How to become a hydrologist
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You can start by doing a degree in:
- environmental science
- geography
- civil engineering
- environmental engineering
- Earth sciences
- ecology
Postgraduate courses
After finishing your degree, you could then complete a postgraduate course. You can find out more about relevant postgraduate courses from the British Hydrological Society.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
More Information
Apprenticeship
You could do the Environmental Practitioner Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship before specialising in hydrology.
This typically takes 5 years to complete as a mix of learning on the job and studying at an approved university.
Entry requirements
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
More Information
Work
You could start as an assistant hydrologist if you have a degree in a science or environment subject.
Your employer may encourage you to take a postgraduate qualification, like a master's or PhD in hydrology, while you're working.
More Information
Career tips
The Centre for Ecology and Hydrology has information about hydrology, including work on water pollution, flooding and drought.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the British Hydrological Society or Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management.
This could help you find:
- industry news
- advice on professional development
- networking opportunities
Further information
You can learn about the different types of hydrologists by looking at the hydrology job profiles on the British Hydrological Society website.
You can also find out more about being a hydrologist from The Geological Society.