AAS Degree

Aquarium Science

Subject

Students may earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in Aquarium Science by successfully completing the required 93 credit hours with a grade of C or better in all courses. Students are required to complete 132 hours of practicum and 400 hours of field internship.

NOTE: Additionally, students can pursue PADI Scuba certification by taking PE293. It is an optional course.

Aquarium Science

The Aquarium Science Program offers a comprehensive two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and a one-year Certificate that is open only to individuals who already possess a Bachelor’s degree in a life science area.

Both the Certificate and the AAS provide theory and practical experience designed to prepare students for a career in aquatic animal husbandry. Enrollment in the Aquarium Science Program is limited. For additional information and to apply for the program online visit the college webpage at https://oregoncoast.edu/aquarium-science-program/. Students who successfully earn a degree or certificate will be qualified to work in the aquatic animal husbandry profession. They may be eligible for entry-level positions as aquarists, aquatic biologists, and keepers. Potential employment opportunities include public zoos and aquariums, ornamental fish retailers and wholesalers, aquaculture businesses, fish hatcheries, research programs, marine educational centers, state and federal natural resource agencies, as well as self-employment.

Admissions Requirements

Enrollment is limited to 20 to 24 students each year. Individuals wanting to enroll in the program must complete an on-line application located at https://oregoncoast.edu/aquarium-science-program/. Each applicant will have an interview with the Aquarium Science faculty.

Western Oregon University Partnership Options

Students can apply to WOU's AQS program and complete a portion of their program at OCCC. Students will be WOU students with access to their resources during the time they are at OCCC (with access to OCCC's resources). There are two paths:

1:2:1: Students begin their program at OCCC and complete the first year of the program at OCCC. Students complete the next two years at WOU. Students complete the final year at OCCC earning their AQS certificate in addition to their BS.
3:1: Students complete their first three years at WOU and then complete their final year at OCCC earning the AQS certificatein addition to their BS.

Students can learn more here: WOU's AQS Program and OCCC's AQS Program.

Program Outcomes

Students completing the AAS or certificate will:

Accurately communicate, verbally, and in writing, scientific concepts, research findings and ideas to professionals and the general public.
Maintain, analyze, diagnose, and repair aquatic life support systems and their components.
Perform basic water quality analysis using standard testing equipment.
Maintain healthy animal populations by applying industry standards and practices to aquarium set-up, monitoring, and animal care.
Identify healthy, physically compromised animals, and abnormal animal behaviors.
Work as a member of a team to conceptualize, plan, construct, and manage environments that promote healthy fishes and invertebrates.
Apply fundamental knowledge and skills in science, mathematics, and communications for success in a professional or academic setting (AAS degree specific outcome).