Watershed Science and Sustainability Major and Minor - Warner College of Natural Resources

Watershed science is the interdisciplinary study of the natural processes and human activities that affect fresh water resources. Water is a critical component of Earth’s ecosystems and is used for human consumption, agriculture, energy production, transportation, and recreation. Management of fresh water resources is an increasingly important and complex challenge in Colorado and worldwide.

The Watershed Science and Sustainability program capitalizes on its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, High Plains, and inter-montane basins of Colorado, to give students unique educational opportunities in outdoor laboratories, as well as in traditional classrooms and laboratory settings. Upper-level undergraduates are able to participate in internships, volunteer activities, co-operative educational opportunities or summer jobs in watershed science, to enhance practical training and development.

Did you know?

Find curriculum highlights, check sheets, and much more on our Undergraduate Program Curriculum and Course Offerings page.
Our Academic Success Coordinators provide advising and guidance for students. View their contact information and additional student resources on our Advising and Student Resources page.

Areas of Study

Students begin the degree with a solid foundation in physical and natural sciences in preparation for upper-division courses emphasizing experiential learning and the ability to incorporate studies in earth science, ecology, and sustainability. Courses include:

Sustainable Watersheds
Land Use Hydrology and Water Quality
Watershed Measurements
Natural Resource Ecology and Measurements
Snow Hydrology and Seasonal Snow Environments
Watershed Problem Analysis

The Watershed Science Minor provides a background in core watershed science classes, including water resources, hydrology, and the watershed practicum field course. The minor offers a broad and flexible selection of additional courses that emphasize both physical and societal aspects of water. Students can select the combination of courses that best fits their interests and complements their major.

Upon graduation, Watershed Science and Sustainability students will:

Demonstrate an understanding of the key concepts in watershed science, including surface and subsurface hydrology and water quality.
Demonstrate understanding of land use effects on fresh water resources.
Develop skills in collection and analysis of meteorological, hydrological, and water quality data.
Develop skills in watershed problem analysis, including the use of watershed models.
Demonstrate strong critical thinking, writing, and oral communication skills.
Continue on to productive careers in academia, business, and governmental organizations, or be well-prepared for graduate school.

The Watershed Science and Sustainability degree also qualifies students within two professional hydrologist certifications.

Similar Majors

Bachelor’s of Science in Ecosystem Science and Sustainability

Bachelor of Science in Geology

Beyond the Classroom

At Warner College, the classroom is just the beginning.
Opportunities for getting outside to learn, do research, and recreate are extensive.

Field Courses

Students participate in immersive field courses at CSU Mountain Campus and beyond.

Research

Undergraduate students can participate in research projects to further their education.

Study Abroad

Take your education international and spend a semester abroad. More Warner College students study abroad than any other college at CSU.

Connect with Other Students

Watershed Club Ecosystem Science and Sustainability (ESS) Club

Career Opportunities

Employment opportunities may be found in consulting firms, government agencies, international development and resource management agencies, non-profit organizations, and private industry.

USDA Forest Service
Watershed Science and Engineering, Inc.
ELEMENT Water Consulting
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Environmental Science Associates
Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed
Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District
Tetra Tech

Completion of the Watershed Science and Sustainability undergraduate degree qualifies students for a wide variety of careers in hydrology and water resources management. Examples of possible Watershed Science careers include:

Watershed scientist
Hydrologist
Environmental Consultant
Water Quality Analyst
Watershed Manager or Analyst
Water Resource Specialist
Water Conservation Technician

Questions?

Carmyn Ginnetti

College Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator

carmyn.ginnetti@colostate.edu

Learn in Fort Collins

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Located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins provides extensive access to hundreds of miles of trails for biking and hiking, world-class fishing and rock climbing, and camping, all in an area with over 300 days of sun per year.

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