UAPB Aquaculture/Fisheries Undergraduate Program

Aquaculture/Fisheries Undergraduate Program

B.S. in Fisheries Biology

The Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff offers the only Bachelor of Science degree in fisheries biology in Arkansas. The curriculum conforms to guidelines established by the American Fisheries Society for fisheries undergraduate programs and of the U.S. Aquaculture Society for aquaculture programs.

The 29 hours of aquaculture and fisheries coursework (see curriculum and course descriptions) emphasizes hands-on field and laboratory experiences. Professors in the department recognize that students have differing learning styles and are committed to using a variety of teaching styles and techniques to ensure student learning. Small class sizes (a majority with less than ten students) coupled with a 3:1 student:faculty ratio creates an ideal learning environment in the department. Laboratories are offered in the new, state-of-the-art Holiday Hall Applied Science Building. In addition, UAPB fisheries majors have unique opportunities to work with fisheries faculty, staff, and graduate students on various ongoing research projects. The department also has available a variety of full and partial scholarships exclusively for fisheries biology majors.

Cooperative education opportunities are available throughout the U.S. for summer or longer terms. These opportunities are available through various state and federal agencies as internships, STEP (Student Temporary Employment Program), and SCEP (Student Career Experience Program) programs. Recruiters for these programs regularly visit UAPB to enlist interested students.

Individualized instruction, an emphasis on practical experience, scholarship availability, and cooperative education opportunities make UAPB an ideal choice for students interested in careers in aquaculture, natural fisheries biology and management, or to pursue graduate study.

Below are just a few of the unique opportunities of our program:

Receive training in essential areas of fisheries biology that prepare students for careers in fisheries management, fisheries or aquatic ecology, and related environmental fields with state and federal agencies or the private sector.
Acquire critical skills to prepare students for careers in the aquaculture industry, which includes fish farms, fish processing plants, feed mills, and other support industries.
Gain academic background and research experience to pursue graduate degrees in diverse fields that include aquaculture, natural fisheries, agriculture, veterinary science, toxicology, ecology, and related environmental sciences.