Watershed science is the study of the physical, chemical, and biological processes associated with the movement of water across the landscape. Clean and adequate water supplies are essential elements of human society, and understanding the interactions between water and the rest of the world is necessary to the management of all ecosystems.
Ranked third nationally in research productivity in aquatic sciences, the department deploys experiential learning opportunities through field trips to local rivers, streams, and lakes where students can gain hands-on experience within the environments they study. Watershed scientists work throughout the nation, as well as in other developed and developing countries, with the goal of understanding, managing, and restoring water supplies, water quality, and ecosystem health.
With a degree in watershed and earth systems, students may pursue the following careers:
- Hydrologist
- Wetlands specialist with federal and state agencies (USDA Forest Service, US Geological Survey, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Reclamation, etc.)
- Conduct field research and analyses for private consulting firms
- Managing watersheds or wetlands for nonprofit organizations, conservation districts, state agencies or EPA
- Environmental scientist
- Fishery biologist
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