| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-01-15 | - |
| 2024-10-15 | - |
Program Overview
The Water Resources Management (WRM) program is an interdisciplinary graduate program leading to a Master of Science degree. The program addresses the complex aspects of managing water resources by integrating biological and physical sciences, engineering, law, and social sciences. Graduates are prepared for careers in water resources planning, engineering, science, policy analysis, and management.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Water Resources Management (WRM) program is an interdisciplinary graduate program leading to a master of science (M.S.) degree in water resources management. The program addresses the complex, interdisciplinary aspects of managing water resources by helping students integrate the biological and physical sciences (which identify and assess problems) with engineering (which defines technological alternatives) as well as law and the social sciences (which assess needs and potential for institutional response). Through the WRM program, a student gains breadth in relevant planning and management areas while developing depth in an area specialty. The water resources management degree is designed to prepare students for employment as water resources management professionals. Rather than conduct individual research projects, WRM students participate in a group practicum workshop with a water resources management focus. Students who wish to add individual research credentials to their records frequently arrange to complete a second, simultaneous master's program in one of the university's traditional departments. Those interested primarily in individual research may wish to consider the Nelson Institute's Environment and Resources program as an alternative. The WRM program does not offer a doctoral degree.
Objectives:
The WRM program's overall objectives are to: Expand their knowledge of the physical, chemical, biological, and social sciences and learn how to apply this knowledge to the management of water resources. Understand water resource decision-making at governance levels from local to national. Use a wide range of analytical tools to sustainably manage water resources. Participate in as well as lead interdisciplinary teams. Orally and in writing communicate to stakeholders the findings and recommendations of interdisciplinary projects. Have an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility.
Outline:
Content:
The WRM program curriculum covers a wide range of topics related to water resources management, including:
- The physical, chemical, and biological sciences related to water resources.
- The social, economic, and political aspects of water resources management.
- The legal and regulatory framework for water resources management.
- The planning and design of water resources systems.
- The operation and management of water resources systems.
Structure:
The WRM program is a two-year program that consists of coursework, a practicum, and a thesis. Students are required to complete 45 credits of coursework, including 19 credits in natural science and technology, 29 credits in water resources institutions and public decision-making processes, and 36 credits in analytical and design tools in water resources. Students must also complete a 6-credit practicum and a 6-credit thesis.
Course Schedule:
The WRM program offers courses in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. The following is a sample course schedule for the WRM program:
Fall Semester
- Water Resources Management I
- Water Resources Law
- Water Resources Economics
- Water Resources Planning
Spring Semester
- Water Resources Management II
- Water Resources Engineering
- Water Resources Policy
- Water Resources Finance
Summer Semester
- Water Resources Practicum
- Water Resources Thesis
Individual Modules with Module Descriptions:
- Natural Science and Technology: This category includes courses that provide students with a foundation in the physical, chemical, and biological sciences related to water resources. Some examples of courses in this category include:
- Limnology and Marine Science Seminar
- Algae
- Dendrology: Woody Plant Identification and Ecology
- Environmental Biogeography
- Hydrology
- Water Chemistry
- Small Watershed Engineering
- Water Resources Institutions and Public Decision-Making Processes: This category includes courses that provide students with an understanding of the social, economic, political, and legal aspects of water resources management. Some examples of courses in this category include:
- Environmental Economics
- Energy Economics
- Natural Resource Economics
- Environmental Law
- Water Rights Law
- Public Program Evaluation
- Public Policy-Making Process
- Analytical and Design Tools in Water Resources: This category includes courses that provide students with the analytical and design tools necessary to manage water resources systems. Some examples of courses in this category include:
- Statistical Methods for Bioscience I
- Statistical Methods for Bioscience II
- GIS and Spatial Analysis
- Hydrogeology
Careers:
Graduates of the WRM program are prepared for a variety of careers in water resources management, including:
- Water resources planners
- Water resources engineers
- Water resources scientists
- Water resources policy analysts
- Water resources managers
- Environmental consultants
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Overview:
University of Wisconsin–Madison is a public research university located in Madison, Wisconsin. It is known for its strong academic programs, extensive research enterprise, and vibrant campus life. The university is guided by the Wisconsin Idea, a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of using knowledge to improve the lives of people beyond the campus.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing centers, and career services.Student Life:
Student organizations, recreational facilities, cultural events, and health services.Technology:
Access to computer labs, online resources, and software.Housing:
On-campus residence halls and off-campus housing options.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at UW–Madison can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university boasts a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a lively social scene. The city of Madison offers a variety of cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
UW–Madison is home to a wide range of academic programs, including highly ranked programs in engineering, business, medicine, and the humanities.Research Opportunities:
The university is a leading research institution, offering students opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research projects.Wisconsin Idea:
The university's commitment to public service provides students with opportunities to make a positive impact on the world.Vibrant Campus Life:
UW–Madison offers a lively and engaging campus experience with a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a variety of cultural events.Location:
Madison is a beautiful and vibrant city with a strong sense of community.Academic Programs:
UW–Madison offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Engineering:
The College of Engineering is highly ranked and offers programs in areas such as computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.Business:
The Wisconsin School of Business is known for its strong programs in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.Medicine:
The School of Medicine and Public Health is a leading institution in medical research and education.Humanities:
The university offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, including English, history, philosophy, and art history.Other:
Athletics:
UW–Madison is a member of the Big Ten Conference and has a strong athletic tradition.Alumni Network:
The university has a large and active alumni network, providing students with valuable connections after graduation.Sustainability:
UW–Madison is committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.Entry Requirements:
Any person who attended an accredited institution and earned an undergraduate degree there in the biological sciences, earth sciences, economics, education, engineering, history, journalism, landscape architecture, law, mathematics, physical science, political science, urban and regional planning, or other relevant field may apply for admission to the WRM program.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Every applicant whose native language is not English or whose undergraduate instruction was not in English must provide an English proficiency test score and meet the Graduate School minimum requirements.
