Department of Marine Science

Overview

Courses
Marine Science Program:
Career Opportunities in Marine Science:
City University Learning Outcomes (CULOS)
Department of Marine Science
Department Learning Outcomes
Faculty Instructors
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
Foundation Program (Government Mandated)
City University Core courses
Structure of the program

Courses

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE-MARINE SCIENCE

Marine Science Program:

The Marine Science department at City University offers a four-year Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Science and Fisheries. This program takes a multidisciplinary approach and aims to provide students with a solid foundation in marine science. It also prepares them for diverse career opportunities and encourages further studies in the field of marine science and related areas.

Career Opportunities in Marine Science:

Marine science is the study of marine life and organisms in saltwater environments, including the ocean, sea, estuaries, salt marsh and wetlands. This field encompasses physical, chemical, biological, meteorological and geological aspects. Despite Somalia having the longest coastline in Africa, stretching 3033 KM, these valuable resources remain largely unexplored. However, there is now a growing emphasis on conserving and utilizing these resources for the country’s development. The City University is a leading institution in Somalia, offering high-quality education in marine science and fisheries. Students enrolled in this program gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Upon completing their degree, graduates have numerous job opportunities in various sectors such as the Ministries of Fisheries and Blue Economy, NGOs and INGOs, fish processing and export industries, media, banking, research and academic institutions, as well as in consulting, surveying, and other marine-related entrepreneurial ventures.

City University Learning Outcomes (CULOS)

City University Learning Outcomes (CULOS) are general, transferrable knowledge and skills that every City University graduate is expected to have met, regardless of the degree program. City University Learning Outcomes are developed through integrated curricular and co-curricular student experiences. These outcomes are achieved throughout the foundation program, the university-wide core courses, the degree program courses, and student experiences outside the classroom.

Critical thinking: City University graduates will be able to engage in inquiry, value examination, and creative problem-solving.
Communication: City University graduates will be able to communicate effectively and clearly both orally and in writing.
Leadership & teamwork: City University graduates will be able to participate constructively and interact effectively with others to accomplish common goals.

Technological competence: City University graduates will be able to properly use and evaluate technology in their professions both ethically and securely.

Research: City University graduates will be able to systematically investigate a research question, exploring, collecting, and analyzing evidence, to establish facts and make informed conclusions.

Global awareness: City University graduates will be able to explain globalization and its impact on them and their society while understanding their own and other cultures, and reacting to differences in an enlightened and socially responsible manner.

Local/National & Islamic awareness: City University graduates will be able to discuss the main features of Islamic civilization as well as the history and socio-politics of the Somali people.

Language: City University graduates will be able to communicate fluently in Somali and English, using the academic and professional conventions of these languages.

Delivery Mode

City University Learning Outcomes guide the development of degree programs and course-level learning outcomes.

Department of Marine Science

The department of marine science is dedicated to promoting research, education, and opportunities in marine science and fisheries with high standards, utilizing a multi-disciplinary approach.

Department Learning Outcomes

After successfully completing a degree in marine science and fisheries, students will have the ability to:

Knowledge: Demonstrate a grasp of the fundamental principles, concepts, and methodologies of marine science and related fields.
Communication: Effectively convey marine concepts through both oral and written presentations.
Critical thinking: Analyze and critically assess various aspects of the marine, coastal, and related domains.
Teamwork: Collaborate and work ethically and responsibly as part of interdisciplinary teams.
Research: Apply scientific knowledge and research techniques to address issues pertaining to the marine environment.
Global awareness: Tackle real-world problems in the field of marine science and fisheries.
Local/National Islamic Awareness: Acknowledge the social and cultural context associated with marine and coastal environments.

