Learn how to protect the Earth’s water in a swiftly changing climate

Water is a rapidly evolving field that encompasses many areas of study, research, and application. With increasing demand for sustainable water management and conservation due to pollution and climate change, professionals with expertise in water are needed across a range of industries. Water science requires experts who can adapt to changing technologies and theoretical developments in areas such as water treatment, conservation and hydrology.

You can explore the world of water science with UNE's undergraduate and postgraduate courses and specialisations. Our offerings are crafted to provide you with the expertise and capabilities essential to excel in a career in this swiftly changing field. Building on our rich legacy of preparing individuals for dynamic workplaces, our extensive curriculum includes hydrology, water conservation, marine ecology and more to ensure you have the knowledge and adaptability needed to succeed.

We understand that students have different needs, and that's why we offer the option of online or on-campus learning. Online students benefit from a community of experienced adults who can help them build strong nation-wide networks, while on-campus students can take advantage of convenient accommodation, support services and sports facilities. You can study on a full-time or part-time basis, with three trimesters per year.

UNE has a legacy of preparing adults for changeable workplaces, and will ensure you graduate ready to face the challenges and opportunities of this vital field. You will be well-equipped to step into a variety of industries including agriculture, engineering, environmental science and more. By choosing UNE, you’ll be studying with an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning. Year after year, students award us the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.

Explore the water study options offered at UNE now.

Why study with us?

Smiling Bachelor of Agriculture student Greg Kemmett stands on wooden stairwell at UNE Armidale

The most enjoyable part of my studies is the sense of achievement and being part of something bigger than myself.

Greg Kemmett

Find the right major or specialisation for your studies in Water

As concerns around water scarcity and sustainable resource management grow, graduates must be adaptable and innovative to succeed in the field of water science. Choose from our range of water offerings and gain the expertise needed to thrive in this rapidly-evolving field.

Why study with us?

5 stars
For Overall Experience and Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024
Australian Universities
No. 1
For Undergraduate Student Support
Good Universities Guide 2024
Public NSW Universities
No. 1
For Postgraduate Student Experience
QILT Student Experience Survey
NSW Universities

Careers in Water

As we face challenges such as water scarcity, pollution, and climate change, demand for professionals in water science and management continues to grow. At UNE you will develop the practical skills and advanced knowledge needed for a career in a variety of water-related industries.

  • Water resource manager
    Develop and manage strategies and processes to sustainably use and protect water resources.
  • Water quality analyst
    Monitor and analyse the quality of water resources to ensure they meet environmental, health, and safety standards.
  • Hydrologist
    Conduct research and collect data on the distribution, movement, and quality of water in the environment to manage water resources.
  • Water engineer
    Design, develop and implement water infrastructure systems, such as dams, pipelines and water treatment plants.
  • Water conservation officer
    Develop and implement water conservation programs to reduce usage and promote sustainable water practices.
  • Water policy analyst
    Analyse and develop water policies and regulations to ensure sustainable use and management of water resources.
  • Water ecologist
    Study the interaction between aquatic organisms and their environment and develop strategies to protect and restore aquatic ecosystems.
  • Water treatment specialist
    Design and operate water treatment systems to remove contaminants from water resources.

A five-star experience

2024 Overall Experience Good University Logo

Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience

Good Universities Guide 2007-2024
2024 Student Experience Good University Logo

No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience

QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience

QILT Student Experience Survey
2024 Teaching Quality Good University Logo

Five Stars for
Teaching Quality

UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality

Good Universities Guide 2024

What happens next?

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1. Decide on your course

Got any questions about a course you would like to study? Don’t hesitate to contact us, our Future Student team is standing by to help.

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2. Apply

2024 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!

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3. Receive an offer, enrol and start studying

Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.