Program Overview

Aquatic Resources

Program Overview

The Aquatic Resources Program (AQUA) at StFX is an interdisciplinary program that combines natural and social science perspectives to motivate student engagement and foster understanding of water resource issues – both marine and freshwater.

Faculty and Degree Type

• Faculty: Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Science
• Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts in Aquatic Resources, Bachelor of Science in Aquatic Resources
• Delivery: In-person
• Department: Aquatic Resources

About Aquatic Resources

The AQUA program explores how water permeates our lives, from the food we eat to the health of the earth's oceans, and how water shapes our world and sustains living organisms. Students majoring in Aquatic Resources may complete a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science degree.

Why Study Aquatic Resources at StFX?

StFX is located next to Canada's rugged Atlantic coastline, as well as rivers, lakes, and wetlands, providing ample opportunity for hands-on research exploring freshwater and marine systems firsthand. The program offers a distinct advantage in understanding global resource issues, including those involving water, that occur between countries, cultures, cities, and rural communities, and between regions within countries.

First Year at a Glance

In the first year, students explore the characteristics that determine the scientific nature of aquatic resource ecosystems – freshwater and oceans – and examine the effects human use has on water and resources. Topics include water as a unique substance, ecological principles, management practices, governance, rivers, wetlands, freshwater and ocean resources, biodiversity conservation, and more.

Future Opportunities

AQUA graduates have pursued careers in environmental research and analysis, water resources science, marine biology, aquaculture policy analysis, coastal resource management, fisheries enforcement, and more. Career paths include:

• Adaptation Planning Specialist, Water
• Business owner: GIS and Drone Services
• Climate Change & Sustainability Manager
• Conservation Planner
• Fisheries Analyst
• Hydrologist
• Oceans Act Coordinator
• Policy Analyst
• Project Officer, National Flood & Coastal Risk Management
• Regional Fisheries Manager
• Regional Program Coordinator, Sea Birds
• Senior Program Officer, Indigenous Fisheries
• Species at Risk Biologist
• Water Quality Specialist

Testimonials

• "I graduated from the AQUA program in 2021 and in my opinion, it provided me with the right balance of academic and practical experience."
• "The Aquatic Resources Program at StFX was the most unique and comprehensive education I ever could've gotten at a university."

Residences

• Governors Hall: A stately student residence with amenities such as full shared kitchen facilities, in-building laundry facilities, and study lounges.
• Cameron Hall: A sprawling residence with amenities such as laundry facilities, hockey storage, common areas, and TV lounges.

Life in Antigonish

Antigonish is a small town with big things to offer, providing a unique experience for students. Learn more about life in Antigonish and the opportunities available.

StFX Location

StFX is located in Mi'kma'ki, the unceded ancestral territory of the Mi'kmaw people. The Mi'kmaw name for Antigonish is Nalikitquniejk, meaning 'place where branches are torn off.'