The Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS), a partner of the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), announced its world-class Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree course. The specialized degree in Aquaculture, Environment, and Society-STAR (ACES-STAR), which is part of the European Union’s Erasmus+ program, has raised EUR 5 million for the next five years to fund 81 scholarships for international students.
The two-year course, which has been running since 2015 and has already trained 110 students from 38 countries worldwide, is looking for students with a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in one of the fields of environmental or social sciences.
Partnering with the universities of Crete, Greece, and Nantes, France, the course is also supported by 63 affiliated partners from across the world, which have offered to support the program with guest scholars, support internships, and dissertation projects. Moreover, three scholarships funded by Scottish Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC) will be also available.
“Being able to research and explore shellfish and finfish aquaculture in various countries in Europe through the ACES program has been an unforgettable experience. The knowledge shared between classmates and also the experts in academia and industry has allowed me to continue to grow my networks and friendships. I’m so grateful for being accepted onto the ACES program, as it helped me springboard my career in fish health,” said ACES student Aaliyah Malla.
“After completing the ACES Masters, I was hired to work for a feed company and now visit salmon farms all over Scotland. I conduct fish quality checks, feed trials and provide fish diet advice to farm managers. ACES was a life-changing experience, allowing me to see and experience different countries and cultures while making many friends and gaining a first-class aquaculture qualification. The subjects covering Atlantic salmon and feed were crucial in obtaining my current role. I would not have the opportunities I have now without this incredible Masters,” said ACES student James Hedges.
“We are absolutely delighted to be receiving further funding for 81 scholarships from ERASMUS+. The ACES Master's program has grown from strength to strength over the past seven years and this award is a testament to the dedication of all the partners and our industry collaborators in delivering a world-class degree. It is also a fantastic opportunity for any student wishing to become a leader in the aquaculture industry and we look forward to receiving applications now for the course beginning in September 2023,” said Elizabeth Cottier-Cook, ACES-STAR’s SAMS program leader.
Find more information here or contact aces@smas.ac.uk.
