BSc Aquaculture and Fishery Management
I worked on a fish farm for a while and wanted to study a degree in the subject but needed to boost my academic background first. So I joined the Access to Higher Education course at Sparsholt and then went on to the Foundation Degree in Sports Fisheries and Aquaculture followed by the BSc (Hons) Aquaculture and Fishery Management Top-Up.
The most enjoyable part of the course for me has been the practicals and placements. Placements have given me the opportunity to travel to New Zealand and make many contacts within the industry. The individual units cover everything you need to know about aquaculture, with the tutors delivering the information in relatable ways. The experience all tutors have really shows during lectures, with help available whenever you need it. The facilities are also brilliant.
I am currently the Hatchery and Hill Loch Manager at Kames Fish Farming on the West Coast of Scotland. Sparsholt helped me find the area of aquaculture I wanted to work in and gave me the knowledge and skills to feel comfortable in the workplace. Studying also helped prepare me for work by teaching me the theory behind the practical work, helping me understand the reasons and outcomes of the day-to-day operations I now do at work.
Make sure to throw yourself into the course and any opportunities you take. It’s just three years, but it flies by. Make the most of all work placements as they may one day be your employer.
Find out more about Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine Studies courses at University Centre Sparsholt.