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Hydrologist

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AVG. SALARY

$85,690

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EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics cluster Science and Mathematics pathway.

Beyond High School

Here's a list of programs that you should consider if you're interested in this career:

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

Bachelor's degree

Hydrologists typically need a bachelor's degree in physical science or a related field, such as natural resources. Employers sometimes prefer to hire candidates who have a master's degree. Hydrologists conducting research or teaching at the postsecondary level typically need a Ph.D.

Insider Info

Additional Information

You'd better have a head for figures if you're interested in hydrology. "If you don't like math, don't become a hydrologist," says Michael Mark, a hydrologist in Pennsylvania.

Hydrologists have various educational backgrounds. Some have bachelor's degrees in hydrology or water quality. Others enter the field with degrees in engineering, meteorology, geology or other earth sciences. Most hydrologists have some kind of postgraduate training in hydrology.

Any practical experience you can get in this field would be a big help.

"Good practical experience can be gained by working paid, or volunteer for government agencies which deal with the environment, wildlife or forestry," says hydrologist Geoff Harris.

Experts say courses and programs in civil engineering are also useful.

Hydrology can be taken as part of a four-year bachelor's degree in science or as part of a graduate studies program. Most people in this field opt for the graduate studies program.

Extra Requirements

Voluntary certification is available from the Society of Wetland Scientists Wetland Certification.

For additional information, visit these websites:

Contact

  • Email Support

  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900

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OCAP believes that financial literacy and understanding the financial aid process are critical aspects of college planning and student success. OCAP staff who work with students, parents, educators and community partners in the areas of personal finance education, state and federal financial aid, and student loan management do not provide financial, investment, legal, and/or tax advice. This website and all information provided is for general educational purposes only, and is not intended to be construed as financial, investment, legal, and/or tax advice.