Program Overview

MSc Aquatic Veterinary Studies

Overview

The MSc Aquatic Veterinary Studies is a postgraduate program designed to equip students with specialist expertise in aquatic animal diseases. The program is offered by the University of Stirling's Institute of Aquaculture, one of the top institutions in this field.

Key Facts

• Award: Masters / MSc, Postgraduate Diploma
• Start date: September 2025
• Duration: MSc full-time: 12 months, MSc part-time: 27 months
• Mode of study: full time, part time
• Delivery: on campus

Entry Requirements

Academic Requirements

• A minimum of a second class Honours degree or equivalent in Veterinary Medicine.
• Applicants without these formal qualifications but with significant appropriate/relevant work/life experience are encouraged to apply.

International Entry Requirements

• View the entry requirements for your country.

English Language Requirements

• If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:
  • IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each sub-skill.
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) 60 overall with a minimum of 59 in each sub-skill.
  • IBT TOEFL 78 overall with a minimum of 17 in listening, 18 in reading, 20 in speaking and 17 in writing.

Course Details

Foundation Modules (September to November)

• There are two compulsory modules, taken consecutively, which give a broad introduction to aquaculture science and practice.

Advanced Modules (November to April)

• There are four advanced modules which cover essential diagnostic skills for viral, bacterial and parasitic diseases, treatments and toxicology, epidemiology and overall health control strategies.

Research Project Module (May to September)

• The Research Project module involves research in many areas of aquatic animal health.

Teaching

• Research-led teaching is at the core of your learning as our staff conduct world-leading research in Aquatic Veterinary Science.
• Our teaching makes use of both our campus-based teaching facilities and online learning environment.

Fieldwork

• There will be a number of field exercises throughout the course, which include visits to Scottish aquaculture production sites, as well as the external marine and freshwater facilities of the Institute of Aquaculture.

Assessment

• Taught module assessment is continuous and consists of assignments in a range of formats, including short tests, poster and platform presentations, essays, practical and project reports, and field assignments.
• The Research Project module is examined through a reflective diary maintained throughout the research project module, a written dissertation, a press release and a seminar presentation, which is delivered to peers, supervisors and the external examiner.

Fees and Funding

Fees and Costs

• University of Stirling alumni will automatically be awarded a fee waiver for the first year of Masters studies through our Stirling Alumni Scholarship.
• Applicants from the UK or Republic of Ireland who hold a first-class honours degree or equivalent will automatically be awarded a £2,000 scholarship through our Postgraduate Merit Scholarship.

Scholarships and Funding

• If you have the talent, ability and drive to study with us, we want to make sure you make the most of the opportunity – regardless of your financial circumstances.
• Learn more about available funding opportunities or use our scholarship finder to explore our range of scholarships.

After You Graduate

• Graduates of the MSc Aquatic Veterinary Studies can pursue roles such as:
  • Aquaculture Health Consultant.
  • Government Fisheries Specialist.
  • Research Scientist.
  • Seafood Farm Manager.
  • Aquarium Manager.
• Aquaculture specialists earn an estimated £35,622 annually. The average salary is £30,750 (source: Glassdoor 2025).