Hydrology is the study of water on Earth. This discipline of the Earth Sciences focuses on the hydrologic cycle, watersheds, stream flow, flooding, and groundwater. Students of hydrology investigate the impacts of population growth, urbanization, weather, and climate upon these dynamic hydrologic processes and upon water resource sustainability.
The COD Earth Sciences Program is cutting edge in providing a fundamental hydrology course that meets the general education needs for non-science and science majors. Students enrolled in the Hydrosciences courses (Hydrology and Oceanography), have the opportunity to work in a lab equipped with stream tables, bench-scale aquifer models, and a functioning beach wave tank – facilities unmatched in community colleges.
“The prosperity of the greater Chicago region and its status as a global center depend on water availability. Historically blessed with ample fresh water, the region can no longer assume that water supplies are infinite. While other parts of the country struggle to meet growing water demand and some cities are losing their economic competitiveness due to shortage or inadequate planning, the Chicago region must act now to carefully plan and manage its surface and groundwater resources in a coordinated fashion. Nothing less than economic development, environmental protection, and social equity are at stake. And it is for these reasons that the region’s first water supply plan is timely and important.”
Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning, Northeastern Illinois Regional Water Supply Supply/Demand Plan Looking Out to 2050
Program Requirements
Please consult a faculty member listed below before beginning your coursework.
Degree
- Associate in Science
- Student Planning Worksheet: Use When planning your coursework.
- Course Descriptions
Earth 1135 Water Science - Fundamentals of Hydrology
Field trip to Mainstream Pumping Station, MWRDGC Deep Tunnel, Spring 2011
Sign up for Earth Science 1135 to fulfill your General Education Physical Science lab course requirement. This course is relevant if you use water or would defend our water resources.
An introduction to the water cycle, the dynamic processes of surface water, and ground water. Students investigate and analyze the impacts of population growth, urbanization, weather, and climate upon hydrological processes and water resource sustainability. One field trip is required. For any student concerned about water resources and those with intended majors in geology, hydrology, meteorology, environmental sciences/engineering, or resource management.
Math 0481 with a grade of C or better, or a qualifying score on the Math Placement Exam *
*Concerned that your math skills won’t measure up or that this course is too math demanding? Contact Diana Strode to learn more about the course objectives and expectations. Don’t miss a great lab and field experience because you misunderstand the prerequisite!
Career Information
Meet with Diana Strode, Assistant Professor of Earth Sciences to explore the opportunities and to plan your course of study.
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook
O-NET Online, American Job Center Network
Hydrology Websites
- Illinois State Water Survey
- United States Geological Survey - Illinois Water Science Center
- National Weather Service River Forecast
- Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning - Water Resources Planning
Professional Organizations
- Illinois Association for Floodplain and Stormwater Management
- American Institute of Hydrology
- University Council on Water Resources
- American Geophysical Union Hydrology Section
- Geological Society of America Hydrogeology Division
- American Water Resources Association
Faculty
Diana Strode, Hydrology and Oceanography
Berg Instructional Center (BIC), Room 3C06A, (630) 942-2547
Contact Information
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Division
Berg Instructional Center (BIC), Room 2E06, (630) 942-3210