An associate's degree program in hydrology and water resources focuses on circulation, distribution, occurrence, physical properties and environmental interaction of subsurface waters. You will study fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, chemical physicals, geophysics and continental water processes. An associate's degree normally takes two years.
A bachelor's program in hydrology will equip you with a knowledge of both global and regional water issues. You will also study about water circulation, distribution, climate change, hazardous materials, and water maintenance for agricultural, industrial and human consumption. The program course work typically includes both classroom study and fieldwork in geology, environmental studies, ocean geography, water policy and research methods.
After obtaining a bachelor's graduate degree, students can seek out a master's program if they are interested in a research-oriented career. A master's program will let you choose specialization in a hydrology sub-field, such as vadose zone hydrology, surface water hydrology, water resource evaluation or watershed hydrology. After getting a master's degree, you can find a job in the private sector, an educational institute or the public sector.
PhD degree programs are for students who wish to pursue a career in a sub-specialty area. To enroll in a PhD program, you need to first obtain a bachelor's degree. Depending on your sub-specialty, you may also be required to undergo a particular amount of coursework in a subject like geology, physics or fluid mechanics. During the program, you will participate in various water research activities and will be required to defend a dissertation in which you will present your research findings.