From the start, you’ll do more than get your feet wet. Our freshwater sciences undergraduates experience:

• Small class sizes taught by leaders in freshwater sciences.
• Access to state-of-the-art labs and equipment, a genomics center and research vessels that provide opportunities to develop skills in the latest scientific techniques.
• The ability to explore a variety of water systems, including the Great Lakes and a confluence of three urban rivers.
• Interdisciplinary curriculum with specialized tracks that can be tailored to your interests.
• UW-Milwaukee is a member of the , a partnership that provides students with opportunities for water-related coursework, hands-on experiences, internships, and research opportunities at campuses throughout the Universities of Wisconsin system.

Thinking of a career in freshwater or marine science?

Join us for an information session! This is your opportunity to dig a little deeper into your academic interests.

Freshwater scientists focus on the scientifically sound management of natural and constructed water systems, ensuring equitable and productive use while sustaining biodiversity and freshwater availability. By combining expertise in water resources, social systems, and technology, they develop solutions to the challenges facing freshwater ecosystems through conservation practices and sustainable management strategies.

Freshwater and marine systems are deeply interconnected, making freshwater sciences an essential foundation for those interested in marine science or oceanography. Rivers, lakes, and groundwater feed the oceans, influencing coastal pollution, nutrient cycles, and ecosystem health. Climate change affects both freshwater and marine environments, highlighting the need to study water systems from their sources to their broader environmental impacts in order to fully understand global water dynamics.

At the nation’s only School of Freshwater Sciences, students gain a comprehensive education in freshwater ecosystems, human and environmental health, aquatic research, and climate science, while learning to apply science to shape policy and drive real-world solutions. Understanding the interconnections within water systems—from rivers and lakes to groundwater—is crucial for managing both freshwater resources and their broader environmental impacts.

Students choose from two specialized tracks:

• Aquatic Science Track
  This track focuses on the science behind aquatic systems, exploring the biology, chemistry, and physics that shape freshwater environments. Students have the chance to take courses in fish health and management, aquatic ecology, limnology, hydrology, and water quality monitoring, all while learning about the health of ecosystems, biodiversity, and how humans impact freshwater systems. 
• Water Policy Track
  This track explores water management through economics, law, and policy. Students learn how water resources are managed, study environmental law, and understand the role of public policy and sustainability in protecting water. Courses cover topics such as environmental issues, analysis, and the economics of water use, equipping students with the skills to influence the future of water policy.

Freshwater scientists provide scientifically sound management of natural and constructed water systems for productive and equitable use while sustaining natural biota, diversity and freshwater availability. They also generate solutions to the problems facing freshwater through a complete understanding of water resources, the social systems in which they operate, and the application of technology, conservation, and sustainable management practices.

Studies in Freshwater Sciences will help students prepare for careers in ecological and environmental sciences, natural resources, technology, policy, and business relevant to freshwater systems and resources. A minor in Freshwater Sciences also prepares students for professional careers in business and industry, government, non-profit organizations, as well as graduate studies in freshwater and environmental sciences. 

This program is offered as part of an accelerated graduate program. This fast-track program enables high-achieving students to begin their mater’s degree in their senior year of the freshwater sciences program. Up to 21 credits can be applied toward both a bachelor’s degree and a graduate degree. The five-year program consists of 3.5 years in undergraduate status and 1.5 years in graduate status.

Undergraduate Requirements 

1. Students interested in this opportunity should meet with their undergraduate academic advisor during the fall semester of their junior year to assess their eligibility. To qualify:

   • students must be enrolled in the Freshwater Sciences, BS program and maintain a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75. 
   • students must be in progress to complete 105 bachelor’s credits prior to their first term as a graduate student (which corresponds to the spring term of their senior year). 

2. Eligible students should then meet with the graduate program manager and submit their application for the fall term of the following year (which corresponds to the fall term of their senior year). They can apply to either the Freshwater Sciences, MS: Aquatic Science (Professional) or Freshwater Sciences, MS: Water Policy (Professional) program. The application must be submitted before the end of the spring semester of their junior year. 
3. If admitted to the master’s program, students will collaborate with their undergraduate advisor to enroll in two graduate-level courses (six credits) during the fall semester of their senior year. Important: To receive credit for these courses, students must earn a grade of “B” or better. 

