WHICH PROGRAM WILL TAKE YOU TO YOUR CAREER GOALS?

The University of Alaska offers comprehensive Fisheries Programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in the field of fisheries including: aquaculture, mariculture management, research, and conservation.

The following educational pathway outlines the various academic options available, from occupational endorsements to graduate degrees, for students aspiring to excel in the world of fisheries.



Students at the hatchery
Start

Occupational Endorsement

Occupational Endorsements are short-term, specialized programs. These endorsements can be earned within a few months and are ideal for individuals seeking immediate job opportunities or as a stepping stone to higher education. Occupational Endorsement in Fisheries Management Courses might include Fisheries of Alaska, Oceanography, and Fisheries Management Techniques.

Potential Careers
  • Fishing Guide
  • Creel Sampler
Grow

Certificate

Certificates are slightly more comprehensive than occupational endorsements and focus on specific areas of fisheries management or aquaculture. Certificate in Applied Fisheries w/ an emphasis in Fisheries Management Courses might include Fish Biology, Fisheries Management Techniques, Fisheries of Alaska, and a Fisheries Internship.

Potential Careers
  • Creel Sampler
  • Fish Hatchery Technician
  • Natural Resources Technician
Students fishing in the river
Student with an octupus
Advance

Associate’s Degree

Associate's Degree in fisheries provides a broader foundation in fisheries science and management and takes about two years to complete. Associate of Applied Science in Applied Fisheries Courses might include Oceanography, Fish Biology, Fisheries Management Law and Economics, Freshwater Ecology, and a Fisheries Internship.

Potential Careers
Specialize

Bachelor’s Degree

Bachelor's Degree in fisheries or a fisheries-related degree is a four-year program that provides a comprehensive understanding of fisheries biology, ecology, management, and research. Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Marine Sciences Courses might include Fish Ecology, Ichthyology, Aquatic Ecology, The Harvest of the Sea, Introduction to Marine Science, and Fisheries Management.

Potential Careers
  • Fishery Policy Analyst
  • Fisheries/Environmental Consultant
students examining
Fisheries professors
Lead

Graduate Degree

Graduate Degrees are for students who wish to pursue advanced research or leadership roles. The Master of Science in Fisheries with Biology Emphasis is a research-focused program with courses in Advanced Ecology of Fisheries Physiology, and Aquatic Conservation. The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Fisheries Science research-intensive program is focused on original research, advanced topics in fisheries, and specialization in a particular area of interest.

Potential Careers
  • Director of Fisheries Department
  • Fishery Research Scientist
  • Fishery Development Manager
  • Fisheries Biometrician