

BACHELOR-OF-FISHERIES-SCIENCE in General at Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University


Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is General at Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University Tirupati?
This Bachelor of Fisheries Science program at Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupati, focuses on comprehensive education in aquaculture, marine biology, fishing technology, and post-harvest management. The curriculum is designed to foster skilled professionals crucial for India''''s burgeoning ''''Blue Revolution,'''' addressing food security, rural livelihood, and sustainable resource management. It integrates scientific principles with practical applications, preparing students for diverse roles in the aquatic sector.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 science graduates with a strong interest in aquatic ecosystems, marine life, and sustainable food production. It caters to aspiring fisheries scientists, aquaculture entrepreneurs, and individuals keen on contributing to the conservation of aquatic biodiversity. It is also suitable for those looking to develop practical skills for immediate employment or pursue higher studies in fisheries and allied fields.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India as Assistant Fisheries Development Officers (AFDOs), aquaculture farm managers, seafood quality control officers, and marine biologists. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3.5 to 6.5 lakhs per annum, with significant growth trajectories in government departments, private hatcheries, feed mills, processing units, and export companies. The degree also aligns with requirements for various state and central government positions.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Scientific Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand foundational subjects like Principles of Aquaculture, Biochemistry, and Microbiology. Focus on conceptual clarity through regular revision, solving practical problems, and utilizing university lab facilities for hands-on experience.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Lab Manuals, SVVU Digital Library, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong grasp of fundamentals is critical for advanced subjects and for roles in research, farm management, and quality control, ensuring a solid base for troubleshooting and innovation in the field.
Develop Essential Laboratory and Field Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all practical sessions for subjects like Taxonomy, Limnology, and Oceanography. Practice identification of species, water quality parameter testing, and basic observation techniques. Seek opportunities for extra lab time or field visits.
Tools & Resources
University labs, Microscopes, Water quality testing kits, Local fish farms for observation
Career Connection
Proficiency in practical skills is highly valued in the fisheries industry for roles in hatcheries, research labs, and field management, directly impacting employability and effectiveness.
Build a Professional Network Early- (Semester 1-2)
Engage with faculty members, senior students, and guest lecturers. Attend departmental seminars and workshops to learn about ongoing research and industry trends. Form study groups to foster collaborative learning and discuss academic challenges.
Tools & Resources
Departmental events, LinkedIn, SVVU alumni network, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
Early networking opens doors to mentorship, internship opportunities, and valuable insights into career paths, proving crucial for future job search and professional growth in the Indian fisheries sector.
Intermediate Stage
Pursue Practical Industry Exposure- (Semester 3-5)
Seek mini-internships or short-term projects at local aquaculture farms, processing units, or fisheries research centers. Apply theoretical knowledge from Finfish Aquaculture, Post-Harvest Technology, and Fish Pathology in real-world scenarios. Even volunteer work is beneficial.
Tools & Resources
Local government fisheries projects, Private farms, ICAR institutes nearby (e.g., CIBA, CIFA), University extension activities
Career Connection
Direct industry experience enhances understanding of operational challenges and industry best practices, making graduates more job-ready and appealing to employers in India''''s aquaculture and processing sectors.
Specialize through Electives and Skill Courses- (Semester 3-5)
Carefully choose elective courses like Entrepreneurship Development or Commercial Aquaculture that align with your career interests. Focus on gaining specialized skills in areas like fish nutrition, breeding, or quality control, which are in high demand.
Tools & Resources
Elective course offerings, Online certifications in specific fishery domains, Workshops on feed formulation or hatchery techniques
Career Connection
Developing specialized skills allows for targeted career entry into specific niches (e.g., feed production, hatchery management) and opens up entrepreneurial ventures, crucial for navigating the competitive Indian job market.
Enhance Communication and Data Analysis Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in presentations, group discussions, and technical report writing assignments. Practice using biostatistics tools for data analysis. Develop strong verbal and written communication, essential for conveying scientific information and project outcomes.
