Water Resource Policy, M.S.
Water is a critical component for life. Even today, water conflict already exists in seemingly water-rich states such as Michigan. As the demand for water grows, issues and concerns related to water resources will become more acute. The availability of water resources over the long-term will be inherently linked to sound water resource policy.
Visit the program website for more information.
Listen to Podcast
Program Overview
The Master of Science in water resource policy will provide you with the foundation to take a leadership role in the development and implementation of future water resource policies. The curriculum is designed for a range of academic backgrounds including the sciences, public administration, political science, etc. In addition, the program has been developed to serve both traditional graduate students and professionals working in the environmental field.
Why Study Water Resource Policy at Grand Valley?
- This program is the first of its kind in the state of Michigan.
- The emerging need for well-trained water policy professionals. Demands on water resources will continue to grow over the next decade, which will drive program growth in the future.
- Relevant internship placements with organizations that deal with current and emerging water issues give you the opportunity to help research, discuss, and develop new policies.
- Opportunities for study at the Annis Water Resources Institute in Muskegon.
- Available to full- or part-time students. Many classes are offered in hybrid or online format to accommodate the schedules of working professionals.
Career Insights
This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.
Location & Format
Classes for this major are a combination of online and in-seat at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus and the Annis Water Resources Institute.
Format:Coursework
The program is a combination of coursework and an internship. Coursework reflects the cross-disciplinary nature of water resource issues and includes courses from Annis Water Resources Institute (AWRI), biology, resource management, and public administration. The degree requires a minimum of 33 credits.
Application Deadline
Please visit gvsu.edu/gradapply to submit application for fall. Admission during other semesters will be considered on a case by case basis. The $30 nonrefundable application fee is waived if the applicant has previously applied to Grand Valley State University.
Admission Requirements
For general requirements for graduate admission, visit Grand Valley State University’s admission section of the online catalog.
Admission into the water resource policy program has additional requirements, prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the graduate program director for more details.
If you have additional questions, please contact our graduate admissions office.
Helpful Links
For More Information
Robert B. Annis Water Resources Institute
gvsu.edu/wri
Lake Michigan
Center
Muskegon, MI
(616) 331-3749
gvsu.edu/biology
3300a
Kindschi Hall of Science
(616) 331-2470