Bemidji State is the only institution in Minnesota to offer a four-year degree program in aquatic biology. This program includes the study of lakes, rivers, streams, wetlands and organisms such as bacteria, protozoa, invertebrates, insects, fish, aquatic plants and more. Aquatic biologists also study nutrients, light and pollution and how these affect the water systems.

Aquatic Systems Emphasis

By choosing a more general aquatic systems emphasis, you can tailor your program to best suit your interests.

With an emphasis in aquatic systems, your classes can range from aquatic plants to fisheries management to freshwater invertebrates to wetland ecology. This emphasis will help you become a well-rounded aquatic ecologist knowledgeable in a variety of disciplines.

For more information about the courses in this program, visit the course catalog.

Fisheries Biology Emphasis

Fisheries biology is an interdisciplinary field incorporating chemistry, ecology, limnology (the study of inland aquatic ecosystems), management and economics.

The fisheries biology emphasis at Bemidji State is an interdisciplinary curriculum that gives students a solid foundation in the aquatic sciences and covers relevant topics in environmental law and policy, economics and statistics.

Surrounded by lakes, rivers and streams Bemidji State provides extraordinary opportunities for fieldwork and research. Our faculty have strong ties to fisheries in the area as well as the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Students also have opportunities for internships that will allow them to experience the day-to-day work of fisheries management.

For more information about the courses in this program, visit the course catalog.

Wetlands Ecology Emphasis

Wetlands — areas with seasonal or permanent shallow surface water or water-saturated soils — are becoming an increasingly important environmental issue with approximately 52% of our nation’s wetlands being lost. Nevertheless, there is a valuable role of wetlands in water management, plant and animal biodiversity and global nutrient cycles.

Surrounded by many bogs, fens (a type of wetland), marshes, swamps, prairie potholes, lakes and rivers, Bemidji State offers a unique opportunity to train experts in wetland ecology, delineation, management and preservation.

For more information about the courses in this program, visit the course catalog.