Program Overview

Water Science and Management - Doctor of Philosophy

The Doctor of Philosophy in Water Science and Management is designed to provide students with a comprehensive knowledge of water science and hydrology, as well as training in research methods. This degree can be earned in approximately 33-35 credits of formal coursework beyond the Master's degree, plus 18 additional dissertation research credits, for a minimum total of 75 credits beyond the Bachelor's degree.

Program Requirements

The program requires the following coursework:

• Core Courses:
  • AEEC 575: Economics of Water Resource Management and Policy (3 credits)
  • RGSC 518: Watershed Methods and Management (3 credits)
  • or SOIL 456: Irrigation and Drainage
  • C E 557: Water Resources Development (3 credits)
• Select one from the following:
  • GEOG 578: Fundamentals of Geographic Information Science (GIS) (4 credits)
  • GEOG 588: GIS and Water Resources (3 credits)
• Select one from the following:
  • A ST 505: Statistical Inference I (4 credits)
  • C E 582: Statistical Hydrology (3 credits)
  • GEOG 585: Advanced Spatial Analysis (3 credits)
• Select one from the following Seminar Courses:
  • WSAM 605: Arid Land Water Resources (3 credits)
  • WSAM 610: Water and Sustainable Economic Development (3 credits)
  • GEOG 501: Research Design and History of Geographic Thought (3 credits)
• Electives (in consultation with the student's committee): 27 credits
• Dissertation:
  • WSAM 700: Doctoral Dissertation (18 credits)
• Total Credits: 63-65

Additional Requirements

Students are expected to have a basic foundation in Geographic Information System (GIS) within a classroom, research experience, or professional experience. Students without this background are required to take an appropriate GIS class as advised by their advisor, such as:

• GEOG 578: Fundamentals of Geographic Information Science (GIS)
• FWCE 535: Special Topics

Concentrations

This degree has five available concentrations:

• Agricultural Water Resources
• Water Economics and Policy
• Water Informatics
• Water Quality and Treatment
• Watersheds and Aquatic/Riparian Wetlands

Research Areas

The program focuses on various research areas, including water science, hydrology, and management. Students will have the opportunity to work with experienced faculty members and contribute to ongoing research projects.