Aquaculture

By studying Aquaculture as a major at the University of Waikato’s Tauranga campus, you will be at the centre of New Zealand’s prime growth area for aquaculture.
science

Why study Aquaculture?

Aquaculture is only available in Tauranga.

Study Aquaculture with us a equip yourself to make a meaningful contribution to the future of this crucial industry!

Delve into the fascinating world of reproductive physiology and developmental biology of early life cycle strategies used by aquatic animal species, and learn how this knowledge can be applied to the husbandry, breeding and sustainable production of species in aquaculture.  Gain a deep understanding of marine ecology, biosecurity and legislation as well as key principles and practices in the aquaculture of fish, invertebrates and algae.

Identification of opportunities, issues and solutions relevant to the thriving New Zealand aquaculture industry and the “Blue Economy” forms part of your study, along with the need to create diverse aquaculture projects that are both profitable and ecologically sustainable.

Build a successful career

Students with a major in Aquaculture tend to find employment in a range of primary industries (particularly marine and coastal-based activities), and future employers include the aquaculture and marine bioproduct industry, local and national government bodies (such as the Ministry of Primary Industries and Regional Councils) and both Private and Crown Research Institutes (such as NIWA, Plant & Food Research and Cawthron Institute).

Pathway opportunities

All students with University Entrance (UE) can enrol directly into Year 1 of the Aquaculture major in Tauranga. We also offer a pathway for students who have completed the NZ Diploma in Environmental Management (Level 6) at Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology.

aquaculture

Career Opportunities

  • Aquaculture entrepreneur
  • Aquaculture policy advisor/manager
  • Consultant
  • Research Assistant
  • Fishery officer
  • Hatchery manager
  • Researcher
  • Science technician
  • Saltwater production manager
  • Quality control specialist

Study Aquaculture in these qualifications

Facilities

As an aquaculture student at the University of Waikato in Tauranga, you will have access to the University's well-equipped science laboratories – including the Coastal Marine Field Station and a dedicated facility for seaweed cultivation.

You'll be working alongside, and learning from, well-respected researchers, industry professionals and academics

Scholarships and prizes

Visit our Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships.

Aquaculture papers