COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science, Minor in Aquaculture at Vancouver Island University requires students to complete a structured set of core courses across four years, totaling 25 credits. In Years 1 and 2, students must choose one of three foundational biology options: BIOL 123; the combination of BIOL 123A and 123L; or FISH 123, all providing essential biological knowledge. They also take AQUA 101 (Introduction to Aquaculture), which introduces the principles and practices of aquaculture. An additional 6 credits must be selected from a list of relevant lower-level courses, including BIOL 212, CHEM 212, various FISH courses, INDG 203 or 204, and MATH courses (181, 203, or 211), though only one math course may count toward this requirement. Students are advised to select these courses strategically to meet prerequisites for upper-level studies. In Years 3 and 4, students must complete at least 12 credits from four AQUA courses numbered 300 to 499, with the option to include up to 3 credits from approved alternatives such as 300-level or higher FISH courses, GEOG 356, INDG 300, or MGMT 381. This curriculum blends scientific knowledge with applied aquaculture skills, preparing students for diverse roles in sustainable aquatic animal production and environmental resource management.