Education · 1 of 5
The path
A science degree, then a choice: go to work, or add a master's and go deeper.
- 1
High school diploma
Grade 12
Physics, chemistry, calculus and any computing class. Earth science if your school has it.
- 2
Bachelor's degree
4 years
Hydrology, watershed science, geology, environmental science or civil engineering. Look for a program that makes you do real field work, not just lectures.
- 3
Summer field work
Summers
A technician job with a state water agency, a national forest or a consulting firm. Measuring flows in waders is how you learn this field.
- 4
First job or graduate school
2 more years for a master's
The federal profile lists a bachelor's or master's degree as the usual requirement. Research and university jobs generally need a doctorate.
- 5
Certification and specialization
After several years of experience
Voluntary certification as a hydrologist, or a professional engineer license if you drift into design work.