Dalhousie seeks approval for 16-month master of fisheries science program

Dalhousie is seeking approval for a 16-month master of fisheries science that would emphasize practical training in analytics, field work and stock assessment, and the faculty is preparing for a first cohort of 15–25 students in September.

Dalhousie University is developing a 16-month master of fisheries science program that emphasizes practical and professional training in data analysis, field work, stock assessment and applied fisheries management. The program is distinct from a traditional thesis-based master's and is intended to include coursework in mathematics, statistics and oceanography as well as governance. The proposal is awaiting approval from the Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission, and faculty are preparing for a potential September intake. The idea for the program was partly inspired by the legacy of Dalhousie professor Jeff Hutchings. Key facts: - The program is designed to run for 16 months and will cover analytics, data management, data visualization, mathematical and statistical analysis, oceanographic processes, and governance. - The proposal is awaiting approval from the Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission; faculty expect a first cohort of about 15–25 students in September if approved. - Developers include Max Westhead, Joanna Flemming and Aaron MacNeil, and consultations involved Indigenous communities and federal fisheries officers. - David Keith, a Fisheries and Oceans Canada research scientist who was consulted, said the department currently spends two to three years training stock assessment experts and hopes the program will produce candidates who require less on-the-job training. - Faculty cited broader drivers such as offshore wind projects, international conservation commitments (30x30), climate change and shifting species ranges as reasons for increased demand for fisheries expertise. Summary: If approved, the program is expected to provide professionally oriented graduates who can contribute to stock assessment and applied fisheries management amid growing data and spatial demands in marine planning. The proposal remains under review by the Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission and the faculty is preparing for a possible September intake of 15–25 students.