Hydrogeologists study the distribution, flow, and quality of water underground. With ever-rising population pressures many countries, including New Zealand, are increasingly turning to groundwater to meet potable water supply needs. However, finding and developing this precious resource is a time-consuming and complicated exercise, encompassing such diverse activities as geologic field mapping through to complex mathematical modelling. Hydrogeology is also integral to the construction industry, where knowledge of groundwater conditions is vital before undertaking any engineering project.
This course provides insight into the practical side of hydrogeology by introducing the various processes and techniques utilised in the discovery, development, and assessment of the long-term viability of groundwater resources. Groundwater-related engineering issues are also introduced, and laboratory and field-based exercises familiarise students with some of the methods used in shallow groundwater investigations.
As a core course in the Masters of Engineering Geology and an elective in the Masters of Science degrees, the skills developed in this course are particularly useful for those pursuing a career in the engineering geology, civil engineering, or construction industries. They would also be of benefit to those wishing to enter careers involving water-related environmental issues, and the discovery and development of resources in general.
Although there are no specific prerequisites for this course, an understanding of basic geology is assumed, and a previous qualification in earth sciences or geology is helpful. However, any student who is willing to do a little catch-up on some topics with which they are unfamiliar should be able to complete the course.