Hydrology
Does Hydrology suit me?
Studying Hydrology
Hydrology is a field of study that examines water in various contexts and from different perspectives: from the investigation of the water cycle and drinking water supply to wastewater disposal and the effects of climate change. If you’d like to learn more about water in the environment, a degree in hydrology could be a great fit!
A hydrology degree program is science-based and imparts knowledge from biology, chemistry, and physics. You’ll gain insights into the water cycle, including evaporation and precipitation as well as surface and groundwater movement, and develop the ability to predict the behavior of water. You’ll also learn how to measure and analyze water quality.
Other topics include assessing flood and drought events and developing strategies to use water resources sustainably. You’ll be immersed in a broad field of study, as the content can also come from the fields of engineering, law, and economic sciences.
Hydrology as a field of study can be more management- or technology-oriented, which can often be identified by the program title or curriculum. Typical degree programs are called environmental hydrology, hydrology, water management, or hydraulic engineering, for example.
Personal requirements | Hydrology
- Enthusiasm for the natural sciences
- Mathematics knowledge
- Interest in water and ecology
- Analytical and logical way of thinking
- Strong communication skills and ability to work in a team
Study Choice Test
Find out which of the 143 fields of study suit you best! All you need is 7-15 minutes to answer 58 short questions - free of charge and without registration!
Take the testTypical course content | Hydrology
- Geochemistry
- Hydrogeology
- Aquatic ecology
- Water protection
- Water use and water supply
- Hydrochemistry
- Hydraulics and hydraulic engineering
- Water policy and water law
- Adaptation strategies to climate change
- Methods of field measurement
Career prospects | Hydrology
As a hydrologist, you’ll analyze the quality of drinking water, lakes, and rivers and evaluate the water cycle. You’ll design ecological concepts for water management, flood protection, and water protection or draw up plans for water supply, conservation, or wastewater disposal.
With a degree in hydrology, you can pursue a career in research, education, or nature conservation. Companies, organizations, and public authorities will rely on your expertise in the field of environmental and water resource management. You can also find work for companies in hydraulic engineering, water management, and the natural resources industry.
Compare your options
Unsure of what to choose? At studyamo you can compare all fields of study directly to get a clear view of which one best matches your expectations.