Master of Hydrogeology

Groundwater is vital to the sustainability of society, especially in Australia. Hydrogeology deals with the distribution and flow of groundwater beneath Earth's surface and the interaction of groundwater with the atmosphere, biosphere and Earth's crust via chemical, physical and biological processes in groundwater systems. This course will develop your understanding of these complex and dynamic processes and the impacts of human activity and environmental change on groundwater systems. Topics such as groundwater flow systems, aquifer characterisation, contamination and remediation, numerical modelling and groundwater management are covered in the course and there is an opportunity to undertake a research project.

The Master of Hydrogeology has been developed in close collaboration with industry stakeholders to meet employers’ requirements. Many guest lecturers from industry contribute to the course, so you are learning not only from industry-experienced academics but also directly from industry leaders.

Please note, if you’re commencing your studies mid-year, completing the degree in three semesters is not possible.

1. Hydrogeology allows us to understand how the natural world works. Groundwater is a vital resource in Australia, particularly Western Australia, as well as many other parts of the world. Hydrogeology and groundwater resources are key factors in the sustainability of both our society and the environment
2. Studying hydrogeology trains us to think logically, critically and quantitatively. We learn to evaluate statements made in the scientific literature, as well as in non-science areas, based on evidence, not anecdotes. These skills are highly desired by employers in all employment sectors
3. Diverse career opportunities, not necessarily associated with the boom and bust cycle of the resources industry, also the opportunity to get some industry experience if you take the industry placement unit
4. You can get your master’s in one and a half years if you have the right background, otherwise it’s only two years
5. Studying hydrogeology is exciting, and becomes even more so when opportunities exist for novel and innovative research. As part of this course you can do a project that is considered sufficient preparation for entry into a PhD. There is nothing as thrilling as seeing your work extending our knowledge of the bigger hydrogeological picture