Abstract
A handful of universities with exceptionally strong programs in water resources currently offer multi-disciplinary Masters degrees in water resources management for mid-career professionals. The degree programs differ in several respects, but each is based upon a model curriculum developed by a joint committee of the US Army Corps of Engineers and UCOWR. These programs allow a water professional to complete a degree with only one semester in residence. A work-related project is performed in lieu of a thesis. Unanticipated budgetary constraints and new missions have resulted in the Army Corps sending far fewer students than expected into the program. The University of Arizona responded to this challenge by seeking students from other federal, state, and local agencies, as well as consulting firms. Other participating universities have adopted different strategies. The overall degree program has proven sound, and there clearly is a need for this type of program beyond the Army Corps. This talk will cover lessons learned, and discuss strategies for broadening the program’s base of students, including possible roles of UCOWR, AWRA, and other organizations.
Comments
Abstracts of presentations given on Tuesday, 18 July 2006, in session 10 of the UCOWR Conference.