NEWPORT – Oregon Coast Community College is recruiting students to become part of the nation’s first and only Associate of Applied Science degree program in Aquarium Science. Students in the program will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to provide high quality aquatic animal care. Potential employment opportunities include public aquariums, aquaculture businesses, ornamental fish enterprises or self-employment.

Those interested in this specialized, limited-enrollment program are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Application forms are available online by visiting the program’s Web site at www.occc.cc.or.us/aquarium or by contacting the Aquarium Science Office in Newport. The two-year program, which begins each September, emphasizes hands-on experiences and classroom learning.

The Aquarium Science Program received major funding from the National Science Foundation, Regional Investment Board and Lincoln County Economic Development Alliance. Partnerships have been forged with Oregon Sea Grant, Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center and numerous aquarium product manufacturers. Significant local support has also been developed.

For information about the Aquarium Science Program, contact Bruce Koike at (541) 574-7130 or bkoike@occc.cc.or.us, or Dave Beran at (541) 574-7140 or dberan@occc.cc.or.us