Freshwater Studies students and Constanza Hazelwood with microscopes

Freshwater Studies

NMC’s Freshwater Studies program, offered through the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute, is the first associate degree in Freshwater Studies in the U.S. This science-based program has an interdisciplinary approach, and students can earn an Associate in Science and Arts Degree or an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Freshwater Studies.

Learn more about courses, faculty and staff, and internship opportunities.

Program Highlights

Partnership with WMU for the first BS in Freshwater Science and Sustainability in Traverse City »
Unique assets: RV Northwestern, Water Quality Analysis Laboratory, water quality sondes
Multiple University Center partnerships for additional bachelor's degrees
Collaboration with local and regional organizations
Partnerships with water-related industries
Local and global internships

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Explore Careers Related To This Program »

Articulation Agreements

Model Schedules

Program Course Guides

Program Requirements

Program Outcomes »

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GREAT LAKES WATER STUDIES INSTITUTE »

Environmental Employer Panel

Professionals in Environmental Science address job-related questions from students at Western Michigan University.

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Our Students Speak

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Create Your Career In Water

NMC offers multiple pathways to complete an ASA or AAS in Freshwater Studies. Inquire about our 1 + 1 hybrid Freshwater Studies Program. Complete your first year online and join us on campus for a second year of coursework by the Grand Traverse Bay.

View a model schedule here »

For more information, contact one of our advisors:

Cathy Jarvi , Freshwater Studies Program Advisor, cjarvi@nmc.edu, (231) 995-3333
Constanza Hazelwood PhD, Freshwater Studies Program Coordinator, chazelwood@nmc.edu, (231) 995-1722