Faculty and Instructors

Dr. Arunachalam Sivakumar:

Dr. Arunachalam Sivakumar is the Head of the Marine Sciences Department and the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources at City University in Mogadishu. He holds a doctorate in marine biology and a master’s degree in marine biology and oceanography from Annamalai University, as well as a bachelor’s degree in education from Annamalai University. With over 30 years of experience in the field of marine science and fisheries, Dr. Sivakumar specializes in marine ecology, natural resource management, and community development. His research focuses on coastal systems, particularly mangrove ecology, fisheries and integrated mangrove-aqua farming. He has actively participated in numerous national and international conferences and workshops, where he has presented his research papers.

Ms. Fardowsa Mohamud Weheliye

Ms. Fardowsa M. Weheliye is a researcher and lecturer at City University, has over five years of experience in fisheries data and project coordination. She was among the first female graduates in marine science from Istanbul University, where she obtained her master’s degree. She has participated and presented her research in the national and international conferences workshops and training.

Mr. Mohamed Ali Abdi

Mr. Mohamed Ali Abdi is an experienced lecturer with over 40 years of teaching experience, specializing in coastal navigation and chart work. He holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Fishery Studies. Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Abdi has actively participated in and organized numerous training sessions and workshops that focus on boat handling and educational methodology. His extensive knowledge and unwavering dedication to the field have earned him a respected reputation in marine education.

Capt. Fuaad C Mohomoud

Fuad Omar Mohamoud is a lecturer in Shipping and Ports at City University, Mogadishu. With over 10 years of experience in port operations and management, he brings a wealth of knowledge and practical expertise to his students. His background in Harbour master, marine surveying, Marine accident investigation, port state inspector , marine pilotage and master of Human Resource Management provides a strong foundation for teaching and research in this field.

Mr. Liban Isse Farah

Mr. Liban Isse Farah is a lecturer and researcher at the City University of Mogadishu, with three years of teaching experience. He has both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in marine science. Mr. Liban Isse Farah teaches various courses, including Marine Biology, Fish Population Dynamics, Fundamentals of Aquaculture, and Coastal and Ocean Ecology. His research focuses on fish stock assessment, ichthyoplankton, conservation of vulnerable fish species, and the engagement of coastal communities in the conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. He has participated and presented his research papers in national and international conferences and training and published a book titled “Guide to Fishes of Somalia.” He is the Principal Investigator, MARG1 “Western Indian Ocean: on stock status of groupers along the Eastern coast of Somalia, funded by IUCN and WIOMSA.

Mr. Hassan Abdullahi Mao

Hassan is a lecturer at the department for the past one year. After completing his secondary education, Hassan began his studies at the City University of Mogadishu, Faculty of Marine Science and Fisheries, in 2015 and graduated with his first degree at the beginning of 2020. After graduating, he worked in the fisheries sector and then joined maritime security. He enrolled in the Higher Institute of Security Studies, gaining a higher diploma in security institution management. He participated in several workshops and seminars, both locally and internationally, and gained a lot of knowledge and experience that enhanced his career. Hassan is enthusiastic about marine science and fisheries, maritime security, and the blue economy as a whole.

In January 2023, Hassan started his Masters of Fisheries Management and Conservation at the City University of Mogadishu. Currently, he is the scholarship program coordinator.

Mr. Mohamed Ali

Mohamed Ali, a boat operator and part-time fisherman, is also an instructor in boat handling skills. With his deep love for the sea and extensive experience in navigating different bodies of water, Mohamed has developed his expertise in boat handling. He prioritizes safety and efficiency in all his maritime activities and imparts these skills to others through his teaching. Mohamed emphasizes the importance of safety, precision, and fostering a respectful attitude towards the marine environment.

Student Testimonials

“My journey from City University of Mogadishu’s Faculty of Marine Science to a Master’s in Sustainability Science in Japan has been instrumental in shaping my career path as a Global Eco-Solutions Engineer at Fuji Clean. At City University of Mogadishu, I developed a strong foundation in Fisheries & Aquatic Sciences and honed critical thinking skills that prepared me for the challenges of global environmental sustainability. Today, I am privileged to contribute to impactful projects in Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Southeast Asia, leveraging my education and leadership experience as President of the Student Government to drive innovation in sustainable development.” Abdihamid Ali Abdirahman, Class of 2018.

