Bridgeport Aquaculture College Alliance (BACA)

The goal of the BACA Program is to offer students the practical knowledge and skills necessary to pursue either employment in the marine environment or a smooth transition to the many post-secondary educational available.

The BACA Program is designed primarily for 12th grade students who have expressed a desire for a concentrated, interdisciplinary approach to aquaculture education. Students will be responsible for the practical application of principles and concepts of biology, chemistry, physics, math, history, earth science and astronomy as it relates to aquaculture. Students enrolled in the BACA Program are awarded up to 5 (five) credits. The integrated course of studies offers an in -depth study of aquaculture to include the origins of aquaculture (history), aquatic ecosystems, (math and science), aquaculture engineering (math, science and technology) and survey and analysis (math and science). The activities of the program are enhanced by the use of the research vessel, M/V Catherine Moore.

Students are involved in a great variety of projects. They will have the opportunity to work side-by-side with marine scientists, business people and representatives from institutions of higher learning, both local and international.Computers are used to develop research skills, data collection and interpretation and to develop student- generated presentations for meetings and conferences.

Field trips to various sites are an integral part of the reinforcement of the principles learned in class. Many internships become available to BACA students during the school year. The Norwalk Maritime Museum, the Milford NOAA laboratory, the University of Connecticut and Aquarion have offered these internships in the past.

BACA Courses

AQ 41 - Aquaculture Survey & Analysis

In this course students study and apply concepts of probability and statistics that are required to support research in aquaculture.

AQ 43 - The Origins of Aquaculture

This course examines the critical issues that have affected the growth and development of world aquaculture throughout history, from ancient Chinese fish culture to modern aquaculture production methods.

AQ 96 - ECE Environmental Science & AQ 97 - ECE Oceanography

Environmental Science is a study of the influences that can alter ecosystems with particular attention given to ocean and fresh water environments. Sources and effects of natural and man-made pollutants will be explored through case studies and field research. Students will culminate units on the various issues by exploring available means to solve problems.

AQ 44 - Aquaculture Engineering

This course develops student competencies in the production of an aquaculture crop.

To learn more about these courses, visit our courses page.