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Master of Science (M.S.)

Master of Science (M.S.) programs in WRS consist of:

  1. Four Core Courses (one each from Hydrology, Environmental Chemistry, Limnology, and Water Policy)

  2. One Water Quality Elective

  3. Two (or more) Courses in an Area of Emphasis

  4. At least 6 semester credits from a Related Field

  5. Registration for the WRS Seminar Series (WRS 8100) during the first semester in residence.

  6. Training in Ethics and Responsible Conduct of research

  7. A thesis (M.S. Plan A) or plan B paper (M.S. Plan B)

M.S. Plan A

The M.S. Plan A option is intended primarily for students who have some undergraduate background in water-related course work and thus already have met some of the core requirements of the M.S. program. This degree option conforms with Graduate School standards and requires:

  • A minimum of 14 course credits in the major field
  • 6 credits in a related field or designated minor
  • 10 credits of thesis work and the successful completion and defense of an M.S. thesis.

Plan A course work is individualized to reflect a student's preparation, degree goals and research topic. Your thesis must be written on a research project that you carry out in consultation with your faculty advisor.

M.S. Plan B

The M.S. Plan B requires that all degree credits be obtained through course-work. No thesis is required, but each student must demonstrate the ability to work independently by completing one or more project papers. The Plan B option is especially attractive to students who have little formal undergraduate course work in water resources science and thus need more course work to gain the combination of depth and breadth needed in this field.

It also may appeal to students wishing to pursue the Ph.D. degree who would like to receive an M.S. degree as an interim accomplishment. Plan B projects involve field, laboratory or computer work and the analysis, synthesis, and/or interpretation of data. Students may register for three credits of independent study in water resources science for their work on Plan B projects.

Graduate School forms for M.S. students