The marine science program at City University is a multidisciplinary program. By the time I graduated, I had been exposed to various relevant fields in marine science including fisheries, ocean biodiversity, environmental science, and nautical science. In addition, the program enabled me to have good research skills by providing the students special trainings in collaboration with other international universities. Also, the marine science students at City University are offered exceptional internship programs such as the fisheries catch data collection research project, Project Kalluun. Throughout my internship period on Project Kalluun, I learned valuable research skills including sampling methodology, statistical analysis, and data visualization. Mohamed Abdallah Mohamed- Class of 2020

Degree Requirements

S. No	Course Description	Subjects	Credit Hrs
1	University Foundation	11	28
2	University Core Required Courses	08	24
3	Department Required Courses	16	52
4	Concentration Required Courses	08	24
5	Electives	04	12
	Total	47	140

Foundation Program (Government Mandated)

Effective September 2023, the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Higher Education of the Federal Government of Somalia has mandated a one-year foundation program for all university students in Somalia. The Ministry’s directive has specified the foundation year’s minimum courses and credit hours, ensuring students are prepared for their academic journey. As a result, like any other university in the country, the City University of Mogadishu students will complete a well-structured foundation year program.

Foundation classes (Semester 1)

Course No.	Course	Contact Hours	Credit Hours
FND 051 FND 061 FND 071 FND 081 FND 091	Beginner English Elementary English Pre-Intermediate English Intermediate English Upper Intermediate English	16 Hours	3
FND 100	Introduction to University Context	1	1
FND 155	Essentials of Islam and Ethics	2	2
FND 265	Essentials of ICT/ Computer	2	2
MAR 105	Introduction to Marine Science	3	3
	Total	24	11

Foundation Course (Semester 2)

Course No.	Course	Contact Hours	Credit Hours
FND 100	Advanced English/ Writing	6	3
FND 145	Somali Language	4	3
FND 101	Critical Thinking	4	3
FND 148	Conflict Resolution	2	2
FND 235	Arabic Language	4	3
MATH 101	Pre-Calculus	4	3
	Total	24	17

City University Core Courses

The curriculum is divided into three parts: core courses, departmental-required courses, and concentration courses. Additionally, students have the flexibility to choose four elective subjects from a list of five.

UNIVERSITY CORE: REQUIRED COURSES

S. No	Course code	Course Title	Credit Hrs
1	UNI 123	Academic English (Writing)	3
2	UNI 121	Oral and Written Communication	3
3	UNI 117	Understanding Somali society and culture	3
4	UNI 132	Islamic Civilization	3
5	UNI 208	Statistics	3
6	UNI 310	Research Methods	3
7	UNI 321	Entrepreneurship Management	3
8	UNI 421	Globalization	3
		Total	24

DEPARTMENT REQUIRED COURSES

S. No	Course code	Course Title	Credit Hrs
1	BIO 101 & BIO 101 L	General Biology (with Lab)	4
2	MATH 103	Calculus I	3
3	MAR 110	Marine Practical Skills I	3
4	CHEM 131 & CHEM 131 L	General Chemistry (with Lab)	4
5	PHYS 160 & PHYS 160 L	University Physics I (with Lab)	4
6	MAR 201	Boat-Handling & Seamanship	3
7	ECON 203	Principles of microeconomics	3
8	MATH 203	Calculus II	3
9	CHEM 214	Organic Chemistry	3
10	PHYS 288 & PHYS 288 L	General Physics II (with Lab)	4
11	MAR 301	Marine Biology	3
12	MAR 350	Internship Practical training	3
13	MAR 441	Capstone Research Report-I	3
14	MAR 442	Capstone Research Report II	3
15	MAR 475	Coastal Navigation I	3
16	MAR 476	Coastal Navigation II Chart work	3
		Total	52

CONCENTRATION COURSES (Fisheries)

