Aquaculture involves the breeding, rearing and harvesting of fish, shellfish, plants, algae and other aquatic organisms.

NMIT describes aquaculture as the world's fastest-growing primary sector, creating demand for people with relevant technical skills.

The Level 3 certificate is designed as an introductory qualification for students who want to:

• understand sustainable aquaculture;
• learn about fish and shellfish farming;
• understand hatchery operations;
• develop basic husbandry skills;
• experience real aquaculture environments;
• progress to higher-level aquaculture study;
• enter entry-level aquaculture employment.

Programme Structure

The current programme contains four compulsory courses:

1. Aquaculture Systems – SAQ301
2. Hatchery Introduction – SAQ302
3. Husbandry Introduction – SAQ303
4. Aquaculture Industry Experience – SAQ304

Specialisations / Disciplines

There are no formal majors or separate specialisations listed within this Level 3 programme.

Instead, the certificate provides introductory knowledge across several aquaculture disciplines:

Aquaculture production

• fish farming;
• shellfish farming;
• aquatic organism production.

Hatchery management

• hatchery systems;
• early-stage stock management;
• production fundamentals.

Aquatic husbandry

• feeding;
• health;
• growth;
• stock management.

Sustainable aquaculture

• sustainable production systems;
• water management;
• environmental responsibility.

Industry practice

• workplace awareness;
• field visits;
• practical aquaculture activities.

Career Outcomes

NMIT describes this qualification as providing a pathway into the aquaculture industry.

Potential areas of employment include:

• oyster farms;
• salmon farms;
• mussel farms;
• aquaculture farms;
• hatcheries;
• aquatic production operations;
• scientific research organisations.

 

Special Requirements for International Students

1. No minimum academic qualification

This makes it accessible to students from a broad range of academic backgrounds.

2. English requirement

IELTS Academic 5.0, with no subtest below 5.0, or accepted equivalent.

3. Physical capability

Students need sufficient agility, strength and fitness to complete programme activities.

4. Swimming recommended

Students will work around water, so swimming ability is strongly recommended.

5. Medical declaration

Students must declare relevant medical conditions to NMIT.

6. Drug- and alcohol-free environment

Students must comply with NMIT and industry workplace requirements.

7. Practical workshop

Although the programme is mainly online, students need to participate in the practical component in Nelson.

Main Highlights

Flexible online study

Students can study online from anywhere in New Zealand, making it suitable for learners balancing study with other commitments.

Practical training included

The programme is not purely theoretical; students receive two weeks of hands-on experience in Nelson.

Modern RAS exposure

Students have the opportunity to work with a Recirculating Aquaculture System, giving them exposure to modern aquaculture technology.

Industry visits

Field trips provide exposure to real aquaculture operations.

Industry connections

Students interact with aquaculture professionals during the practical component.

Strong pathway to higher study

Students can progress toward Level 4 aquaculture study and potentially the Bachelor of Aquaculture and Marine Conservation.

Affordable entry-level qualification

At the currently published 2026 rate, tuition is NZ$3,270, although the 2027 price needs confirmation.

Broad aquaculture exposure

Students get an introduction to systems, hatcheries, husbandry and industry experience.

Who Should Choose This Programme?

This programme is particularly suitable for a student who:

• is interested in fish, shellfish and aquatic environments;
• wants to explore aquaculture as a career;
• is interested in sustainable food production;
• likes biology/science and practical work;
• wants flexible online study;
• is comfortable working around water;
• wants to progress into higher-level aquaculture study;
• is interested in marine conservation and sustainable development.

It is less suitable for a student who:

• wants a traditional campus-based programme every day;
• wants a bachelor's degree immediately;
• requires guaranteed part-time employment rights;
• wants a direct Post Study Work Visa pathway;
• does not want to participate in water-based practical activities.