Master Aquaculture and Marine Resource Management

(former MSc Aquaculture and Fisheries)
Oceans, seas, estuaries and lakes have always been a main source of food for man. For numerous species present exploitation levels have bypassed the carrying capacity of these ecosystems, leading to devastating effects on the biodiversity and ecosystem functions. Therefore Aquaculture is evolving into a multi-disciplinary industry which is sustainable and socially equitable. Fisheries is in transition to Marine Resource Management, from a focus on ‘human centred management’ towards ‘ecosystem based management’. Since society is requesting sustainable fisheries and its certification, also new governance systems are needed. International agreements like the Marine Strategy Framework Directive in Europe requires a more holistic and integrated approach to Marine Governance.

Therefore, Marine and Aquatic Resource Management is currently in a transition phase, from a focus on optimising harvests towards a holistic ecosystem based management. The MSc programme will has three specialisations: Aquaculture, Marine Resources and Ecology (combination of Fisheries and Marine Ecology) and Marine Governance.

This way students are optimally prepared for the changing workfield of Marine and Aquatic Resource Management.

Students can become a member of a very active study association 'Aquarius'. More information on sub association 'Aquarius', part of  'De Veetelers' click here.