"... in the 21st Century we have to develop an integrated approach across the disciplines to understand the complexity of water issues worldwide."
Dr. Rita Colwell, recent NSF Director

To meet this challenge, Tufts University has established the Water: Systems, Science, and Society (WSSS) Ph.D. and MA/MS Program. The purpose of the WSSS program is to provide the interdisciplinary perspectives and tools to manage water related problems.

Students participating in the WSSS program enroll in and fulfill the requirements of a graduate degree within one of the participating Schools listed on the sidebar to ensure a strong knowledge base in their chosen field as well complete WSSS requirements. Through the use of electives and co-listed courses, the WSSS Program usually will not add time on to a graduate degree. Upon completion of these activities, students receive a Certificate in Water: Systems, Science, and Society as well as their graduate degree.

WSSS students work in one of six Research Areas on interdisciplinary, problem-focused projects. They take courses in four areas and participate in cross-cutting seminars. Students also participate in a Professional Interdisciplinary Experience and skill workshops while completing their research. First-year students participate in a special WSSS Research Practicum. Details of the WSSS program can be found on this site and in the Student Handbook.