Online Education for Working Professionals
Model natural and engineered hydraulic and hydrologic systems.

Manage large datasets and develop models for hydrodynamics.
Gain in-depth modeling experience using real-world case studies in a hydrologic, 2D
hydrodynamic, or hydraulic system. If your background is in one of the physical sciences,
geosciences, computational sciences, or engineering, you can boost your skill set
in this data-driven world. Learn to analyze and manage large datasets. Develop digital
systems for monitoring, control, and real-time decision support. A mean environmental
engineer salary is about $96,000 per yer.
Request Info
How to Apply
3 courses in 3 semesters.
Length |
3 courses in 2-3 semesters |
Effort |
3 hours per credit per week |
Each course |
3 credits |
Total credits |
9 |
Course type |
Online or on-campus |
Modality |
Watch class recordings on demand |
Cost |
Based on credits and course type |
Already enrolled? |
Speak with your advisor |
Progress quickly with a compact curriculum.
Work with the program advisor to select courses that fit your interests and prerequisite
skills.
Check your preparation.
Here are some of the pre-requisite courses for this certificate.
CEE 3620 - Water Resources Engineering
Introduction to hydrologic engineering, including rainfall-runoff modeling and hydrologic frequency analysis. Analysis and design of hydraulic systems such as pipe networks and storm water management systems. Computational, field, and experimental laboratory sessions reinforce lectures and provide hands-on learning opportunities.
- Credits:
4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-2)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions:
May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): (ENG 3200 or CEE 3200) and (MA 3710(C) or MA 2710(C) or MA 2720(C) or CEE 3502(C) or CEE 3710(C))
CEE 4505 - Surface Water Quality Engineering
Develops the scientific basis for water quality management in lakes and rivers. Considers the origin, behavior, and fate of nutrients and toxic substances. Introduces engineered approaches for lake management, including mass balance modeling. Presents techniques for water quality restoration and the legal framework supporting pollution control.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-3)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall
- Pre-Requisite(s): CEE 3501 or CEE 3503
The study of physical, chemical, and biological processes of freshwater eco systems with emphasis on lakes.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring
- Restrictions:
May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
MA 3520 - Elementary Differential Equations
First order equations, linear equations, and systems of equations.
- Credits:
2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions:
May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Mathematics, Computer Science
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 2160 and (MA 2320 or MA 2321 or MA 2330)
MA 3521 - Elementary Differential Equations
Offered second half of semester, to be taken concurrently with MA2321. Topics include first order equations, linear equations and systems of equations.
- Credits:
2.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-4-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring
- Restrictions:
May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Mathematics, Computer Science
- Co-Requisite(s): MA 2321
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 2160
MA 3530 - Introduction to Differential Equations
First order equations, linear equations, systems of equations, and Laplace transforms. May include elementary separation of variables for partial differential equations.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 2160 and (MA 2320 or MA 2321 or MA 2330)
MA 3560 - Mathematical Modeling with Differential Equations
Creating differential equation models for physical problems such as population dynamics, kinetics, mass-spring systems. Topics include nondimensionalization, numerical methods, phase-plane analysis, first-order systems, linearization, and stability. Includes modeling case studies, using a computer algebra system, and a modeling project.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 2160 and (MA 2320 or MA 2321 or MA 2330)
Take 9 credits of elective courses.
CEE 4620 - River and Floodplain Hydraulics
Analysis and modeling strategies of open channel systems, including natural channels, designed channels, flow transitions, non-uniform flow, and unsteady flow.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall
- Pre-Requisite(s): CEE 3620
CEE 5610 - Water Resources System Modeling & Design
Solve complicated, open-ended real-world water resources problems in natural and built systems by developing and executing models using state of the practice technologies. Includes programming to manage large datasets and validation or calibration and optimization of models for design.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-1-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring
- Restrictions:
Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
- Pre-Requisite(s): CEE 3620 or CEE 3650
CEE 5504 - Water Quality Modeling in Natural Systems
Application of mathematical modeling to water quality management. Models are developed to simulate natural phenomena, mass transport, and reaction kinetics in lake and river ecosystems. Students will construct simple models and be introduced to state of the art modeling tools.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-3)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): CEE 4505 or BL 4450
CEE 5520 - Introduction to Hydrodynamic Modeling
Introduce fundamental concept and numerical methods used in hydrodynamic modeling, physical process in the hydrodynamic system and their numerical representation using governing equations. Students construct simplified numerical models with application to problems of coastal oceans and large lakes, as well as engineering systems of interest to environmental and other engineers.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring
- Restrictions:
May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore, Junior
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 3520 or MA 3521 or MA 3530 or MA 3560
The minimum completion time is one semester.
Here is a typical schedule for a two semester option.
Fall |
Spring |
CEE 4620 |
CEE 5610 CEE 5504 |
- Check the schedule of online classes to see which of your required or elective courses are available for upcoming semesters.
- Consult the academic calendar for fall and spring instruction start dates.
- Estimate costs based on tuition and online fees.
- Apply to the Graduate School for fall or spring semester.
- Review MTU Flex announcements related to the Graduate School.
- Check the schedule of classes to see which of your required or elective courses are available for upcoming semesters.
- Consult the academic calendar for fall and spring instruction start dates.
- Estimate costs based on tuition.
- Apply to the Graduate School for fall or spring semester.
Interested in taking a single, online course? Enroll as a non-degree seeking student.
Upon completion of the certificate, students will be able to:
Apply the fundamentals of modeling using data including limitations in water resources
engineering design and analysis.
Michigan Tech was founded in 1885.
The University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and widely respected
by fast-paced industries, including automotive development, infrastructure, manufacturing,
and aerospace. Michigan Tech graduates deliver on rapid innovation and front-line
research, leaning into any challenge with confidence.
The College of Engineering fosters excellence in education and research.
We set out as the Michigan Mining School in 1885 to train mining engineers to better
operate copper mines. Today, more than 60 percent of Michigan Tech students are enrolled
in our 17 undergraduate and 29 graduate engineering programs across nine departments.
Our students and curriculum embrace the spirit of hard work and fortitude our founders
once had. Our online graduate courses are the same, robust classes taken by our doctorate
and masters candidates, taught directly by highly regarded faculty, with outstanding
support from staff. We invite working professionals to join these courses, bring their
own experience and challenges as part of the discussion. Leverage the national reputation
of Michigan Tech to advance your career in tech leadership.
Online Certified Instructors
Meet the online certified instructors. Students have the flexibility to review class
recordings later.
Teaching Statement
Dr. Barkdoll teaches courses in water resources engineering, hydraulic structures, water distribution and wastewater collection, and stream restoration.
View Profile
Teaching Statement
Dr. Gierke teaches groundwater engineering, data science for earth resource applications, and scientific communication.
View Profile
Teaching Statement
My goal is to provide a safe, exciting, and challenging learning environment for all students. I believe that many students are motivated to learn basic principles through practical application, and thus I frequently use problem-based learning methods and case studies in my courses. In nearly all my courses, students complete independent term projects so that they can dive deeper into topics of their choice. I also welcome guest speakers from industry and government, and I recognize the need for continuous professional development to stay up to date in the field of water resources engineering.
View Profile
Teaching Statement
Dr. Webster teaches uncertainty analysis, advanced hydrology, probabilistic analysis and reliability, environmental engineering, and water resources engineering.
View Profile
Teaching Statement
Dr. Xue has teaching interests in geophysical fluid dynamics, hydrodynamic modeling, water resources engineering, and ecosystem dynamics modeling.
View Profile