School of Freshwater Sciences

Turn Science Into Action

Join us in tackling the world’s water and climate challenges

Passionate about making a difference for the environment?

Learn how to use science to address complex ecosystem and climate issues at the nation’s only school of freshwater sciences.

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, our school offers a unique opportunity to study complex freshwater ecosystems and resources, weather patterns and climate change. You’ll learn how to apply science toward 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. 

Atmospheric Science Programs Freshwater Sciences Programs
man working on boat

Spotlight Stories

  • 6 Freshwater Courses to Dive into This Fall
    As the spring semester winds down, it’s already time to start enrolling in fall classes! Looking to explore, experiment or expand your skills this fall? We’ve rounded up six standout Freshwater and Atmospheric Science courses to consider as you’re enrolling in classes in PAWS. Spoiler: you don’t have to be a Freshwater Sciences major to …
  • Capstone Students Support Restoration with LNRP
    UWM School of Freshwater Sciences undergrad students in the Capstone class, led by Dr. Ryan Newton, partnered with Lakeshore Natural Resource Partnership (LNRP) to support restoration work on the Valley Creek Corridor in Port Washington, WI. The students provided data which will help to prevent flooding and protect from infrastructure damage. The School of Freshwater …
  • Hands-on Experience Led to Being Hired Before Graduation
    Brenden Nihart, a graduate of UWM School of Freshwater Sciences shares his story of how hands-on experience, a career fair, and more helped land him his job at WaterTech of America.
Sandra McLellanNational Center of Excellence for Wastewater Surveillance
person points at forecast mapWeather and Climate Research
50+Years of Great Lakes Research

Interested in Hands-On Research?

Our scientists study everything from aquaculture to emerging contaminants, from ecosystem health to weather forecasting and climate change projections. The school’s unique location lets you explore a variety of water systems, including the Great Lakes and a confluence of three urban rivers. Plus our Atmospheric Science program is a leader in weather and climate research.

With access to state-of-the-art labs and equipment, a genomics center and research vessels, you will have opportunities to develop skills in the latest scientific techniques.

Learn more about the current opportunities for students to get involved in research.

Atmospheric Science Freshwater Sciences

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