Graduate Studies in Water Resources
Coordinated in part by the Virginia Water Resources Research Center, these programs draw on faculty and coursework from across the university to prepare students for impactful careers in research, practice, and public service. Whether you're pursuing a full degree or adding a water credential through the Watershed Management Graduate Certificate, you'll find a wide range of pathways below.
Master's Degree in Water Resources
Our M.S. in Water Resources is science-forward, emphasizing hydrology, water quality, and data science, while intentionally integrating policy, governance, and watershed-scale management. Through an interdisciplinary cohort model and flexible thesis or non-thesis options, you'll develop the analytical and technical skills to address complex water challenges across research, management, and decision-making roles. Faculty support is central to admission—connect with advisors whose research aligns with your interests before applying.
Watershed Management Graduate Certificate
In addition to the graduate programs listed below, the Virginia Water Resources Research Center coordinates a university-wide Watershed Management Graduate Certificate for students interested in adding a water credential to their graduate degree. The Watershed Management Graduate Certificate at Virginia Tech requires the completion of 11 credit hours. Students must complete the core class “Land Use and Environment: Planning and Policy” and choose three other courses in Watershed Science and/or Watershed Analysis.
Graduate Programs in Water Resources at Virginia Tech
Graduate studies in water resources span programs and courses from five colleges to provide an interdisciplinary understanding of water science, engineering, policy, and management. These programs provide excellent opportunities for students to study water and develop the interdisciplinary skills necessary for effective professional work in water resources. The table below provides links to departments that offer water-related graduate opportunities at Virginia Tech. An additional list of individual faculty specializing in water can be found here. Graduate students may subscribe to a Virginia Tech Listserv by emailing Kevin McGuire. This is a controlled list and is for the dissemination of water related campus information (seminars, grant/fellowship opportunities, etc.).