Tools & Resources
Biostatistics software (R, SPSS, Excel), Presentation tools, Public speaking clubs, Technical writing guides
Career Connection
Effective communication and data analysis are vital for research, policy-making, extension services, and management roles, enabling professionals to articulate findings and influence decision-making.
Advanced Stage
Maximize Experiential Learning (ELP/RAWE/IT)- (Semester 6-8)
Fully immerse yourself in the Experiential Learning Programme (ELP), Rural Awareness Work Experience (RAWE), or In-plant Training (IT) during Semesters 7 and 8. Select modules or placements that align directly with your desired career path (e.g., aquaculture, processing, extension).
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, Industry contacts, Field journals, Project mentors
Career Connection
These immersive programs provide invaluable hands-on experience, bridging the gap between academia and industry. They often serve as direct pathways to placements or can inspire successful entrepreneurial ventures, which are highly regarded by Indian employers.
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project- (Semester 6-8)
Choose a project topic that addresses a current challenge in Indian fisheries or aquaculture. Conduct thorough research, collect and analyze data, and prepare a high-quality dissertation. This demonstrates critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific rigor.
Tools & Resources
SVVU research labs, Statistical software, Scientific literature databases (Scopus, Web of Science), Faculty guidance
Career Connection
A strong final project is a powerful portfolio item for academic advancement (M.F.Sc., Ph.D.) and for showcasing research capabilities to potential employers in R&D or government sectors, particularly in India''''s research ecosystem.
Prepare Strategically for Placements and Entrepreneurship- (Semester 6-8)
Actively engage with the university''''s placement cell for resume building, mock interviews, and access to job opportunities. For aspiring entrepreneurs, develop a detailed business plan for a fisheries venture, leveraging knowledge from Entrepreneurship Development and commercial aquaculture courses.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell, Career counseling, Workshops on interview skills, Government schemes for fisheries startups (e.g., PMMSY)
Career Connection
Strategic placement preparation ensures access to top jobs in government and private sectors. For entrepreneurs, a well-developed business plan is essential for securing funding and successfully launching ventures in India''''s growing fisheries market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A pass in 10+2 examinations with Physics, Chemistry, Biology / Agriculture / Home Science as subjects. Candidates must qualify in the common entrance test (EAMCET) conducted by the Government of Andhra Pradesh for admission.
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 160 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FEP 101 | Principles of Aquaculture | Core | 3 | History and scope of aquaculture, Water quality management, Pond preparation and management, Seed production techniques, Feed and feeding management, Health and harvesting practices |
| FEP 102 | Taxonomy of Finfish and Shellfish | Core | 3 | Principles of taxonomy and classification, Morphometric and meristic characters, Identification keys for aquatic organisms, Classification of finfish families, Classification of shellfish families, Ecological importance of taxonomy |
| FEP 103 | Principles of Biochemistry | Core | 3 | Biomolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, Enzymes: structure, function, kinetics, Vitamins and Hormones in aquatic animals, Metabolism: glycolysis, TCA cycle, Protein synthesis and nucleic acids, Energy production and utilization |
| FEP 104 | General Microbiology | Core | 3 | History and scope of microbiology, Bacterial morphology, growth, nutrition, Sterilization and disinfection techniques, Culture media preparation and methods, Staining techniques and microscopy, Introduction to viruses and fungi |
| FEP 105 | Fundamentals of Computer Application | Core | 2 | Computer hardware and software basics, Operating systems: Windows, Linux, MS Office suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Internet applications and cybersecurity, Data management and basic analysis tools, Digital literacy and e-resources |
