Water Resources Engineering

Water resources engineers are concerned with the structures and processes related to water supplies for human consumption and the removal of water for safety. Read on for information about relevant training and career options.

Inside Water Resources Engineering

Water resources engineering is a specialty of civil engineering that focuses on water supplies, irrigation and waste disposal. It also addresses methods for controlling water to avoid water-related damage and catastrophes.

Education Information

Degrees in water resources engineering are not common, but do exist. Students can also earn degrees in civil, environmental or structural engineering while specializing in water resources. Regardless of the type of degree, undergraduate and graduate programs in water resources engineering require a solid foundation in science and technology.

Major coursework addresses topics in fluid mechanics, water quality, resource development, subsurface hydrology and aquatic transport. Graduate-level students can sometimes choose to focus on subsurface water, surface water or watershed modeling. The following Study.com articles can help you choose the right education path for becoming a water resources engineer.

Distance Learning Options

Students pursuing water resources engineering degrees can study online at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Options range from online civil engineering courses, hybrid programs and fully online degree programs. Review the links below for more details about online learning programs.

Career Options

Students who specialize in water resources engineering prepare for a number of engineering related jobs that require knowledge of hydrology, fluid mechanics or water transport. Opportunities could be found in agriculture, manufacturing, government and business.

A bachelor's degree might lead to a job as a government official or an engineer. Graduate education could qualify individuals for more advanced opportunities in government, industry or academia. Experts in water resources engineering might also work as city planners. Engineers who work directly with the public must be licensed. Read more about employment options below.

Continuing Education Options

Professionals in water resources engineering generally must pursue continuing education to learn the latest technological advancements and changes. Advanced degrees, certificates and online courses provide opportunities for engineers to remain competitive in the field.

Employment Outlook and Salary Information

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipated a 6% job growth for civil engineers and a 5% increase for environmental engineers during the 2018-2028 period. Job growth was estimated to concentrate in the consulting, research and development industries. The BLS reported that median salary figures for these fields were roughly the same, with civil engineers earning $87,060 and environmental engineers making $88,860 as of May 2019 (www.bls.gov).

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