Fisheries Science at South Dakota State University – Building on History and Developing the Future in the Preparation of Fisheries Professionals

The Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences program at SDSU provides a strong and nationally recognized curriculum for the undergraduate education of fisheries professionals. The program also provides M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences. The goal of the 120-credit B.S. curriculum is to produce graduates that have extensive exposure to skills necessary to qualify for wildlife and fisheries conservation and management positions in state and federal agencies. Coursework generally focuses on organisms, natural populations and communities, their habitats, and human users. Fundamental coursework for students with interests in fish hatchery biologist positions include biology, chemistry, ichthyology, limnology, hydrology, field techniques, fisheries management, genetics, human dimensions, communications, and quantitative courses. Additional courses (e.g., nutrition, immunology) can be taken as supporting coursework. Curricular requirements are structured so that graduates can meet the education requirements for associate-level certification by the American Fisheries Society. Experiential activities provide additional skills, including teamwork, leadership, ethics, global competence, critical thinking, and problem solving – skills highly desired by employers. Although most graduates are employed by state and federal natural resource agencies, other opportunities exist with local and tribal governments, non-governmental organizations, and private industry. Many undergraduates continue their education by seeking advanced degrees.