Water Technology and Desalination MSc/Diploma

Heriot-Watt University and the International Desalination Association are pleased to offer a scholarship for students to this joint Masters programme. Read more about eligibility criteria and how to apply.

Water resource management is a global issue that is becoming increasingly important. With a rapidly growing world population, greater urbanisation and a changing climate putting pressure on freshwater resources, water resource management and the technologies that support it, will play a large part in providing fresh water to meet basic human needs.

Water Technology and Desalination is designed for science and engineering graduates, as well as practising engineers, who wish to gain specialised knowledge in water treatment with an emphasis on membrane technology.

The programme aims to provide a sound understanding of a range of technologies that can be developed to provide safe, accessible water supply from saline groundwater and seawater. In particular, there is a technical focus on the design parameters and processes underpinning their efficient performance and operation. Students will also develop a critical awareness of the wider issues of resource management within the context of global change and the challenges presented by the need for desalination to be delivered on a technically robust and sustainable basis.

Delivered only by Independent Distance Learning (IDL) this programme is ideal for those in employment or with other commitments and provides flexible study options that fit around work or family. Students receive comprehensive materials for each course through an online Virtual Learning Environment.

The programme is jointly offered through the Institute for Infrastructure and Environment at Heriot-Watt University and the International Desalination Association of USA (IDA) and is primarily designed for graduates in engineering, earth and environmental sciences or other related disciplines looking to extend their technical expertise, gain further learning to meet their desire for professional development or to advance their employment opportunities. We also welcome professionals from other backgrounds who have relevant experience in the water industry.

The Water Technology and Desalination Programme is designed to be completed over a two year period, however students who are unable to complete the programme within this timeframe can take more time to finish their studies. Since the Independent Distance Learning mode of study provides flexibility, the duration of the programme depends on how much time a student can devote to their studies.

Upon successful completion of the Water Technology and Desalination programme, students will be awarded with a Heriot-Watt University degree as well as an IDA Desalination Academy Certificate of Completion.

Water Technology and Desalination is jointly offered by Heriot-Watt University and the International Desalination Association’s Desalination Academy, two institutions with a reputation for excellence. Heriot-Watt University’s Water Research Group is a leader in its field, with research spanning flood engineering to water treatment.

The Desalination Academy’s Master Teachers represent the world’s leading authorities in all aspects of desalination, from technology and operations to the economics of desalination. Master Teachers bring with them a deep technical expertise along with extensive experience in the field.

Heriot-Watt University and the Desalination Academy together offer a programme that blends the foremost theoretical advancements in the field with real-world, technical expertise.