Hydrology and Water Resources

The Hydrology and Water Resources program at the University of California offers students a comprehensive education in the scientific and engineering principles governing water systems. This interdisciplinary program prepares students to address critical water-related challenges such as water supply management, flood control, water quality assessment, and environmental sustainability. Through a rigorous curriculum combining courses in hydrology, water resources engineering, environmental science, and policy, students develop a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of water systems. The program emphasizes hands-on experiences through laboratory work, field studies, and research projects, enabling students to apply their knowledge to real-world problems. Students will explore key topics including surface and groundwater hydrology, hydraulic engineering, water resource planning and management, climate impacts on water systems, and watershed governance. The program also encourages students to consider the social, economic, and ecological implications of water resource decisions, preparing them for leadership roles in government agencies, consulting firms, research institutions, and nonprofit organizations. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, students have opportunities to contribute to innovative projects aimed at developing sustainable water solutions. Faculty members are renowned experts in hydrology and water resources, providing mentorship and guidance that fosters academic excellence and professional development. Graduates of the program are equipped with the skills necessary to analyze complex water issues, design effective management strategies, and contribute to policy-making processes. Overall, the Hydrology and Water Resources program at UC combines academic rigor with practical experience to prepare the next generation of water resource specialists committed to solving pressing water challenges locally and globally.

• CEE 271 Flow in Unsaturated Porous Media
• CEE 272 Groundwater Hydrology
• CEE 273 Watershed Modeling
• CEE 274 Climate Data Analysis
• CEE 276 Hydrology
• CEE 277 Hydrologic Transport Fundamentals
• CEE 278 Fluid Mechanics of Open Channels
• CEE 279 Hydrologic Computational Modeling
• CEE 283 Mathematical Methods in Engineering Analysis
• CEE 289 Analysis of Hydrologic Systems
• CEE 290 Merging Models and Data
• CEE 291 Hydrologic Remote Sensing
• CEE 295 Seminar in Engineering
• CEE 298 Sustainable Urban Water Systems 

Requirements

1. Completed Online Application: Please note that a completed online application includes paying the Application Fee
2. Bachelor’s Degree Transcripts: Applicants must submit one set of official transcripts from all institutions they attended prior to graduating with a B.S. degree
3. Master’s Degree Transcripts (if applicable): Applicants must submit one set of transcripts for any graduate-level work completed
4. Official GRE General Test Scores: Applicants are not required to take GRE subject tests
5. Official TOEFL or ILETS scores (if applicable): Applicants who are international students or permanent residents who earned a degree outside of the U.S. are required to submit a TOEFL or ILETS test scores
6. Three (3) Letters of Recommendation: We recommend that at least two letters be from academia. The third could be another letter from academia, a supervisor, a mentor, etc.

Scholarships

• Fellowships or Grants
• Teaching or Research Assistantships 
• Need-based Financial Aid
• Personal Resources 

The University of California offers a comprehensive program in Hydrology and Water Resources aimed at preparing students to address critical issues related to water management, sustainability, and environmental protection. This interdisciplinary program combines principles from earth sciences, engineering, and environmental studies to equip students with a robust understanding of the water cycle, water resource systems, and the impact of human activities on water quality and availability. Students enrolled in this program gain practical skills through coursework, laboratory work, and field research, enabling them to analyze hydrological data, model water systems, and develop sustainable solutions for water-related challenges. The curriculum typically covers topics such as hydrological processes, water resource engineering, groundwater hydrology, surface water hydrology, water policy, and climate impacts on water resources. Graduates are prepared for careers in water resource management, environmental consultancy, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and academia. The program emphasizes research and innovation, providing opportunities for students to contribute to advancing knowledge in hydrology and water resource sustainability. Faculty members are distinguished researchers and practitioners dedicated to fostering an engaging educational environment. The program also encourages collaboration with industry partners and involvement in real-world research projects, ensuring students are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of water resource challenges worldwide.