Water Management for Climate Adaptation

Do you want to contribute to a climate proof society through sustainable water management? The two-year Water Management for Climate Adaptation Master’s programme will give you an in-depth understanding of the relevant natural processes and the state of the art of water management. You will gain an understanding of water’s role with regard to humanity and nature through inter- and transdisciplinary action based research.

State of the Art of Water Management

The Water Management for Climate adaptation programme aims to equip the water professionals of the future with knowledge of the relevant natural processes and state of the art of water management, concerning the availability, quality and safety of water. Climate change can lead to water shortage or excess, and affect the quality of water with devastating effects on the populations and ecosystems. Adaptation to the effects of climate change is possible through water management.

The water professionals of the future also must be able to navigate through decision making structures at the global, regional and local levels to be able to effectively implement plans in water management. The Water Management for Climate Adaptation master's programme will give you insights into the implementation and governance of water measures, according to the legislative frameworks that are in place. Find out more about the study programme by clicking the link below.

Living Lab

The Water Science for Climate Adaptation master's programme features a living lab component, where students are able to apply what they have learned about natural processes in the context of water management and the governance of water measures. The living lab will take place in the Delta Climate Center located in Zeeland, the Netherlands, which has a wealth of knowledge accumulated from many years of practice in water management and engineering. In this living lab, you will have the opportunity to carry out action based research at the Delta Climate Center involving relevant local stakeholders.

This programme has brought me to better understand how we can face the challenges of the future in water from a technical and a managerial perspective.

Admission requirements

The Water Management for Climate Adaptation Master’s Programme is a selective programme which looks for motivated students with a background in natural sciences who are eager to make an impact on society and contribute to climate adaptation in their careers.

Why in Study Water Management for Climate Adaptation at Utrecht University

Studying Water Management for Climate Adaptation at Utrecht University has several advantages and benefits.

• This Master’s programme is offered by the Faculty of Geosciences, the only Geosciences faculty existing in the Netherlands.
• The programme is closely affiliated with the Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, recognized internationally as a leader in sustainability research.
• The university’s extensive international network will make a wide range of research projects available to you and takes you right into the heart of scientific practice.
• You will gain exposure to a wide spectrum of disciplines within the earth sciences and environmental sciences. The programme has a strong inter- and transdisciplinary character, and the focus is on developing system knowledge and understanding. 
• By carrying out fieldwork at the Delta Climate Center you will gain first hand experience in working in the field.
• Utrecht University's research topics are part of a larger research effort to find innovative, sustainable solutions to the threats and opportunities posed by climate change. This results in relevant research and career opportunities.
• There are many water sector companies and organisations in the Utrecht region, including DHV, Grontmij, ARCADIS, CSO, Deltares, and KWR. Utrecht University’s strong relationships with these organisations create opportunities for research and other projects and internships.