Career Education in Ocean Farming, or Aquaculture
Industry feedback suggests that there is a significant need for the development of entry- and middle-skill workers for the burgeoning Blue Economy in Southern California, including the aquaculture industry. The target population for this program is students generally interested in the topics of aquaculture, food security and global food supply chains. The program emphasizes workforce preparation at the interface of global climate change and sustainability. With consideration for environmental change, additionally, this course addresses conservation and restoration practices for endangered species.
Job Training in Aquafarms and Aquariums to Raise Sustainable Seafood and Restore Endangered Species
- This growing industry needs a skilled workforce to produce healthy, sustainable seafood and products.
- The recovery of threatened and endangered aquatic species needs skilled technicians.
- Earn a competitive edge through hands-on field work, lab experience and internships to secure a job.
New 2-level certificate program coming soon.
Aqua 1: Introduction to Aquaculture

History, ecology, and sustainability (3 units)
Section: 3304
Tuesday and Thursday, 8 to 9:20 a.m.
Aqua 2: Applications in Aquaculture

System design, monitoring, and maintenance (4 units)
Section: 3045
Tuesday and Thursday, 9:30 to 10:50 a.m.
Thursday, 12 to 3:05 p.m. at the Heal the Bay Aquarium
These Courses are For People Who have an interest in...
- A sustainable seafood supply
- Endangered species restoration
- Learning how to use science to solve problems
- Aquarium systems design, construction & management
What Will You Learn?
- An overview of aquaculture
- Foundational biology concepts & their application to the aquaculture industry
- Skills to operate cutting edge laboratory equipment
- Teamwork & leadership skills
About These Courses
- No prerequisites!
- Gain skills to get a well paying job!
- Earn skills badges that get you noticed by employers!
- Built-in academic support sessions!
Purpose
This program was created in response to the lack of diversity in STEM Fields and with the awareness that the aquaculture/life science industry is struggling to find highly skilled technicians to support it's rapid growth.
Vision
We envision our graduates using their training, skills, and passion to solve the world's problems through science and to become agents of change who support diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the life science workforce.
Mission
Through an equity centered approach, we strive to cultivate our student's interests in science and to build their confidence by acknowledging and celebrating their strengths while training them to become skilled aquatic life support technicians..
Transfer Opportunities
Continue your training in aquaculture by earning a bachelor’s degree at UC or CSU.
Potential Career Options
Typical Education: Associate Degree
Typical Education: Bachelor Degree
Typical Education: Ph.D.
Contact Us
Life Science Department: 310-434-4788