Bachelor of Science (Hydrology major)
Overview
Bachelor of Science – Hydrology is offered from the Pietermaritzburg Campus. The Hydrology major covers the occurrence, distribution, movement, and properties of water on Earth, as well as applying scientific principles to solve water-related problems, including managing water resources, mitigating natural disasters, and ensuring water quality.
Entry Requirements
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) – Degree (Pass).
- APS score of no fewer than 28 points.
- Mathematics at Level 4 and Physical Science, Life Science or Agricultural Science at Level 4.
Modules
Semester 1
- General Principles of Chemistry – CHEM110 (16 Credits)
- Mathematics for Natural Sciences – MATH150 (16 Credits)
- Intro Physics for Life Sciences & Agriculture – PHYS131 (16 Credits)
16 credits from second major or from:
- Introduction to Statistics – STAT130 (16 Credits)
- The Smaller Side of Life – BIOL101 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
Semester 2
- Environmental Systems – ENVS120 (16 Credits)
48 credits from second major or from:
- Life on Earth – BIOL102 (16 Credits)
- Computing for Natural Scientists – COMP106 (16 Credits)
- Chemical Reactivity – CHEM120 (16 Credits)
- Further Mathematics for Natural Sciences & Modern Physics for Life Sciences & Agric – MATH143 & PHYS133 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
Semester 1
- Introduction to Physical Hydrology – HYDR210 (16 Credits)
No fewer than 48 credits must be from level 2 modules and remaining 32 credits from level 1 or 2 electives. Recommended level 2 electives are:
- Agrometeorology & Environmental Biophysics – AMET210 (16 Credits)
- Introduction to Soils & the Environment – SSCI217 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
Semester 2
- Environmental Aspects of Hydrology – HYDR220 (16 Credits)
- Geographic Information Systems – ENVS211 (16 Credits)
No fewer than 48 credits must be from level 2 modules and remaining 32 credits from level 1 or 2 electives. Recommended level 2 electives are:
- Environmental Instruments: Life/Earth Sciences – AMET212 (16 Credits)
- Pedology – SSCI230 (16 Credits)
- Soil Biology and Biochemistry – SSCI260 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
Semester 1
- Modelling for Hydrological Design – HYDR310 (16 Credits)
- Irrigation Design & Management – AGPS301 (16 Credits)
Level 3 electives from second major (32 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
Semester 2
- Environmental Water Quality – HYDR322 (8 Credits)
- Water Resources Policy, Laws and Institutions – HYDR330 (8 Credits)
- Applied Hydrology – HYDR324 (16 Credits)
Level 3 electives from second major (32 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
What do they actually do?
Hydrology is the science of the water cycle. It studies the complex water systems of
the planet, the occurrence, distribution, movement, quality and properties of the
waters of the Earth and their relationship with and within the environment. The objective of hydrological studies is to produce information for rational decisions in planning, design and operations of water resources development.
Hydrologists seek appropriate solutions to global water issues, backed by sound scientific knowledge and mathematical principles. They are concerned with water quality and quantity, erosion, water demand and supply management, water pollution remediation, restoration of landscapes, the impact of water on people and vice versa, aspects of ground and surface-water, waste disposal, water levels and evapotranspiration.
Hydrologists work closely with soil scientists, engineers, environmental scientists,
geologists, grassland scientists and GIS specialists to model and predict floods and
drought, conduct assessments, provide advice, develop management plans, restore water sources and landscapes, ensure supply and calculate water storage needs.
Areas of Employment
• National/Provincial Department of
Water and Sanitation
• Municipalities
• Universities
• SA National Space Agency
• SA Weather Services
• Utilities and Water Boards
• Consulting: Engineering and
Environmental Science
• Agricultural and Water Research
Councils
• Food and Agricultural Organisations
• UNESCO IHE and the International
Water Management Institute (IWMI)
Apply today and take the next step toward your future.