Introduction of the PhD Program
Watershed Science and Engineering
Program Overview
The PhD Program in Watershed Science and Engineering is an advanced, research-oriented academic program offered within the field of Agricultural Engineering and Natural Resources, under the supervision of the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The revised curriculum of this program was formally reviewed and approved during the 61st Session of the Educational Planning Commission on March 9, 2016 (9/12/1394).
The approved curriculum replaced the former PhD program in Watershed Science and Engineering with specializations in “Water” and “Land” that had been ratified in 2002. Following approval, the revised program was officially communicated to all universities and higher education and research institutions subject to the regulations of the Ministry. The program is applicable to students admitted from the date of approval onward and is valid for a five-year period, after which it may be revised as necessary.
The PhD program is offered with two specialized tracks:
Nature and Objectives of the Program
Watershed Science and Engineering is a comprehensive discipline that focuses on policy-making, planning, design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of integrated measures aimed at conserving, rehabilitating, and sustainably managing watershed resources. The PhD program represents the highest level of university education in this specialized field and comprises a structured combination of advanced coursework and original research activities.
The primary objectives of the PhD Program in Watershed Science and Engineering are:
Program Structure and Duration
The structure and duration of the PhD program are determined in accordance with the regulations and academic guidelines of the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology.
The total number of required credits for the PhD degree is 36 credits, distributed as follows:
Selection of elective courses and completion of the coursework component are carried out under the supervision and approval of the academic advisor and the respective academic department.
Importance and Necessity of the Program
Increasing pressure on water resources, land degradation, soil erosion, flooding, and the impacts of climate variability have intensified the need for scientific and integrated watershed management, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions such as Iran. Effective protection of soil and water resources requires:
The PhD Program in Watershed Science and Engineering aims to address these challenges by training specialists capable of contributing to sustainable development, flood mitigation, soil and water conservation, and rational utilization of natural resources.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the PhD Program in Watershed Science and Engineering is conducted in accordance with the rules and regulations set by the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Academic Courses
The PhD program includes a range of advanced and interdisciplinary specialized and elective courses designed to strengthen analytical, quantitative, and managerial capacities. Students are required to complete 18 credits of coursework selected from the approved list, based on their specialization and with departmental approval.
Courses include, but are not limited to:
These courses emphasize strategic planning, modeling, quantitative analysis, project evaluation, and decision-making processes in watershed systems.
Sample Specialized Course Description
Advanced Watershed Management
This course is a 2-credit course consisting of both theoretical and practical components. The primary objective is to familiarize PhD students with strategic watershed management at regional and national scales.
Key topics include:
Practical components focus on applying strategic management models to real watershed case studies.
Graduate Competencies and Career Prospects
Graduates of the PhD Program in Watershed Science and Engineering acquire advanced scientific, analytical, and managerial competencies that enable them to perform effectively in:
Graduates are expected to play a significant role in scientific advancement, sustainable watershed development, and evidence-based decision-making processes at national and regional levels.
Concluding Remarks
The PhD Program in Watershed Science and Engineering is a multidisciplinary and strategically important academic program that integrates advanced education with research-driven inquiry. By emphasizing integrated watershed management, sustainable use of soil and water resources, and modern analytical approaches, the program contributes significantly to addressing water scarcity, land degradation, and flood-related challenges in arid and semi-arid regions.
