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Northwestern Michigan College Revised 6/22/09

NMC Water Studies Institute

The NMC Water Studies Institute announces the Fresh Water Studies Program

NMC's Fresh Water Studies Program is truly one-of-a-kind. Beginning with the 2009 fall semester, students enrolled in this program are able to earn an Associate in Science and Arts Degree for Fresh Water Studies -- the only one in the United States.

Reflecting rapidly emerging career paths, you will have a choice of three general streams: science and technology, global freshwater policy and sustainability, or economy and society.

The Freshwater Studies degree builds on existing courses such as watershed science and oceanography. Your coursework also will include an introduction to water studies, introduction to GIS (Geographic Information Systems), a field experience and internships.

This science-based program has an interdisciplinary approach designed to offer students flexibility and a variety of opportunities that are especially critical in these challenging economic times. The degree is intended both for students who plan to enter the professional arena as well as those who wish to further their studies at a four-year school.

NMC's Water Studies Institute is located in our Great Lakes Campus on West Grand Traverse Bay. It has an on-site water analysis laboratory and will utilize the T/S Northwestern as a floating classroom for exploration of the Grand Traverse Bay. The Institute has also been collaborating with NMC's Aviation program to collect water samples on inland lakes using NMC's float plane.

Students in this program will also have access to:

  • Research initiatives with University and community partners including the Grand Traverse Bay hydrographic survey project and Grand Traverse Bay Observing System
  • Remote investigations with underwater vehicles
  • Fieldwork opportunities overseas
  • Internships

*** Fresh Water Studies Catalog Requirements ***

*** Sample Schedules [.pdf] ***

Hans W. Van Sumeren, Director hvansumeren@nmc.edu 231.995.1793
Constanza C. Hazelwood, Ph.D. chazelwood@nmc.edu 231.995.1722

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Boardman River Dams Project Web Site: theboardman.org

Great Lakes Information NetworkA Great Lakes Information Network partner