Rationale

Freshwater and marine ecosystems are critical areas of concern world-wide. This is mainly due to the tremendous perturbation of these systems by man, coupled with a changing global climate. Anthropogenic perturbations and associated consequences have adversely affected aquatic systems and related environments. Further, the high demand for food by the ever increasing population has led to increased exploitation and harvesting of aquatic resources. The challenges arising have not been adequately addressed due to shortage of well-trained personnel in applied aquatic sciences. Therefore, there is need to increase the number of trained aquatic scientists in line with the Egerton University vision, mission and philosophy, the Kenya Vision 2030 and United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals. This is particularly urgent in view of water becoming a limiting resource in many regions of the country, the African continent and the world at large. 

Programme Objective 

The programme prepares students for employment as aquatic scientists able to teach, research, advice and formulate policies for sustainable use, better management and conservation of aquatic systems. It is designed to produce graduates who can engage in self-employment (e.g. aquaculturists), consultancy, fisheries management, policy making and environmental health assessment amongst others. The training in fundamental concepts, knowledge, skills, values, attitudes, and laboratory/field techniques of aquatic sciences prepares the students for pursuit of advanced degrees in limnology, applied ecology, marine biology, environmental science and other related fields. 

Admission Requirements

Admission of learners into the programme will follow the Egerton University Statutes 37 (2) of 2023. 
In addition, candidates MUST have passed the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), or its equivalent, with a mean Grade of C+ (plus), and must have attained a C+ (plus) in Biology, C (plain) in Chemistry (or Physical Sciences), and C (plain) in Mathematics. 
Candidates with a diploma in related areas from a recognized institution may be admitted, provided that they passed at credit level or above. Admission is also open to other degree holders with minimum entry requirements. 

Regulations on Credit Accumulation and Transfer in the Programme

Credit Accumulation  
Regulations on credit accumulation, including possible pathways, shall be in line with the provisions of Universities Regulations, Universities Standards and Guidelines (2014). 

Credit transfer 
Normal credit transfer will not exceed 40% of the programme total Credit Factors as stipulated in the Egerton University Statutes 37(3) of 2023. 
 

Examination Regulations

Examination regulations for the program shall be conducted in accordance with Egerton University Statutes of 2023 article 37 (7). Examinations shall be held at the end of each semester of each year of study in accordance with the university examination regulations,
 

Grading System

The grading of examinations for this programme shall be conducted in accordance with Egerton University Statute 37(8) of 2023. 

Graduation Requirements

To graduate a learner shall be required to take and pass at least 120 CFs which shall include at least 9 CFs of University Common Core Courses.