Although there is plenty of water on Earth, it is rarely at the desired place at the right time. Freshwater is a valuable, but limited resource, making up less than 3% of global water. Access to clean water is an increasing global problem. Knowledge of hydrology and glaciology is of vital importance for both the sustainable use and protection of our water resources.
This programme option addresses the science of water broadly; covering hydrology, glaciology, and snow science, which, especially at high altitudes and latitudes, are closely linked to each other. The focus is on quantifying the water cycle, the occurrence and flow of water in the earth system, and the interaction therein.
Key topics in hydrology are understanding and modelling of processes such as precipitation, evaporation, flow in rivers and underground (soil- and groundwater), as well understanding more about extreme events such as flooding and droughts. At northern latitudes, glaciology and cryospheric processes are integral to the water cycle. The study of the cryosphere, snow and glaciers, is called glaciology. Here, important topics are mass balance and dynamics of these frozen systems.
We use observations, field studies, and mathematics. Both statistical and numerical modelling of physical processes is important skills you will gain.
For national and global water issues, knowledge of hydrology and glaciology is of significant value. The quantitative and data-centric tools you gain as a hydrologist or glaciologist provide several career pathways. Scientific research, renewable energy and hydropower planning, water resources management, public administration, and consulting are just a few of the exciting options to pursue.