MSc Sustainable Aquaculture and Fisheries at University of Plymouth

Programme overview

A one-year MSc developing applied understanding of sustainable aquaculture, fisheries management and marine resource use. It covers aquatic animal health, production systems, sustainable fisheries practice, seafood processing and research methods, and ends with an independent dissertation. An optional 6-12 month industry placement is available, and the programme is shaped by partnerships with government agencies, industry and NGOs.

Department: School of Biological and Marine Sciences | Duration: 1 year full-time (plus optional 6-12 month placement); part-time route available | Study mode: full-time, part-time route available | Location: Plymouth, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Core modules include Health and Production in Aquaculture, Sustainable Fisheries, Seafood Processing - Current Perspectives, the MSc Dissertation and the SoBMS Postgraduate Methods Module, with options such as Aquarium Health and Nutrition, Remote Sensing and GIS and Managing Marine Ecosystems. Teaching combines lectures, seminars, practicals, laboratory sessions and field trips, including a residential trip to Scotland and visits to hatcheries and farms in the South West.

Career pathways

Graduates progress into roles across industry, government, NGOs and international research, including R&D departments in aquaculture and aquafeed nutrition, and into doctoral study at Plymouth or elsewhere.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

UK applicants: a 2:1 or equivalent, preferably in biology, environmental science, zoology or marine biology; a 2:2 or equivalent or other relevant awards will be considered, and workplace experience may be accepted for applicants without recent formal qualifications. International applicants need a suitable English language qualification: IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. Supporting documents: degree certificates or transcripts (with translations if not in English), a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words, a CV including professional or voluntary experience and professional registrations, and proof of sponsorship where applicable. Decisions are normally made within four weeks; references or an interview may be requested.

Domestic applicants: GBP 11,700 a year (2026/27). Full-time tuition for UK students. Source

International applicants: GBP 21,000 a year (2026/27). Full-time tuition. Source

Duration: 1 year

Engineering