Hydrogeology Field Course Registration
To apply for the Hydrogeology Field Course (HFC) at Western Michigan University, applicants must follow the outlined registration process. Once all materials are prepared, mail a hard copy of the HFC registration packet to the director at the address below.
External applicants (students or professionals not currently enrolled at WMU) are welcome. Registration involves two steps:
- Apply to WMU (if not already enrolled).
- Submit the HFC application packet.
Registration for 2026 will begin on January 1, 2026
Who should apply
- Undergraduate and graduate students seeking credit and hands-on experience in applied hydrogeology.
- Professionals looking to enhance their field skills and practical knowledge in hydrogeology.
Enrollment is limited to upper-level undergraduates, graduate students, and qualified professionals. A college-level hydrogeology/geohydrology course (typically 3 credits) or equivalent professional experience is required. In special cases, exceptions may be made with the HFC director’s approval.
The course is especially suited for those studying or working in geology, hydrogeology, or environmental science.
Note: WMU’s Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences also offers a Certificate Program in Hydrogeology, which may be pursued alongside the HFC.
HFC Registration—2026
Registration Information
Registration for the Hydrogeology Field Course (HFC) opens January 1, 2026 and remains open until all spots are filled. Applications submitted before this date are accepted but will not be reviewed until registration officially begins. Because the course fills quickly, early completion of all application steps is strongly recommended.
Enrollment is limited to qualified applicants, with preference given to those who apply early or register for multiple weeks. Spots are reserved in the order that both the application and registration fee are received.
Two-Step Application Process
Applying to the HFC requires two separate applications, which may be completed at the same time:
- Apply to Western Michigan University (WMU) – Non-WMU students must complete an online WMU admissions application and submit it directly to the WMU Office of Admissions (not to the HFC or Department).
- Apply to the HFC – Mail a hard copy of the HFC application packet to:
Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences
c/o Tom Howe, HFC Director
See the instructions below for detailed application steps and links.
- Graduate Non-degree application: Those applicants who have earned a bachelor's degree at WMU or another university must register as a graduate non-degree seeking student. For questions regarding the graduate non-degree seeking application, please contact Graduate Admissions or International Admissions.
- Non-degree application: Those undergraduate applicants who are not currently attending another institution must register using the non-degree application. For questions regarding the non-degree application, please contact Admissions.
- Guest application (undergraduates only): Those applicants who are currently enrolled at another institution must register using the guest application. For questions regarding the guest application, please contact Admissions.
Application to the HFC:
Application Materials:
- 2026 HFC application
- Unofficial College Transcripts
All applicants must include an unofficial college transcript with their HFC application. The transcript must show current enrollment in or completion of a hydrogeology course.
If the transcript does not list this prerequisite, applicants must instead provide two professional recommendation letters demonstrating competence in hydrogeology or environmental science. - Reservation Deposit
Include a $100 per week deposit, payable by check to Western Michigan University (see Tuition and Fees for details). - HAZWOPER Certification - Applicants not enrolling in GEOS 5230 – Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) must provide proof of a current 40-hour HAZWOPER certification (and most recent update, if applicable) either by email to thomas.r.howe@wmich.edu or by including a copy in their mailed application.
Once all the above registration materials (HFC application, unofficial transcripts and reservation deposit) have been completed, mail hard copies of all documents (except WMU admissions application) to:
C/O: Thomas Howe
Hydrogeology Field Course
Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences
1903 West Michigan Ave
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5241 USA
Selection criteria
- Enrollment is limited to qualified applicants, with preference given to those who apply early and/or register for multiple weeks of the Hydrogeology Field Course.
- Spots for each session are open to both professionals and non-WMU students and will be assigned in the order that completed applications and registration fees are received.
Acceptance
All applicants will be informed of their admission decision in a timely manner after their application is received.