Watershed Science - PhD

Utah State University is the only university in the state with a college devoted to the study of natural resources, and the watershed science degrees are unique in that they allow students the opportunity to integrate physics, chemistry, and biology to understand watershed systems. Students in the program study water-related physical processes, including climate, surface and ground water, river formation, soil sciences, and water chemistry. This discipline focuses on protecting aquatic systems and includes coursework in hydrology, geomorphology, stream restoration, water pollution, climate change, and aquatic habitats. Graduates are prepared to work as hydrologists, wetland specialists, and watershed managers for federal and state agencies. Each student has an individualized plan of study created for them by their graduate committee. Students are able to take courses in other departments on campus, including civil and environmental engineering; plants, soils, and climate; and geology. This program encourages students to gain a broad-based education in areas related to watershed systems and water resource use.

The Department of Watershed Sciences combines coursework and research in aquatic ecology, hydrology, geomorphology, and climate science into an integrative interdisciplinary aquatic sciences program. Our degree programs prepare students for careers in natural resources research and management. Our recent graduates have secured employment with federal and state agencies, universities, and private organizations.

Our department offers graduate programs at both the Master and Doctoral levels in Watershed Science.