
The Environmental Management master’s program with a concentration in Water Resources Management at University of Duke offers a comprehensive two-year curriculum focused on sustainable water resource management, environmental policy and ecological conservation. Students develop advanced knowledge in hydrology, water systems, policy frameworks and environmental risk assessment. The program emphasizes applied research, data analysis and strategic planning, preparing learners to manage water-related projects, develop sustainable solutions and influence policy decisions. Its structured design ensures students acquire both theoretical understanding and practical expertise in water resource management and environmental sustainability.
Participants benefit from access to research laboratories, fieldwork opportunities and faculty mentorship. The curriculum emphasizes hydrology analysis, water management, policy evaluation and sustainability strategies, enabling students to assess water systems and implement effective management plans. Through case studies, applied research and collaborative projects, learners strengthen analytical, problem-solving and technical skills, equipping them to address complex water and environmental challenges in professional or research-focused careers.
Semester 1 – Foundations in Environmental and Water Resource Management
• Principles of Hydrology and Water Systems
• Environmental Policy and Governance
• Quantitative Methods in Environmental Analysis
• Seminar in Water Resource Challenges
Semester 2 – Applied Hydrology & Policy Analysis
• Water Quality and Resource Assessment
• Environmental Risk and Sustainability Strategies
• Fieldwork and Data Collection
• Applied Research Project
Semester 3 – Advanced Water Management & Specialization
• Integrated Water Resource Management
• Advanced Hydrological Modeling
• Elective in Specialized Environmental Topic
• Project-Based Applied Research
Semester 4 – Capstone & Thesis Integration
• Independent Research / Master’s Thesis
• Policy Evaluation in Water Management
• Seminar: Applied Water Resource Solutions
• Professional Portfolio Development
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles in water management, environmental consulting, policy development and sustainable resource planning. Common career paths include water resource manager, environmental consultant, policy analyst and hydrology specialist. Additional opportunities exist in government agencies, non-profits, environmental consulting firms, water utilities, and international organizations. The program also provides a strong foundation for students pursuing doctoral studies in environmental science, hydrology or water resource management. By combining rigorous coursework with applied research, graduates are equipped to develop sustainable solutions and guide water resource initiatives effectively.
This two-year master’s program is ideal for students seeking a comprehensive and applied approach to environmental and water resource management. The curriculum emphasizes hydrology analysis, water management, policy evaluation and applied research, enabling learners to address real-world water challenges. Students engage in fieldwork, applied projects and faculty mentorship that strengthen analytical, technical and problem-solving skills. The program’s structured design ensures graduates are prepared for careers in environmental management, water resources, policy planning or doctoral study. For those aiming to contribute to sustainable water solutions and environmental policy, this program provides a focused and highly practical pathway.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 (919) 684-8111
Email: admissions@duke.edu
Address: University of Duke, Durham, North Carolina, United States