One amongst the natural resources and the most important amid them is water. Life on earth cannot be possible without water. Animals and men alike will perish within no time due to thirst. Hydrology has today evolved into a complex science that involves the cleansing and analysis of water resources. It also understands our planets complex water system and helps solve many issues arising in different stages. More details on this field and its career opportunities are given below.

Responsibilities of hydrologists

The responsibilities of hydrologists include:

• They apply scientific knowledge as well as the concepts of mathematics to find out solutions to social issues that are water related.
• They also determine the problems of quantity, availability of water resources and its quality.
• It is also their concern to find water supplies for irrigating farms or controlling soil erosion or flood.
• One of the other jobs of hydrologists comprise of environmental protection. They prevent pollution and try to find safe sites to dispose hazardous wastes.

Personal Skills

Hydrologists must have the ability to collect, analyze and understand data. They should also have good computer knowledge and have the ability to understand advanced concepts of mathematics. In addition to these, aspirants need to have the skill to effectively communicate their idea – in writing and verbally.

Qualification needed

The qualification required by an individual to join any research institute or corporate firm is a Master’s level degree in the relevant field. Those who have finished their bachelor’s degree can join the entry level jobs, but a PG degree will ensure that they get much better job opportunities. For those who intend to go for teaching or research, a PhD degree will be very much beneficial.

Institutions in India That Offer These Courses

• Andhra University - Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
• Anna University - Chennai, Tamil Nadu
• College of Science & Technology - Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
• H.D. College of Education, Jhajjar
• Indian Institute of Technology - Guwahati, Assam
• Indian Institute of Technology - Roorkee, Uttaranchal
• P.V.P. Polytechnic, Bangalore
• Patna University - Patan, Gujarat
• Radhakrishna Education Trusts Dr. B.R. Ambedkar B.P.Ed College
• Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey Women - Pune, Maharashtra
• Veer Narmad South Gujarat University - Surat, Gujarat

Career Opportunities in Hydrology

There are numerous career opportunities available for hydrologists within our country. Job opportunities are also available for them abroad. Numerous research institutions in addition to oil and gas industries take in students of hydrology. Those who have a master’s degree in the subject will get much better career opportunities. One other job option available for hydrologists is to work in the fields of education. Those who have a NET or PhD can get employed as Lecturers or Assistant professors with institutions that teach hydrology and geosciences. The remuneration of this field is high too. Postgraduates of this field will get a salary of around Rs. 14, 000/- to Rs. 18, 000/- each month. Because of the vast career opportunities that are available for students of hydrology, this field is definitely worth considering.