School of Freshwater Sciences

Turn Science Into Action.

Join us in tackling the world’s freshwater and climate challenges.

Want to protect Earth’s
natural resources?

Learn how to use science to address complex ecosystem and climate issues at the nation’s only School of Freshwater Sciences.

Located on the shore of the world’s largest freshwater ecosystem, in Milwaukee’s culturally rich Harbor District, our school offers a unique opportunity to study complex freshwater ecosystems, weather patterns and climate change. You’ll learn how to apply science and policy to address the environmental challenges our communities face. 

The School of Freshwater Sciences offers bachelor’s, master’s, accelerated master’s and doctoral degree programs in freshwater sciences and atmospheric science. Discover your path to making a difference. 

Our Academic Programs
Why Should You Choose a Freshwater Degree from a University in a Water-Centric City?

School of Freshwater Sciences Spotlight Stories

  • PhD Student Researches How Nanoparticles in Batteries Affect Aquatic Environments
    How will nanoparticles found in lithium batteries and electric vehicles affect the environment and aquatic species? Eric Ostovich, a PhD student in the Klaper Lab at the UW-Milwaukee School of Freshwater Sciences, is looking at potential environmental consequences that could take place if these particles aren't disposed of properly. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBe5w49UH4w
  • 2023 Summer Field Research in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
    Want to explore one of the most unique aquatic ecosystems in the world? Join the School of Freshwater Sciences' International Research Experience for Students. The program provides an opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students to enroll in a field research experience in the Southern Yucatán Peninsula at the Laguna Bacalar International Research Station on the … Read more
  • Microplastics pass through fish, but do they cause harm?
    By Laura Otto, UWM Report When Dong-Fang Deng and her students make feed for the fish they raise at UWM’s School of Freshwater Sciences, they often use ground fishmeal – dried fish parts from fisheries or wild catch – as the protein source. It’s possible to find microplastics in commercial fish food, she said, because … Read more
Sandra McLellanThe Sewage Sleuth
DaphinaMiniscule manmade materials with big environmental impacts
50+Years of Great Lakes Research

Interested in Hands-On Research?

Join our community of scientists who are studying everything from aquaculture to emerging contaminants and ecosystem health to weather forecasting and climate change projections. With access to state-of-the-art labs and equipment, a genomics center, a weather center and research vessels, you will have opportunities to develop skills in the latest scientific techniques.

The school’s unique location lets you explore a variety of water systems, including the Great Lakes and a confluence of three urban rivers.

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