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. 

Requirements

At least 12 credits must be taken from courses listed 300 or above in residence at UWM. Students must maintain a GPA of 2.0 in minor courses attempted at UWM. In additional, students must attain a GPA of 2.0 in all minor courses attempted, including all transfer work. The minor consists of 18 credits in Freshwater Sciences.

Complete 6 credits from the following list:6
Elements of Water
The Water Environment
Life in Water
Water, Energy, Food, and Climate
Choose 12 credits from the following electives:12
Topics in Freshwater Sciences:
Exploration of Inland Seas
Ecology and Evolution of Freshwater Organisms
Sanitation and Sustainability
Water Pollution, Technology and Management
Introduction to Environmental Data Systems
Calculating Nature
Water and Natural Resource Economics
Water Law, Policy, and the Environment
Molecular Level Tools to Understand Larger Scale Change
Politics and Policy of Sustainability
Introduction to Sensing Networks
Economics, Policy and Management of Water
Cost-Benefit Analysis for Environmental Resource Decisions
Aquatic Ecosystem Services Valuation
Applied Water Statistics and Data Manipulation
Total Credits18