Aquatic Sciences

Dive into a world of discovery with Purdue’s Aquatic Sciences major. Explore the fascinating lives of aquatic animals and their habitats, from freshwater ecosystems to aquaculture systems. Learn how land and water interact, how pollutants affect aquatic life and how science-based management practices can protect these vital resources. 

In Purdue Forestry and Natural Resources, students benefit greatly from hands-on learning in and out of the classroom. You will be a part of transformative experiences with opportunities for conference attendance, involvement with student organizations, access to intern positions and participation in a five-week immersive Summer Practicum

The American Fisheries Society (AFS) logo.The aquatic sciences major meets all requirements for students to apply for The American Fisheries Society (AFS) certification as an Associate Fisheries Professional following graduation.

Bachelor of Science in Aquatic Sciences, Minor & Concentration

Professor Sepulveda with students in lab as they conduct fish research.

AQUATIC SCIENCES BS

Staff in boat on the Great Lakes holding fish, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant.

AQUATIC SCIENCES MINOR

Students holding hand nets as they conduct research in river.

fisheries concentration

Sea horse, Marine Biology, Purdue FNR.

Marine & Freshwater Biology Concentration

Banner showing career opportunities in Purdue Forestry and Natural Resources.

Aquatic Science Careers

Purdue Aquatic Sciences: Explore the water, discover your future.

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Meet Our Students, Staff, Alumni & Partners

Sailboats in the ocean
All roads lead home: One student’s unexpected path to Purdue

It was two weeks away from the start of Harrison Reeves’ first semester at Purdue...

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Ashley Higdon and Dr. Barny Dunning birding; a white oak grove; a white-tailed deer
FNR's Most Read Stories of 2024

2024 was a productive year for Purdue Forestry and Natural Resources across the three land grant...

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Identifying zooplankton under a microscope in the Freshwater Ecology Lab; a walleye under a microscope at the Aquaculture Research Lab; A largemouth bass Katie caught hook and line sampling.
FNR Field Report: Katie Buckles

Katie Buckles, a senior wildlife major minoring in aquatic sciences, worked as a technician at...

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The front facade of Pfendler Hall
FNR Welcomes New Faces to Faculty, Staff

The Purdue Department of Forestry and Natural Resources includes many new faces for the 2024-25...

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Mallory Walker with her students and also fellow BGR leaders at Boiler Gold Rush 2024
FNR Field Report: Mallory Wagner

Mallory Wagner, a junior majoring in aquatic sciences – fisheries with a minor in...

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Noah Haas holds a large snapping turtle; Noah holds a largemouth and smallmouth bass; Noah Haas holds a large bullfrog
FNR Field Report: Noah Haas

Noah Haas, a junior majoring in aquatic sciences – fisheries, worked as a crew leader for...

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