Study the distribution, circulation and interaction of water with the environment, people, animals, and other living things. Hydrologists are scientists who study the distribution, circulation, and physical properties of underground and surface waters. They also study the form and intensity of precipitation and its rate of infiltration into the soil, movement through the earth, and return to the ocean and atmosphere.

Make a Difference

A Typical Day

  • Prepare written and oral reports describing research results, using illustrations, maps, and other information.
  • Design and conduct scientific hydrogeological investigations to ensure accurate information is available for water resource management decisions.
  • Measure and graph phenomena such as lake levels, stream flows, and changes in water volumes.
  • Apply research findings to help minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, and sedimentation.
  • Study and document quantities, distribution, disposition, and development of underground and surface waters.
 

Recommended Credentials

Bachelor's Degree

Education & Training

Regional employers often hire graduates of these programs.

 

Northwest Lower Michigan

 

Great Lakes Water Studies Institute
— Northwestern Michigan College

Sustainability
— North Central Michigan College

Elsewhere in Michigan

 

Conservation Biology or
Fisheries & Wildlife Management
— Lake Superior State University

Hydrogeology Graduate Certificate
— Western Michigan University

Explore This Career

Try it before you buy it!

Take Environmental Science Classes at your high school, like Earth Science. Learn more about the watery world around you!

The Local Advantage Learning Pathway

Pathway 1

See if your high school offers AP classes such as

  • AP Biology
  • AP Environmental Science
  • AP Chemistry

Dual enroll to start your Freshwater Studies Associate Degree.

Pathway 2

NMC's Freshwater Studies Program is a great opportunity to save money, while also getting hands-on experience.

Pathway 3

Conservation Biology or Fisheries & Wildlife Management
— Lake Superior State University, articulation with NMC

 

Sample Employers in Our Region

Click the logos below to learn more.

TIP

Contact one of these companies and ask for an informational interview, to see if you can job shadow, or to find out if they hire interns.

 

Sample Job Titles...

  • Groundwater Consultant
  • Hydrogeologist
  • Hydrologist
  • Source Water Protection Specialist
 

Hear It From The Pros

10-Year Job Growth Projections

N/A
10-County Region
N/A
Michigan
5%
U.S.

Employed Regionally

30
In 2021 (Michigan)

Wage Range & Median Michigan

$59,800
$100,730 
$130,620

Annual Hires Regionally

1
In 2021

Other Regional Career Resources

Learn more about Hydrologists‘ at O*NET Online.

Real World Career Pathways

It doesn't have to be a straight shot! Hear from people who have taken unique pathways.