| ESL 101 | English Language Skills | Core | 2 | Basic English grammar and vocabulary, Reading comprehension strategies, Paragraph and essay writing, Oral communication and presentation skills, Technical writing essentials, Listening and note-taking |
| ESL 102 | Rural Sociology and Fisheries Extension | Core | 3 | Concepts of rural sociology, Social groups and rural institutions, Communication models and theories, Extension education principles, Role of NGOs and self-help groups, Fisheries development programs and policies |
| PTA 101 | Physical Training and Yoga | Core | 1 | Physical fitness and wellness, Aerobic and anaerobic exercises, Introduction to Yoga and Asanas, Pranayama and meditation techniques, Sports and recreational activities, Stress management |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FEP 106 | Limnology | Core | 3 | Physical properties of freshwater bodies, Chemical properties of water, Biological communities: plankton, benthos, Primary and secondary productivity, Eutrophication and its management, Freshwater ecosystem dynamics |
| FEP 107 | Oceanography | Core | 3 | Ocean basins and bottom topography, Physical properties of seawater, Chemical composition of oceans, Ocean currents, waves, and tides, Marine ecosystems and biodiversity, Coastal zone management |
| FEP 108 | Fish Physiology | Core | 3 | Respiration and circulatory systems in fish, Osmoregulation and excretion mechanisms, Digestion and assimilation of food, Reproductive physiology and cycles, Endocrine system and hormonal control, Sensory organs and nervous system |
| FEP 109 | Fishery Genetics and Breeding | Core | 3 | Principles of Mendelian genetics, Patterns of inheritance in aquatic organisms, Chromosome manipulation techniques, Hybridization and polyploidy, Selective breeding for improved traits, Introduction to genetic engineering in fish |
| FEP 110 | Fishery Economics | Core | 3 | Basic economic principles: demand, supply, Production functions and cost analysis, Market structures and price determination, Fisheries management economics, Policy instruments in fisheries, Valuation of aquatic resources |
| ESL 103 | Communication Skills and Personality Development | Core | 2 | Verbal and non-verbal communication, Effective listening and presentation skills, Group discussions and public speaking, Interview techniques and resume writing, Self-awareness and personality traits, Leadership and team-building |
| FEP 111 | Disaster Management | Core | 2 | Types of disasters: natural and man-made, Disaster preparedness and mitigation, Response and relief operations, Rehabilitation and reconstruction, Role of agencies and community participation, Impact on fisheries and resilience building |
| NCC/NSS | NCC/NSS | Core | 1 | National integration and patriotism, Community service and social responsibility, Discipline and leadership development, Environmental protection activities, Health and hygiene awareness, First aid and basic emergency response |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FEP 201 | Finfish Aquaculture | Core | 3 | Culture systems: extensive, semi-intensive, intensive, Carp culture: species, methods, management, Catfish and Tilapia culture techniques, Freshwater prawn culture, Integrated fish farming systems, Introduction to biofloc technology |
| FEP 202 | Finfish Breeding and Hatchery Management | Core | 3 | Broodstock management and nutrition, Induced breeding techniques: hypophysation, Hatchery design and operations, Larval rearing and nursery management, Live feed production for larvae, Health management in hatcheries |
| FEP 203 | Marine Biology | Core | 3 | Marine ecosystems: pelagic, benthic, Coral reefs, mangroves, and estuaries, Marine flora and fauna diversity, Primary and secondary production in oceans, Marine biodiversity and conservation, Adaptations of marine organisms |
| FEP 204 | Biostatistics | Core | 2 | Data collection, organization, presentation, Measures of central tendency and dispersion, Probability distributions, Hypothesis testing: t-test, chi-square, Analysis of variance (ANOVA), Correlation and regression analysis |
| FEP 205 | Fish Nutrition and Feed Technology | Core | 3 | Nutritional requirements of finfish and shellfish, Feed ingredients: protein, lipid, carbohydrate sources, Feed formulation techniques, Feed processing methods: extrusion, pelleting, Quality control of feeds, Digestibility studies and feeding strategies |
