Whether you call it water, agua, čúuš, 水, 물, nước, вода, or something else, it’s a part of daily life. From drinking water and cooking to agriculture, manufacturing, recreation, art and much more, water is key to surviving and thriving on our planet. 

How do you translate a personal interest in water into academic research or a career? Or as a professional, how do you connect with others who work in water-related disciplines or research water issues? Read on to learn more about opportunities at PSU and beyond.

At PSU, undergraduate and graduate students pursue a broad range of degrees, minors, and certificates that connect with water. Unique partnerships, internships and research experiences provide the opportunity to explore disciplines and build professional skills. At PSU, students can study water in the context of other disciplines, such as ITECK, communications, conflict resolution and more.  Learn more by clicking on one of the links below.

Did you know?

In the next 10 years, approximately 50,000 water workforce-related jobs are projected to be available in Oregon. Most of these jobs require at least a Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s degree.

Upcoming Events and Opportunities

Date & Time

Description

Other Details

May 7, 1 - 4 pm

Hydrosocial Stories: Water and Society through Art and Science

PSU Native American Student and Community Center (NASCC)

Additional details and event submission form

May 15, 3:30 - 4:30 (Seminar) and 4:30 - 5:30 (Networking)

UPP Science Seminar and Networking: Klamath Dams

Speaker: Liam Schenk

PSU Urban Center, Parson's Gallery (Room 212)

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area staff build bundles of willows and other hardwoods and plant them along sections of the Klickitat Wild & Scenic River

Faculty Directory

Water@PSU has compiled a list of faculty across disciplines to foster connections between faculty, staff and other water professionals as well as current and prospective students.

Water@PSU: In the News

Microplastics in Oregon's Aquatic Ecosystems

Environmental Science and Management Professor Elise Granek discusses microplastics in six of Oregon's seafood species. 

USGS-PSU Partnership Featured in PSU Magazine

The latest PSU Magazine recognizes the UPP as a model partnership making waves across the state.

photo of columbia river running through landforms with sunshine on the far right of the image

A new approach to conservation: ‘Indigenize’ not ‘decolonize’

Serina Fast Horse began working as an intern with the Environmental Services’ Community Watershed Stewardship

river flows swiftly over rocks with trees along the bank

Contact 

waterpsu@pdx.edu

 

Updated: March 27, 2025