres on the sustainable production and management of aquatic organisms, both in freshwater and marine environments. As global seafood consumption continues to rise, the program addresses crucial aspects like fish biology, breeding, disease management, and innovative farming systems. Students gain insights into aquaculture production systems, fish nutrition, and environmental impacts. Additionally, the curriculum delves into fisheries science, focusing on the assessment and sustainable management of wild fish populations. Blending theoretical study with hands-on field and laboratory work, graduates are equipped to drive advancements in sustainable aquatic food production, conservation, and ecosystem health, aligning with global demands and environmental imperatives.

Admission Requirements

Candidates are admitted into the degree programme in any of the following ways:

1. Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME)
2. Direct entry

UTME: Four-Year Degree Programme

in addition to the UTME score, the candidate should possess five credit passes in Senior Secondary Certificate (SSC) to include English Language, Mathematics, Biology or Agricultural Science, Chemistry and Physics in not more than two sittings.

Direct entry mode

Candidates must have at least 2 credit passes in advanced level or its equivalents in Chemistry and Biology plus Five SSC (or its equivalent) credit pass prescribed for UTME entry mode. Diploma Holders in Fisheries and Aquaculture and related fields with a minimum of Lower Credit plus Five SSC (or its equivalent) credit pass Level at a maximum of two sittings are eligible for consideration for admission into 200 level.

Graduation requirements

To be eligible for graduation, a student must have satisfied the following:

1. The minimum credit units required of 120 for students admitted through UTME and 40 for direct entry;
2. The stipulated number of years for graduation;
3. All core and required courses as indicated in this CCMAS; and
4. Prerequisite courses and pass them before registration for a corresponding course at a higher level.

For graduates with a B.Sc. in Fisheries and Aquaculture, considering the current global demands and context, here are some primary career opportunities:

• Aquaculture Farm Manager: Overseeing the breeding, raising, and harvesting of aquatic species in controlled environments.
• Fisheries Biologist: Studying fish populations, behaviours, and ecosystems to provide data for sustainable fisheries management.
• Aquatic Veterinarian: Specializing in the health and disease management of aquatic organisms.
• Fish Hatchery Specialist: Managing operations to breed and raise juvenile fish for restocking or commercial production.
• Aquaculture Nutritionist: Formulating and optimizing diets for farmed aquatic species.
• Seafood Processing Manager: Overseeing the processing, packaging, and distribution of seafood products.
• Fisheries Consultant: Providing expertise to governments, NGOs, or private enterprises on best fisheries and aquaculture practices.
• Marine Conservationist: Working on initiatives to protect and restore aquatic habitats and species.
• Research Scientist: Conducting research in aquaculture systems, fish biology, genetics, or disease management.
• Extension Officer: Bridging the gap between research and the fishing and aquaculture community, promoting sustainable practices.
• Fisheries Economist: Analyzing market trends, trade policies, and economic factors influencing the fisheries and aquaculture sector.
• Environmental Impact Assessor: Evaluating the environmental effects of aquaculture operations or fisheries activities and recommending sustainable practices.

Given the increasing global demand for seafood and the challenges posed by overfishing and environmental changes, professionals in fisheries and aquaculture will play an essential role in ensuring sustainable aquatic food production and conservation.