Graduates will be trained in public administration, policy theory, and will have practical experience in the professional arena, either through internships conducted as part of the degree program or (in some cases) through previous work experience.

Graduates of the WRPM program will be able to conduct thorough policy analyses of water resource-related issues that can help inform policy decisions in the public and private sector. Students should have a B.S. or B.A. degree from an accredited institution emphasizing natural resources, management, or policy, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (4.0 scale), and satisfactory GRE scores (determined by the Water Resources curriculum committee).

In addition to the Water Resources program core courses (6 credits), students in the WRPM program will be required to take 9 credits of methods and numerical skills courses, 6 credits of basic water science courses, 23 credits of policy and management courses, and 9 credits of project or thesis preparation. The program is designed to accommodate student's individual areas of interest and each will work with an advisor to tailor an appropriate program.