Graduate Requirements 

1. To be considered for admission into the Graduate School prior to completing their bachelor’s degree, students must meet the minimum criteria for admission set by the Freshwater Sciences, MS: Aquatic Science (Professional) or Freshwater Sciences, MS: Water Policy (Professional) programs, as well as the 51���� Graduate School. The application must be submitted before the end of the spring semester of their junior year for admission to the fall term of the following year (which corresponds to the fall term of their senior year). 
2. Students must also be on track to complete 105 bachelor’s credits before their first term as a graduate student. 
3. Once admitted, students will be considered graduate students and will pay graduate tuition starting in the spring semester of their senior year and continuing throughout their graduate program. 

Students who do not satisfactorily meet graduate school admissions criteria may continue with their Freshwater Sciences, BS degree. 

Aquatic Science (Professional)

Water is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the global economy. Employers are looking for professionals who understand freshwater ecosystems and the challenges facing them. Through our MS Professional program, we are empowering students with the knowledge, skills, and experience to meet this critical demand.

The Aquatic Science Track focuses on the structure and function of freshwater ecosystems and the impacts of climate change, pollution, and invasive species on those ecosystems. Through hands-on fieldwork, lab training, and an internship, students gain practical experience in areas like fish health and management, water quality monitoring, ecosystem analysis, and environmental health. This immersive approach equips students with the skills needed to address real-world challenges in freshwater systems. Students in the professional program are not supported by assistantships.

MS Professional students prepare for a freshwater career through rigorous coursework and a 480-hour internship with a water-related organization. This combination of academic and real-world training provides our students with a competitive edge in the job market. Professional students leave the program ready to use their training in a wide variety of career paths.

Internship Requirement

The MS Professional program requires the completion of a 480-hour internship with a water-related organization of the student’s choice. Internship experiences focus on complex regional, national, and global water problems and often involve authentic, practical problems in the field.

Funding

MS Professional Students are responsible for the costs of tuition and student fees. Financial aid and scholarships are available to help cover these costs.

Application Deadlines, Admission Information, and Program Requirements are available in the 51���� Catalog.

Aquatic Science (Thesis)

Freshwater ecosystems face unprecedented challenges. To meet hose challenges, we need scientists who can enhance our understanding of these ecosystems and contribute to real-world solutions. Through our MS Thesis program, we are training the next generation of freshwater scientists to do just that.

MS Thesis students design and carry out original research under the guidance of a faculty advisor. In doing so, students learn the fundamentals of research and collaborate with the School of Freshwater Sciences’ world-class faculty and scientists. Our MS Thesis students expand the overall understanding of complex freshwater ecosystems, develop innovative technologies and help shape sustainable water policies.

The Aquatic Science Track is for students interested in research, water ecology, and developing innovative solutions. The thesis track provides an interdisciplinary, research-focused education. Students work closely with faculty to conduct original research, develop new technologies, and contribute to advancing freshwater science.

Thesis Requirement

The MS Thesis program requires the completion of thesis research conducted with oversight from the student’s advisory committee. Thesis research is expected to be of a caliber sufficient for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. Satisfactory completion of the thesis, including successful defense, is required for graduation.

Funding

Thesis students require the support of a research assistantship, which provides tuition remission, a monthly stipend, and health insurance. Research assistantships are funded through project grants obtained by individual faculty members; availability varies. Before applying to the MS Thesis program, prospective students are strongly encouraged to contact faculty members they are interested in working with.

Application Deadlines, Admission Information, and Program Requirements are available in the 51���� Catalog.

Water Policy (Professional)

Water is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the global economy. Employers are looking for professionals who understand freshwater ecosystems and the challenges facing them. Through our MS Professional program, we are empowering students with the knowledge, skills, and experience to meet this critical demand.

