Career Guide for Aquatic Science Studies

Aquatic Science is the multidisciplinary study of aquatic systems, encompassing both freshwater and marine systems. It deals with the human impact on and interaction with aquatic systems from the molecular level of contaminants to the stresses on entire ecosystems. In a planet where water covers roughly three-quarters of the total surface, an Aquatic Science course is no moth in comparison to the other fields of study. The Indian peninsula boasts of rich water resources, brimming with exotic plants and animals, waiting to be explored. Along with it, the robust growth in fishing industry promises great prospects for a career in this field.

Besides having a keen interest for underwater environments and various water-bodies, a strong skill of observation, good color vision, patience, good physical health, perseverance and interest in outdoor activities are some of the other prerequisites for this field.

Courses & Eligibility:

Some of the Courses offered under Aqua science include:

• B.Sc. Aqua Culture
• Bachelor of Fishery Science
• M.Sc. Industrial Fisheries
• Master of Fishery Science
• Ph.D. Fishery Science
• M.Sc. Applied Fisheries and Aquaculture
• M.Sc. Aqua Culture and Fish Processing
• M.Sc. Aqua Culture
• M.Sc. Mariculture
• M.Sc. Coastal Aquaculture and Marine Biotechnology
• M.F.Sc. Freshwater Aqua Culture
• Ph.D. Aqua Culture

The eligibility for Aqua Scinece B.Sc courses is 10+2 science, preferably with Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Maths. For Post Graduate qualification like M.Sc in aqua science, a Graduate degree in Science or a higher degree in the related field is preferred. Diploma courses are also offered by several institutes and the duration of these courses may vary between 1 – 3 years.

Career Prospects:

Central Food Technological Research Institute’s (CFTRI) Biology department, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) are the top recruiters in this field . Students can also aspire to become fish farm or aqua farm managers, hatchery unit managers, sea food exporters, seafood traders, aquaculturists, fish breeding professionals etc. Professionals base their work in many aquatic environments such as estuaries, lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands. In government agencies, they study the quality of drinking water, help set standards for seafood, and make recommendations on environmental regulations. In the private sector, they work for the Oil Industry, aiding them to locate underwater oil reserves. Many scientists who specialize in aquatics can avail a lot of opportunities in academics also.

Remunerations:

A fresher may procure a pay package of Rs. 10000-12000 per month. Farming supervisors can earn a salary of Rs. 15000-20000 per month. Teachers/professors may earn a salary according to the UGC guidelines.