Degrees > University of Guelph

Bachelor of Engineering - Water Resource Engineering

Water Resources Engineering combines elements of other disciplines such as: Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Planning and Geography in a unique combination ideally suited to addresses society's concerns and needs surrounding water. Specific topic areas include:

• Hydrology
• Environmental Science
• Meteorology
• Geology
• Conservation
• Resource Management

A growing population and the need for clean water demands Water Resources engineers strive to develop solutions that are environmentally sustainable and economically viable. Guelph's Water Resources Engineering program focuses on the use and management of land and water resources in rural and urban watersheds. Students learn to apply engineering analysis and computer models to identify water resources problems and design engineering solutions to these challenges.

Typical applications include source water protection, nutrient management, ecosystem restoration, dam operation, design of water distribution systems, design of urban storm water systems, flood and drought forecasting and planning, soil and water conservation including irrigation, drainage and prevention of soil erosion, preparing for the effects of climate change, and international water resources development.

Careers

Some careers pursued by graduates of the Water Resources Engineering program include:

• President, Greenland International Consultant, an Ontario-based firm involved in all aspects of water resources management.
• Project Engineer in the Watershed Planning Department at Ontario Power Generation, planning and developing hydro-electric power generation projects.
• High school teacher, Lakefield College School, teaching math and science.
• Senior Water Quality Engineer at the Grand River Conservation Authority, a leading agency responsible for all aspects of water management in the Grand River basin.
• Director, Safe Drinking Water Branch, Ontario Ministry of Environment, an agency responsible for protecting drinking water sources through out Ontario.
• Project Engineer at International Development Agencies working on water development projects throughout Africa