Water is critical for every society, as it sustains populations and flows through the landscape that supports the environment. Our students are encouraged to make links between their interest in water resources and the other concentrations in the Department of Geography.

The Water Resources concentration examines all aspects of water resources including occurrence, use, management, and conservation in the United States and around the world. This concentration examines the environmental, economic, and social implications of floods, droughts, dams, transboundary water disputes, the water/food/energy nexus, water security, and water usage as well as current and future issues in water quality, water pollution, and water resource regulation.

Our students develop a strong background in the physical and social aspects of water resources. They are able to make theoretically and empirically grounded recommendations for crafting regional water security and water sustainability policy using a physical and social science background. Additionally, they can link water security to food security and energy security.