The Ecology, Aquatic Biology, and Fishery Science Focus is an ideal option for students interested in careers in terrestrial ecology, aquatic and marine biology, field biology, resource management, or environmental education. Faculty expertise and the resources of the Lake Superior region contribute to the quality of this program, which emphasizes fieldwork and undergraduate research.

Degrees and Majors/Minors

Biology - Ecology, Aquatic Biology and Fishery Science focus

The Curriculum

All biology majors at UW-Superior take core courses in introductory biology, genetics, cell biology, physiology and ecology. We also offer several electives that will help prepare students for careers or graduate studies in the field of ecology. Some of our elective courses include: Aquatic Entomology, Biogeography, Entomology, Field Biology, Fish Population Ecology and Management, Forestry, Ichthyology, Limnology, Marine Biology, Ornithology, Parasitology, Plant Taxonomy, Vertebrate Biology, and Water Chemistry.

Research Opportunities

Students with an interest in this area of biology often work with faculty members on research on Lake Superior ecology the ecology of local aquatic resources, water quality assessments, migratory waterfowl studies, aquatic toxicology, and vegetation surveys.

Additional research opportunities and internships are available with the University's Lake Superior Research Institute, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Wisconsin and Minnesota Departments of Natural Resources, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, and others.

Facilities Available

• Our location in northwestern Wisconsin gives you access to lakes, rivers, wetlands, forests, and other natural resources for study and research including the University owned 140-acre MacQuarrie Wetlands and 77 acres along Dutchman's Creek. The University also has a 58-foot research vessel available for studies on Lake Superior and several small boats that provide access to inland lakes.

• An animal care facility has been added to the Barstow Hall Science building. This facility is equipped with two isolated animal care rooms, one of which is capable of safely housing invasive aquatic species. Designed to meet all federal and state animal care guidelines, this facility will be used to house animals for both research and classroom use. A separate wet lab is specifically designed to culture aquatic organisms that can be used in toxicological studies.

What can you do with a degree in Ecology, Aquatic Biology and Fishery Science Biology from UW-Superior?

Biologists work in a wide range of jobs in local, state, tribal and federal government, schools and universities, scientific research and testing laboratories.

The following are examples of career options for biology majors:

• Aquatic biologist
• Ecologist
• Resource manager or educator
• Fisheries conservationist
• Environmental health specialist
• Marine biologist
• Museum/aquarium professional