Video Description
A fast-paced montage showcases hands-on learning and research at the UWM School of Freshwater Sciences. Researchers and students work aboard a research vessel and in a laboratory, lowering equipment into the water, examining sediment core samples and studying fish in laboratory tanks. A weather balloon floats overhead, a scuba diver swims underwater, students swim in a lagoon, and the research vessel travels across the water and enters a harbor.
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. Discover your path to making a difference.
Freshwater Journeys
Jena
Freshwater Sciences major, Aquatic Science track
“UWM has taught me to build more confidence in myself, what my abilities are and really understand what I want to do in the future.”
Clay
Freshwater Sciences major, Water Policy track
“I really enjoy the hands-on elements of the School of Freshwater Sciences. With my senior capstone, I got to do sampling in Port Washington.”
Antoni
Freshwater Sciences major, Aquatic Science track
“UWM helped me find myself. I’m not the person I was when I came in, freshly 18. I was super lucky that I happened to go to the university that offered the perfect program for me.”
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.
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.
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- Nov9November 9, 2026, 3:30pm - 4:20pm
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- Nov19November 19, 2026, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
