MSc Aquatic Veterinary Studies

University of Stirling

Aquaculture was worth £3.3bn to the Scottish economy over last decade (source: Fish Farming Expert 2023). Skilled aquatic veterinary specialists are needed to meet demand. Our Masters in Aquatic Veterinary Studies equips you with the expertise to prevent, diagnose, and control aquatic animal diseases. Gain in-depth knowledge of the biology, husbandry and environment of farmed aquatic species. The course is for veterinary professionals looking to specialise. You’ll study at the Institute of Aquaculture, one of the top institutions in this field. Their facilities include: freshwater sites in Central Scotland tropical and temperate freshwater recirculation systems on campus marine facilities in the west of Scotland. Take a closer look at our Institute of Aquaculture facilities. Gain valuable aquatic veterinary insights on field trips On this Aquatic Veterinary Studies MSc you’ll go on field trips to locations such as: farms hatcheries processors feed companies equipment suppliers research laboratories Opportunities to carry out industry-based projects We work with the aquaculture industry in over 20 countries, including all major companies in Scotland. These connections give our students the chance to engage in industry-based research projects. Examples of past projects include: Bioacoustics of sound production by farmed Ballan wrasse Partner: OtterFerry SeaFish Ltd Cellular dynamics of the Atlantic salmon gill infected with aeromonas salmonicida Partners: Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, University of Aberdeen Industrial hempseed meal as an alternative ingredient: impact on salmon health Partner: Rare Earth Global Learn from aquaculture experts On this Aquatic Veterinary Studies Masters degree you’ll be taught by aquaculture professionals from Scotland and across the world. Past guest lecturers have been from commercial partners, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and government agencies, including: MOWI Scotland Benchmark Genetics INVE Aquaculture Patogen Marine Scotland The full Masters course is divided into six taught modules, and a single research project module. The overall course is divided into three parts: Foundation modules (September to November) There are two compulsory modules, taken consecutively, which give a broad introduction to aquaculture science and practice. The first focuses on aquaculture species, systems and environments and their interaction in relation to fish health and welfare. The second module considers aquaculture as a commercial activity, its governance and insights into aquaculture in practice. This is important for understanding the context within which fish health management decisions must be taken. Advanced modules (November to April) There are four advanced modules which cover essential diagnostic skills for viral, bacterial and parasitic diseases, treatments and toxicology, epidemiology and overall health control strategies. Any three of these modules may be taken as a Postgraduate Certificate in Aquaculture Health Management. Completion of all four advanced modules together with the two foundation modules can be recognised with the award of Postgraduate Diploma in Aquatic Veterinary Studies. Research Project module (May to September) The Research Project module involves research in many areas of aquatic animal health. These projects are mostly laboratory based and often result in peer-reviewed publications. Successful completion of the module, following the foundation and advanced modules, will qualify you for an MSc Aquatic Veterinary Studies.