Hydrology and Water Resources Management MSc

Program Overview

The MSc in Hydrology and Water Resources Management is a one-year multidisciplinary program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical background and practical considerations of hydrology and water resources management. The program combines coursework, examinations, and practical experience to equip students with the skills necessary to address modern challenges in hydrology, such as the impact of human activities on water distribution and quality, pollutant transport, and climate change. Graduates are qualified for careers in hydrology, water resources management, and related fields, including engineering, geology, physics, statistics, and environmental policy.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This MSc program in Hydrology and Water Resources Management is a one-year, multidisciplinary course designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical background and practical design considerations of hydrology and water resources management. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the modern-day challenges facing hydrologists, including the impact of manmade changes on water distribution and quality, pollutant transport, and climate change. The program delves into the physical and life sciences, mathematical sciences, and systems analysis, providing a robust foundation in hydrology. Students will also gain practical experience through field visits and an individual research project in an area of their choice.

Outline:

The program is structured around core modules that cover a wide range of topics in hydrology and water resources management.

Core Modules:

• Environmental Fluid Mechanics: This module explores the principles of fluid mechanics and hydraulics, applying these theories to practical applications in river and environmental engineering.
• Hydrogeology and Groundwater: This module examines key concepts in hydrogeology related to the movement, storage, and quality of groundwater, and develops models to explain groundwater behavior.
• Meteorology and Climate Change: This module introduces students to the atmospheric processes that govern Earth's climate and control the surface water fluxes of the hydrological cycle.
• Urban Hydrology and Urban Drainage: This module analyzes the effects of urbanization on the hydrological cycle and teaches students how to apply basic methods of hydrological analysis.
• Environmental Modelling and Data Analysis: This module provides a mathematical foundation for environmental data analysis and develops the computational skills required for numerical modeling and data analysis.
• Contaminated Land and Groundwater: This module explores the problems associated with contaminated land resulting from the unmanaged release of pollutants into the environment.
• Sustainable Water Management: This module provides insights into the interrelationships between water, health, and food security and explores how these interrelationships can be managed effectively.

Other Modules:

• Hydrology Design Project: Students work in groups on two practical hydrological problems, applying concepts and theory learned throughout the course.
• Research Project: Students undertake a specific piece of independent research, which can take the form of a critical review, laboratory or field-based experimental investigation, modeling
  umerical analysis project, or a design-related project.
This project enhances technical, research, and communication skills and culminates in a written research paper and a visual poster.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a balanced approach to assessment, combining coursework and examinations.

Assessment Methods:

• Coursework: This includes group projects and presentations, research dissertations, research posters, laboratory practicals, and written assignments.

Teaching:

The program employs a variety of teaching and learning methods to cater to diverse learning styles.

Teaching Methods:

• Lectures: These provide a structured overview of key concepts and theories.
• Tutorials: These offer opportunities for students to engage with the material in a more interactive setting, clarifying concepts and addressing specific questions.
• Seminars and Workshops: These provide a platform for in-depth discussions, case studies, and practical exercises.
• Computing Labs: These provide hands-on experience with software and tools used in hydrological modeling and data analysis.
• Group Work: This encourages collaboration and teamwork, fostering communication and problem-solving skills.
• Design Projects: These provide practical applications of theoretical knowledge, allowing students to work on real-world hydrological challenges.
• Individual Research Project: This allows students to delve deeper into a specific area of interest, developing independent research skills.
• Virtual Learning Environment: This provides access to course materials, online resources, and communication tools.
• Field Data Collection and Overseas Research: This offers opportunities for students to gain practical experience in real-world settings.

Careers:

The MSc in Hydrology and Water Resources Management prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in hydrology, water resources management, and related fields.

Potential Career Paths:

• Hydrology: This includes roles in hydrological modeling, data analysis, flood risk assessment, and water resource management.
• Physics: This includes roles in atmospheric science, climate modeling, and environmental physics.
• Statistics: This involves applying statistical methods to hydrological data analysis and modeling.
• Systems Engineering: This involves designing and implementing complex water resource systems.
• Business: This includes roles in water resource consulting, environmental management, and sustainability.
• Consultancy: This involves providing expert advice on hydrological and water resource management issues.
• Government: This includes roles in water resource policy development, regulation, and management.

Other:

The program is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM), which includes the Institution of Civil Engineers, Institution of Structural Engineers, Institute of Highway Engineers, Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation, and Permanent Way Institution.

Note:

The program is subject to change, and it is recommended to check with the relevant department for the most up-to-date information.

Tuition fees:

Home fee: £17,600 Overseas fee: £40,900