| FEP 206 | Meteorology | Core | 2 | Atmospheric composition and structure, Weather elements: temperature, pressure, wind, Climatic zones and ocean-atmosphere interactions, Monsoons and their impact on fisheries, Cyclones and weather forecasting, Climate change and its implications for fisheries |
| FEP 207 | Aquatic Ecology | Core | 3 | Ecosystem concepts and components, Energy flow and nutrient cycling, Population dynamics and growth models, Community structure and interactions, Aquatic pollution and its effects, Conservation and management of aquatic resources |
| EL 201 | Entrepreneurship Development | Elective | 2 | Concept of entrepreneurship and innovation, Business idea generation and feasibility study, Market survey and demand assessment, Business plan preparation and financial analysis, Funding sources and government schemes, Legal aspects and risk management |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FEP 208 | Shellfish Aquaculture | Core | 3 | Shrimp culture: species, systems, management, Crab culture techniques and economics, Mollusc culture: oyster, mussel, clam, Shellfish hatchery operations, Grow-out systems and harvesting, Disease management in shellfish aquaculture |
| FEP 209 | Aquatic Pollution | Core | 3 | Types of aquatic pollutants and their sources, Impact of pollution on aquatic organisms, Eutrophication and its control, Oil spills and plastic pollution, Bioremediation and wastewater treatment, Water quality standards and legislation |
| FEP 210 | Fish Pathology and Microbiology | Core | 3 | Principles of fish disease diagnosis, Bacterial and viral diseases of fish, Fungal and parasitic infections, Immunology and host-pathogen interactions, Probiotics and immunostimulants, Therapeutics and disease prevention strategies |
| FEP 211 | Fishing Craft and Gear Technology | Core | 3 | Materials for fishing craft construction, Types of fishing boats and their design, Trawls, gillnets, and seines, Traps, longlines, and hooks, Fish aggregating devices (FADs), Selectivity and environmental impact of gears |
| FEP 212 | Post-Harvest Technology I (Fish Processing) | Core | 3 | Post-mortem changes and fish spoilage, Quality assessment methods of fish, Handling, chilling, and freezing techniques, Canning and curing of fish products, Drying, smoking, and fermentation, Development of value-added fish products |
| FEP 213 | Fisheries Extension Education | Core | 3 | Principles and philosophy of extension, Communication methods and aids, Training needs assessment and program planning, Adoption and diffusion of innovations, Participatory rural appraisal, Role of extension in fisheries development |
| EL 202 | Commercial Aquaculture | Elective | 2 | Site selection and farm layout, Pond construction and water management, Species selection for commercial farming, Feed management and economics, Disease control and biosecurity, Marketing and financial analysis of farms |
| PTA 201 | Sports and Games | Core | 1 | Physical fitness and sports psychology, Rules and regulations of common sports, Team sports: basketball, volleyball, football, Individual games: badminton, table tennis, First aid for sports injuries, Promoting active and healthy lifestyle |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FEP 301 | Capture Fisheries | Core | 3 | Types of capture fisheries: marine, inland, Stock assessment principles and methods, Population dynamics and growth models, Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY), Open access fisheries and tragedy of commons, Fisheries management and conservation |
| FEP 302 | Remote Sensing and GIS in Fisheries | Core | 2 | Principles of remote sensing and satellite imagery, Components of Geographic Information System (GIS), Data acquisition and spatial analysis, Applications in fish habitat mapping, Fisheries resource management, Coastal zone planning and management |
| FEP 303 | Instrumentation and Techniques in Aquaculture | Core | 2 | Water quality meters: pH, DO, conductivity, Spectrophotometry and chromatography, Microscopic techniques in pathology, PCR, ELISA, and molecular diagnostics, Bio-sensors in aquaculture, Automated feeding and monitoring systems |
| FEP 304 | Post-Harvest Technology II (Quality Control) | Core | 3 | HACCP principles and implementation, ISO standards for food safety, Quality assurance in seafood industry, Food safety regulations and certifications, Microbiological testing of seafood, Detection of chemical residues and contaminants |
