<p>Keya,</p>
<p>There are a lot of opportunities available to you in Michigan for groundwater study. Depending on your GPA UMichigan may be worth a look (they have a very well-known geology department, but it seems most students go on to the PhD there). However, I would advise you to apply to Michigan State. I know they have a pretty good groundwater group there <a href="http://geology.msu.edu/hydrogeology.html%5B/url%5D">http://geology.msu.edu/hydrogeology.html</a> and know someone who graduated with his MS in geology there and had no problems finding jobs in the Great Lakes area.</p>
<p>Another option, if you want to stray a little is Wisconsin. I'm in the geology department there and there is an excellent groundwater group here (great placement as well). </p>
<p>The MS in geology is NOT looked down upon. It is actually a great move, as getting the PhD can limit your opportunities for employment with many environmental consulting firms. </p>
<p>If you have any questions about pursuing graduate school in the geological sciences (which includes hydro), don't hesitate to PM me.</p>