Graduate Program
At the School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, you will graduate employment-ready with the skills to advance the discipline of fisheries and aquatic sciences. You will learn to develop and implement novel research that addresses relevant questions and issues in a selected discipline, communicate science effectively to peers and to the public, integrate knowledge across disciplines, and gain leadership skills by mentoring, advising, and instructing junior colleagues.
Graduate Degrees in Aquatic and Fishery Science
Master of Science (MS) Degree
The Master of Science (MS) degree, often precursory to the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, typically requires the student to complete a research-based thesis. Course requirements are flexible to support the educational and career goals of the student. Students interested in an MS degree should contact individual faculty members to request information on current research and graduate opportunities. Students completing an MS degree may petition to pursue a PhD degree without reapplying.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Degree
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree program requires preparation of a research proposal, the passage of a qualifying examination and general examination, completion of the dissertation research, and presentation of the research at a final examination. A minimum of two years of residence at the UW is also required. Students interested in a PhD degree should contact individual faculty members to request information on current research and graduate opportunities.
Data Science Option
The School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences Data Science Option (SAFS DSO) curriculum at the Master’s (MS) and Doctorate (PhD) levels is designed to provide the breadth and depth of knowledge needed for a successful career at the interface of applied aquatic sciences and data science. The primary learning outcome for the SAFS DSO is for students to have professional working proficiency – gained through coursework – in data management, data visualization, software engineering (data focused), and statistical modeling. Graduate students in a SAFS degree program with interest in the DSO should contact the SAFS graduate adviser for more information.