Water Resources Management

The Bachelor's Degree in Water Resources Management introduces students to public policy decisions and statutory mandates that govern water demand, affect water supply, and impact water quality. The concentration in Water Resources Management enables students to develop the knowledge and skills needed to apply organizational theories in leadership and integrated resource management, facilitate the complex nature of intergovernmental relations among local, state, federal, and private organizations, interpret major policies, legislative acts, and regulations governing water resources, analyze water policy issues, and evaluate alternative policy solutions. The program emphasizes the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) in water resource planning and management, ensuring that students understand how equitable policies and inclusive practices contribute to sustainable and socially responsible water governance. Students also explore financial management and budget forecasting functions and facilitate strategic planning and goal-setting processes for water sector organizations.

Employment for graduates occurs in a wide range of fields and sectors, including private, non-profit, and government agencies. Possible career paths include leadership roles in:

• Water Supply Utilities
• Water/Wastewater Treatment Plants
• Regulatory Agencies
• Groundwater and Conservation Districts
• Watershed/River Basin Authorities

The Bachelor’s Degree in Water Resources Management is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the water sector through a curriculum that integrates workforce preparation, civic education, and local community engagement. The program equips students with both the technical and managerial skills needed to address complex water resource challenges while promoting equitable and sustainable practices.

Workforce Preparation:

Students will develop the analytical, managerial, and technical competencies required for employment in public, private, and nonprofit water-related agencies. Emphasis is placed on organizational leadership, project management, policy interpretation, and financial stewardship within water utilities, wastewater treatment, and environmental regulatory sectors. Graduates will be equipped to engage with diverse stakeholders and apply advanced technological tools to improve efficiency and ensure regulatory compliance.

Civic Education and Local Purpose:

Students will gain a deep understanding of how water policy, legislation, and governance affect communities at local, state, and federal levels. The program promotes civic responsibility by emphasizing community engagement, intergovernmental collaboration, and ethical decision-making in water management. Through the integration of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) principles, students learn to advocate for equitable and sustainable water policies that address the needs of diverse populations.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Engage proactively with stakeholders and community decision makers to promote trust and environmental stewardship.
• Produce technical and policy documents that meet the needs of multiple, including global, audiences.
• Employ project management and analytical tools to achieve sustainable solutions for regulatory and environmental challenges.
• Utilize information technology to monitor, evaluate, and enhance water resource management performance.
• Apply theoretical and practical knowledge to effectively manage water supply and wastewater systems.
• Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of integrated water resource management and sustainable financial practices.
• Address contemporary social, environmental, and economic issues in water management with informed, ethical judgment.
• Analyze workplace social justice issues and reflect on personal growth through DEIA and anti-racism principles.
• Articulate sustainable management strategies from local to global perspectives.

Admission Requirements:

Upper Division Standing 

• Students interested in pursuing the Water Resources Management Bachelor of Science Degree must meet the following requirements to be considered to have upper division standing:
• Major courses: Students must have completed a minimum of eighteen semester units from a designated associate degree course sequence per California Community College Chancellor’s Office Taxonomy of Programs (TOP) codes 0958.00. In addition, environmental technologies coursework would also be applicable. Each course must be completed with a “C” or higher.
• A minimum of 30 lower division semester units or 45 quarter units in general education with a 2.0 cumulative GPA. The 30 units must include the following courses, completed with a C or higher:
• Written Communication
• Oral Communication
• Critical Thinking
• Mathematics
• Students must complete the Cal-GETC general education pattern prior to earning the bachelor’s degree. Students seeking admission to the program must meet the requirements for upper division standing or submit the following documents:
• A minimum overall undergraduate grade point average of 2.0.
• Submission of an online application to San Bernardino Valley College.
• Submission of a letter of application stating the student’s interests and goals.
• Submission of official transcripts* of all college-level course work to Admissions and Records.

*Applicants may submit unofficial transcripts for review by the departmental faculty. However, under college policy, admission decisions are contingent upon receipt of official transcripts.