S. No	Course code	Course Title	Credit Hrs
1	MAR 233	Fundamentals of Marine Ecology	3
2	MAR 330	Invertebrate Zoology	3
3	MAR 331	Fundamentals of Aquaculture	3
4	MAR 339	Marine Microbiology	3
5	MAR 420	Fish Population and Dynamics	3
6	MAR 421	Applied Physiology of Fish	3
7	MAR 425	Fish Processing Technology	3
8	MAR 443	Introduction to Ichthyology	3
		Total	24

ELECTIVES (students choose four courses from the list)

S. No	Course Code	Course Title	Credit Hrs
1	MAR 454	Atmospheric Science	3
2	MAR 311	Shipping and Ports	3
3	MAR 400	Environmental Management	3
4	MAR 444	The Politics of the Ocean	3
5	MAR 453	World Fishing	3
		Total	12

Structure of the program

Semester 1

Course No.	Course	Contact Hours	Credit Hours
FND 051 FND 061 FND 071 FND 081 FND 091	Beginner English Elementary English Pre-Intermediate English Intermediate English Upper Intermediate English	16 Hours	3
FND 100	Introduction to University Context	1	1
FND 155	Essentials of Islam and Ethics	2	2
FND 265	Essentials of ICT/ Computer	2	2
MAR 105	Introduction to Marine Science	3	3
	Total	24	11

Semester 2

Course No.	Course	Contact Hours	Credit Hours
FND 100	Advanced English/ Writing	6	3
FND 145	Somali Language	4	3
FND 101	Critical Thinking	4	3
FND 148	Conflict Resolution	2	2
FND 235	Arabic Language	4	3
MATH 101	Pre-Calculus	4	3
	Total	24	17

Semester 3

Course No	Course	Credit Hours
UNI 123	Academic English	3
MATH 103	Calculus I	3
CHEM 131	General Chemistry-I	3
CHEM 131 L	General Chemistry-I Lab	1
MAR 110	Marine Practical Skills I	3
BIO 101	General Biology	3
BIO 101 L	General Biology-Lab	1
	Total	17

Semester 4

Course No	Course	Credit Hours
UNI 208	Statistics	3
CHEM 214	Organic Chemistry	3
MATH 203	Calculus II	3
PHYS 160	Physics-I	3
PHYS 160 L	Physics-I Lab	1
MAR 330	Invertebrate Zoology	3
	Total	16

Semester 5

Course No	Course	Credit Hours
UNI 121	Oral & Written Communication	3
MAR 301	Marine Biology	3
PHYS 288	Physics-II	3
PHYS 288 L	Physics-II Lab	1
MAR 475	Coastal Navigation I	3
	Total	13

Semester 6

Course No	Course	Credit Hours
UNI 117	Understanding the Somali Society and Culture	3
MAR 233	Fundamentals of Marine Ecology	3
MAR 331	Fundamentals of Aquaculture	3
MAR 201	Boat handling & Seamanship	3
ECON 203	Principles of microeconomics	3
	Total	15

Semester 7

Course No	Course	Credit Hours
UNI 310	Research Methods	3
MAR 339	Marine Microbiology	3
MAR 476	Coastal Navigation II Chart work	3
UNI 321	Environmental Management	3
MAR 443	Introduction to Ichthyology	3
	Total	15

Semester 8

Course No	Course	Credit Hours
UNI 132	Islamic Civilization	3
MAR 350	Field internship	3
MAR 311	Shipping and ports	3
MAR 420	Fish Population Dynamics	3
MAR 421	Applied Physiology of Fish	3
	Total	15

Semester 9

Course No	Course	Credit Hours
UNI 321	Entrepreneurship	3
MAR 453	World fishing	3
MAR 441	Capstone I	3
MAR 425	Fish Processing technology	3
	Total	12

Semester 10

Course No	Course	Credit Hours
UNI 421	Globalization	3
MAR 444	Ocean Politics	3
MAR 442	Capstone II	3
	Total	9

ABOUT CITY UNIVERSITY

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School of Continuing Education and Professional Development

MA Political Science – Public Administration

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