Dr Neil Hazon, course director and Reader at the Scottish Oceans Research Institute, said, "Although registrations are coming in fast, there are still some places left, so those who are thinking of applying for this first run of the course should do so before April 17th 2009".
The teaching programme for this new e-learning Certificate level course begins on April 27th.
The School of Biology in St Andrews will lead the course with industry support from 5M Publishing and international aquaculture consultants Fish Vet Group.
The course is aimed at those who wish to develop their skills and knowledge of the aquaculture industry, particularly for those looking to focus on the rapidly growing Asian and South American markets.
As the course is available via e-learning and is studied part time it is also suitable for those currently working in fields of marine and fresh water aquaculture who wish to gain a greater knowledge and a recognised qualification in order to promote their career prospects.
Modules include the structure of the global aquaculture industry, fish and invertebrate biology, aquaculture products and markets, each will consist of a series of lectures, tutorials, discussions and case studies delivered online from the leading aquaculture publication TheFishSite.com.
The course structure is modular and part time study through the e-learning platform will allow students the flexibility to complete their studies while continuing in their employment.
Dr Hazon continued, "A key attraction of the course is that it delivers a profession qualification in sustainable food production whilst addressing many of the challenges facing the global aquaculture industry today."
Further details on the course can be found online at