Since 1987, Western Michigan University's Hydrogeology Field Course has provided students and working professionals with intensive, hands-on training in applied hydrogeology. Through six specialized field modules, participants gain practical experience using industry-standard equipment and techniques in geophysics, well drilling, groundwater monitoring, aquifer testing, environmental remediation, and hazardous waste operations.

Led by experienced instructors and industry professionals, the program bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world environmental fieldwork.

Summer 2027 Course Schedule

Summer II Semester

• GEOS 5230 – Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (40-hour OSHA HAZWOPER): July 6–9, 2027 
• GEOS 5250 – Surface Geophysics: July 12–17, 2027
• GEOS 5270 – Principles and Practices of Well Drilling and Installation: July 19–24, 2027
• GEOS 5280 – Principles and Practices of Groundwater Sampling and Monitoring: July 26–31, 2027
• GEOS 5260 – Principles and Practices of Aquifer Testing: August 2–7, 2027

• GEOS 5240 – Remediation Design and Implementation: August 9–13, 2027 (course closes by 5pm on Friday)

  Please note: The HAZWOPER module begins Tuesday, July 6, due to the university's observance of Independence Day on Monday, July 5.

Summer 2027 Applications

Applications for Summer 2027 open December 1, 2026. Application reviews and acceptance decisions will begin in January 2027.

Enrollment is limited, and qualified applicants are encouraged to apply early. Priority is given to applicants enrolling in multiple course modules.

Accepted students must submit a $100 per module reservation deposit within 10 business days of acceptance to secure their place. Deposits are applied toward course fees.

For eligibility requirements, application materials, and detailed instructions, please visit our Registration page. 

Prerequisites and Eligibility

Applicants must have completed an introductory college-level hydrogeology course or demonstrate equivalent professional experience. Applicants without the formal prerequisite may be considered with documentation of relevant experience and two professional recommendation letters.

WMU's GEOS 5120: Hydrogeology, offered online during the spring semester, satisfies the prerequisite.

International Students: Visiting international students must enroll in consecutive course modules (for example, Modules 1–3 or Modules 1–6).

Questions about the Hydrogeology Field Course? Contact HFC Director Tom Howe at @email.

Hydrogeology Certificate

Students interested in earning WMU's Certificate in Hydrogeology may combine applicable field course modules with the certificate program. Students should apply to the certificate program before or at the same time as enrolling in the HFC.