Programs & Partners

With an associate's degree in Freshwater Studies, graduates can continue in a bachelor's degree program or enter directly into industry jobs. More »

Careers & Internships

Freshwater Studies combines unique courses and field experiences leading toward multiple career pathways in water resources. More »

Research & Outreach

Freshwater Studies has many research projects already in place as well as ties to many local and regional events and organizations. More »

Create Your Career In Water »

The Freshwater Studies program's new brochure describes career options, program highlights, and what our grads are doing. Check it out!

New Marine Technology Cohort »

Marine Technicians design, operate and repair equipment key to exploring, developing, and sustaining the marine environment. This rapidly growing career field has opportunities across the globe while allowing you to work in a number of different marine-related fields and industries. NMC's newest program, the Marine Technology Cohort, not only prepares you to work in these many different industries, it does so in an accelerated format allowing you to complete your degree much faster and get into the workforce quicker.

Great Lakes Water Studies Institute

Located at the Great Lakes Campus on Grand Traverse Bay, the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute (GLWSI) at Northwestern Michigan College is strategically positioned to engage individuals and organizations, both locally and globally, in advancing skills, knowledge and understanding of the world’s dynamic water resources.

What We Offer

The first associate degree in Freshwater Studies in the U.S.
Multiple career pathways including bachelor degree programs
Innovative education, internships and research opportunities
Collaboration with industry, government, universities and community
Unique assets: R/V Northwestern, ROV, hydrographic sonar, water research laboratory

Transition seamlessly from ASA to BS

NMC has collaborated with Western Michigan University to offer a BS in Freshwater Science and Sustainability degree in Traverse City. Program highlights: