Warnell's Aquatic Sciences area of emphasis meets the professional certification requirements recommended by the American Fisheries Society and prepares graduates to work as fisheries biologists. This program allows students to pursue their passions for fish conservation, fisheries management, aquaculture, and other aspects of fisheries science. Students take field-oriented classes and have opportunities to participate in faculty research projects and agency internships. Coursework helps shape students' ability to understand, appreciate, and manage aquatic systems.
This area of emphasis is part of Warnell's Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences major, recognized as one of the premier programs in the country. Coursework is broad-based; not only will students understand the interrelationships between the physical and biological elements of the natural environment, but they will also gain a deeper understanding of the social, political, and economic forces that influence fish and wildlife management and the ability to analyze natural resource problems to develop realistic, data-driven solutions.
Career opportunities include employment in state and federal natural resource agencies, environmental consulting firms, non-governmental conservation organizations, and private aquaculture ventures among others. Students are also prepared to pursue graduate degrees in fisheries and aquatic science.
Study Abroad Options: Warnell hosts study away programs in Australia, Fiji, Hawaii, New Zealand, the Smoky Mountains, and the United Kingdom.