Students
who plan to become hydrologists need a strong emphasis in mathematics,
statistics, geology, physics, computer sciences, chemistry and biology. In
addition, sufficient background in other subjects - economics, public
finance, environmental law, government policy - is needed to communicate
with experts in these fields and to understand the implications of their
work on hydrology.
Communicating clearly in writing and speech is a basic requirement essential for any professional person. Hydrologists should be able to work well with people, not only as part of a team with other scientists and engineers, but also in public relations, whether it be advising governmental leaders or informing the general public on water issues.
Hydrologists work for private businesses including:
- Industries that develop the use large quantities of water
- Industries that have their own waste management programs
- Water-well drilling and testing companies
- Resource development firm such as oil and gas companies
- Electric power utilities
- Large developer firms
- Consulting firms
- Analytical laboratories specializing in water chemistry
- Nonprofit research organizations
- Self-employment
- Army Corps of Engineers
- Bureau of Mines
- Bureau od Land Management
- Bureau of Reclamation
- Environmental Protection Agency
- Forest Service
- Geological Survey
- Peace Corps
- Soil Conservation Service
- Public health
- Water and sewage management
- Highway and land drainage
- Fish and wildlife
- Irrigation districts
- Environmental protection
- Conservation districts
- Colleges and universities
Information provided by: http://www.uwin.siu.edu