Texas A&M's 'The World Has a Drinking Problem' course addresses water scarcity challenges

Water is fundamental to sustaining life, yet billions of people around the world struggle to access this vital resource.

To tackle this pressing issue, Douglas Kingman, Ph.D., an instructional professor in the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, created a course for Texas A&M University students called “The World Has a Drinking Problem,” which dives deep into the complexities of global water challenges that touch every corner of the globe — including right here in Texas.

Originally designed in 2021 to satisfy both a science and cultural discourse credit, this class has exploded in popularity, drawing students from across campus to learn how water scarcity affects every person, not just those involved in agriculture and life sciences.

“This course is a great example of how the department is forging connections among its students and industry stakeholders in unique and innovative ways,” said Patricia Smith, Ph.D., head of the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering.

Most recently, the department tied to rank No. 1 among undergraduate programs in the nation according to the latest “Best Colleges” rankings by U.S. News and World Report.

“This course is about teaching all Aggies the importance of water conservation and how critical it is to address these issues for our future,” Kingman said. “We strive to educate our students about these critical issues and the need for solutions at a local, national and global level.”

A vision for water education

When tasked with creating a course that would appeal to a wide audience and fulfill multiple academic requirements, Kingman seized the opportunity. “The World Has a Drinking Problem” began with just 70 students and has since ballooned to nearly 300 per section, pulling students from over 50 different majors.

What draws students isn’t just the fact that the course checks off boxes for their degree plans and has a catchy title; it’s the importance and urgency of the subject matter. Kingman’s class delves deep into the issues surrounding water distribution, comparing bottled and tap water, and examining the political, social and environmental consequences of water shortages.

Through engaging lectures and lively group discussions, students critically explore not just the science behind water resources but also the societal implications of how this essential resource is distributed. They examine topics like the differences between bottled and tap water, the intricacies of irrigation and the ethics of water access.

With classmates from such a wide range of disciplines, students have a unique opportunity to engage with each other on how global water issues intersect with race, gender and socioeconomic status, gaining insight into how these factors disproportionately impact vulnerable communities.

Shaping the future of water management

Kingman teaches his students to approach problems from a holistic perspective, blending engineering and empathy.

Another unique aspect of the course is the dual focus, addressing the global water crisis and encouraging students to examine the social implications of unequal water distribution.

“The water crisis isn’t just an issue for Texas or the U.S.,” he said. “It’s global, and it’s going to affect agriculture, food security and the most vulnerable communities. There’s no quick fix, but innovation in areas like irrigation, water purification and policy can make a difference.”

Kingman attributes much of the course’s success to the flexibility his department has provided, allowing him to offer it outside the usual agricultural curriculum. He also credits the hard work of his teaching assistants, whose dedication has created a strong community amongst students each semester.

“The students are who really make the course special,” Kingman said. “Coming from diverse academic backgrounds, they bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table. Their varied points of view are essential to tackling the multifaceted problems of water management.”

Kingman’s course goes beyond the technical, incorporating lessons on how water scarcity disproportionately impacts disadvantaged communities. He emphasizes the need for students to develop empathy for those often overlooked in discussions about resources.

Through this broader human lens, he hopes students learn that the water crisis isn’t just about scarcity — it’s about justice. By encouraging critical thinking, Kingman helps his students connect their academic experiences to the real world, challenging their assumptions and expanding their horizons.

To learn more about the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, visit www.baen.tamu.edu.