| FEP 305 | Fish Immunology and Vaccinology | Core | 3 | Innate and adaptive immune systems of fish, Cellular and humoral immunity, Antigens, antibodies, and immune response, Types of fish vaccines and their development, Adjuvants and immunostimulants, Disease resistance and genetic improvement |
| FEP 306 | Ornamental Fish Culture and Management | Core | 3 | Important ornamental fish species, Breeding techniques for livebearers and egglayers, Water quality management in aquaria, Feed and feeding for ornamental fish, Disease diagnosis and treatment, Aquarium setup and marketing of ornamentals |
| EL 301 | Marketing and Value Chain Management in Fisheries | Elective | 3 | Marketing concepts and strategies, Fisheries supply chain and value chain analysis, Market channels and intermediaries, Pricing strategies and promotion, Export marketing of seafood, Consumer behavior and market research |
| FEP 307 | Fisheries Legislation | Core | 2 | Indian Fisheries Act and state specific acts, Marine Fishing Regulation Act (MFRA), Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules, Wildlife Protection Act and CITES, International conventions and agreements, Legal aspects of aquaculture and trade |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FEP 308 | Fish Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Principles of genetic engineering, Transgenic fish development and applications, Gene transfer techniques, DNA markers and genomic selection, Genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, Bioinformatics tools in fisheries research |
| FEP 309 | Responsible Fisheries and Eco-Certification | Core | 2 | FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries, Sustainable fishing practices and guidelines, Ecosystem approach to fisheries management, Marine protected areas and conservation, Eco-labelling and certification schemes, Traceability in seafood supply chain |
| FEP 310 | Aquatic Animal Health Management | Core | 3 | Diagnostic methods for aquatic animal diseases, Disease prevention and biosecurity measures, Farm-level health management strategies, Disease surveillance and early warning systems, Responsible use of antibiotics and drugs, Quarantine regulations and health certificates |
| FEP 311 | Fish Population Dynamics | Core | 3 | Population growth and regulation, Mortality and recruitment estimation, Growth models: Von Bertalanffy, Gompertz, Stock assessment models: yield per recruit, Virtual Population Analysis (VPA), Management strategies for fish stocks |
| FEP 312 | Inland Fisheries and Reservoir Management | Core | 3 | Riverine and lacustrine fisheries resources, Reservoir ecology and productivity, Stocking and enhancement programs, Fishing gear selection for inland waters, Management practices for inland fisheries, Socio-economic aspects of inland fishing communities |
| FEP 313 | Marine Fisheries and Mariculture | Core | 3 | Major marine fish resources of India, Demersal and pelagic fisheries, Coastal mariculture systems, Seaweed culture techniques, Pearl culture and edible oyster farming, Cage and pen culture in marine environments |
| EL 302 | Hatchery Management of Finfish and Shellfish | Elective | 3 | Broodstock development and maintenance, Advanced spawning induction techniques, Larval feeding and nutritional requirements, Water quality management in hatcheries, Disease prevention and biosecurity protocols, Seed transportation and acclimatization |
| PTA 301 | Sports and Physical Fitness | Core | 1 | Advanced fitness training methodologies, Specific sports skills and strategies, Nutrition for sports and active lifestyles, Injury prevention and rehabilitation, Mental conditioning and performance psychology, Organizing sports events |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ELP 701 | Experiential Learning Programme (ELP) | Experiential Learning | 20 | Aquaculture production practices, Fish seed production and hatchery operations, Integrated fish farming systems, Ornamental fish culture and management, Fish feed preparation and technology, Fish processing and value addition technologies |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RAWE/IT/PW | Rural Awareness Work Experience (RAWE) / In-plant Training (IT) / Project Work (PW) | Experiential Learning / Project | 20 | Village attachment and socio-economic surveys, Fisheries extension and technology dissemination, Industry exposure in hatcheries or processing plants, Practical skill development in real-world settings, Research methodology and data analysis, Scientific report writing and presentation |