The Water Policy Track equips students with the skills needed to work in policy consulting and environmental management. Students gain real-world experience through a practicum in water policy and an internship. Students in the professional program are not supported by assistantships.

MS Professional students prepare for a freshwater career through rigorous coursework and a 480-hour internship with a water-related organization. This combination of academic and real-world training provides our students with a competitive edge in the job market. Professional students leave the program ready to use their training in a wide variety of career paths.

Internship Requirement

The MS Professional program requires the completion of a 480-hour internship with a water-related organization of the student’s choice. Internship experiences focus on complex regional, national, and global water problems and often involve authentic, practical problems in the field.

Funding

MS Professional Students are responsible for the costs of tuition and student fees. Financial aid and scholarships are available to help cover these costs.

Application Deadlines, Admission Information, and Program Requirements are available in the 51���� Catalog.

Water Policy (Thesis)

Freshwater ecosystems face unprecedented challenges. To meet hose challenges, we need scientists who can enhance our understanding of these ecosystems and contribute to real-world solutions. Through our MS Thesis program, we are training the next generation of freshwater scientists to do just that.

MS Thesis students design and carry out original research under the guidance of a faculty advisor. In doing so, students learn the fundamentals of research and collaborate with the School of Freshwater Sciences’ world-class faculty and scientists. Our MS Thesis students expand the overall understanding of complex freshwater ecosystems, develop innovative technologies and help shape sustainable water policies.

The Water Policy Track is for those interested in water economics and policy, the thesis track offers an interdisciplinary approach, preparing students for careers in research, industry, or further PhD studies. Students will work with experts to conduct original research and develop impactful water policies.

Thesis Requirement

The MS Thesis program requires the completion of thesis research conducted with oversight from the student’s advisory committee. Thesis research is expected to be of a caliber sufficient for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. Satisfactory completion of the thesis, including successful defense, is required for graduation.

Funding

Thesis students require the support of a research assistantship, which provides tuition remission, a monthly stipend, and health insurance. Research assistantships are funded through project grants obtained by individual faculty members; availability varies. Before applying to the MS Thesis program, prospective students are strongly encouraged to contact faculty members they are interested in working with.

Application Deadlines, Admission Information, and Program Requirements are available in the 51���� Catalog.

Science That Solves Freshwater Challenges

We’re preparing the next generation of scientists, researchers and policymakers who are committed to exploring, protecting and preserving one of our most vital natural resources. While earning your freshwater sciences doctoral degree, you will:

• Explore natural and human-created freshwater systems.
• Learn from world-class faculty within a small-class environment.
• Build a multidisciplinary science foundation.
• Gain research experience working in a scientific lab.
• Receive mentorship from a leading freshwater researcher.

Students in the freshwater sciences PhD program must be accepted by a faculty member who will serve as the major professor and be primarily responsible for matriculation.

The School of Freshwater Sciences admits new thesis students for fall and spring semesters.

• Fall applications are due January 31
• Spring applications are due October 1

You must meet Graduate School requirements in addition to the following to be considered for admission:

Students must earn 54 credits beyond the bachelor’s degree, of which 24 credits may be taken from formal coursework completed as part of a master’s degree. A minimum of 27 credits must be earned in residence at 51����. Students may take up to a maximum of 6 credits of independent study counting toward the degree.

Doctoral students are typically funded through faculty research projects. We strongly recommend you reach out to faculty members whose interests align with your own to discuss potential research and funding opportunities. Current research assistantship opportunities.

The School of Freshwater Sciences also offers competitive assistantships and scholarships. For more information about other financial aid options, please visit 51���� Financial Aid.

Every one (100%) of our PhD candidates have gone into water-related jobs after graduation. A number of PhD candidates at the School of Freshwater Sciences have been chosen for the prestigious Sea Grant Knauss Fellowship Program, which provides a unique educational and professional experience to graduate students who have an interest in ocean, coastal and Great Lakes resources and in the national policy decisions affecting those resources. 

Others have secured positions at Duke University, the University of Colorado, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, and working for natural resourced departments in several states.