Hydrology programs teach people about the water cycle and Earth's processes. Students learn about the interaction between surface water and the water deep underground. They learn how water shapes landscapes and rivers. They also learn to manage water quality and use.
Although the Earth is mostly made up of water, only a small fraction of the water is fresh, and even less is accessible. Without water, we could not exist. Yet, too much water causes damaging floods. When you study hydrology, you learn about the natural balance of the water cycle.
Water is all around us. It's in the air, in lakes, on snow-capped mountains, and deep in the ground. Did you know the Antarctic ice sheet is three miles thick? That's a lot of water! As you study this program, you learn about aquifers or water trapped in rock layers. You learn about water movement from the aquifers to the surface and back again. You also learn how chemicals that are used to kill bugs or weeds on your lawn can eventually make their way into the groundwater when it rains.
Much of what you learn has to do with protecting existing water resources and finding new sources. You learn about where and how to drill water wells. You might spend time doing fieldwork to collect samples to take back to the lab to analyze. Your training prepares you to advise farmers or city planners on ways to use water resources wisely. In addition, you learn about ways to reclaim polluted water. You may also study ways to convert salty water into usable drinking water. Some of your training focuses on engineering. Drainage basins and reservoirs play an important role in keeping the water cycle in balance. You can use your knowledge and skills in hydrology to educate others about the need to protect the nation's valuable water resources.
A small number of colleges in the U.S. offer a bachelor's degree program in hydrology. About 20 colleges offer interdisciplinary programs that are a blend of civil engineering and geology. They take four or five years of full-time study beyond high school. You could also major in geology and take as many hydrology and engineering electives as possible. A bachelor's degree prepares you for entry-level positions in government agencies, environmental consulting, or other applications.
An advanced degree may let you specialize more. In addition, most jobs in this field require at least a master's degree. It takes about six years beyond high school to complete a master's degree program. To do advanced research, a doctoral degree is necessary. A Ph.D. in hydrology may take an additional two to three years. About 10 schools offer graduate degrees in this field.