Teachers

HydroCAD^Ž Stormwater Modeling - Since 1986

Why use HydroCAD?

HydroCAD is great way for students to learn about common H&H techniques, especially the SCS/NRCS methods including TR-20 and TR-55. HydroCAD also provides a wide range of additional features including TC calculations, pond storage, pond and reach routing, pollutant loading, and underground storage layout and modeling. And HydroCAD provides all these capabilities in an easy-to-use interactive format that makes learning fun and effective. Details here

How does HydroCAD compare to other H&H programs?

HydroCAD is the superior alternative for any teaching situation involving the SCS/NRCS methods, as well as the Rational method and SBUH procedure. HydroCAD can be used to replicate these results with great accuracy, while providing many additional features and capabilities. For details see our comparison chart.

Widely used and accepted

Since 1986, HydroCAD has been the leading choice for H&H software. With over 30,000 installations, HydroCAD is widely used and accepted by engineers, agencies, and schools throughout the country and around the world. For details, read about agency acceptance and see a partial list of HydroCAD users.

Easy to install and manage

HydroCAD is a compact, stand-alone application that installs in just 60 seconds, and will run on virtually any PC or laptop you currently own, with no special hardware or software requirements. The installation is simple enough for any computer user, while still providing special capabilities for power-users and IT personnel, such as silent installations. Details here.

Easy to use

Learning HydroCAD is fast and intuitive. And the built-in tutorial, help system, and printed Owner's Manual give you the additional resources you need to get the job done. Although we suggest that you allow a few days to become familiar with the program, most customers complete their first project in just a few hours. Our customer comments say it all.

What software do I need?

We offer a number of software options, depending on your specific needs:

Option 1: HydroCAD Sampler

For individual student use we recommend the free HydroCAD Sampler. The Sampler can be downloaded directly by each student for installation and use on their own computer.

The Sampler includes a detailed tutorial and an extensive help system, which is supplemented by additional information on our support page. A printed copy of the HydroCAD Owner's Manual is also available for purchase by students or bookstores, with substantial educational and quantity discounts.

Important: We are able to provide the free Sampler for educational use on the condition that valid contact information is provided with each download, including an individual email address. Incorrect, incomplete, or inappropriate registration information will compromise our ability to provide this free service. Instructors: Please urge your students to comply with these requirements. Continued availability of the Sampler depends on you!

Although the Sampler can also be used by instructors or computer labs, the following options are better-suited to these applications.

Option 2: Standard HydroCAD program

For instructors or computer labs we generally recommend a full 20-node HydroCAD system. This provides ample capacity for most educational purposes, with the flexibility to upgrade to a larger capacity for more demanding applications, such as research projects. If several people need to use HydroCAD at the same time, such as in a computer lab, we offer significant quantity discounts for multiple licenses.

Each purchase includes 90 days of Deluxe Support, including phone and email support, plus free updates (software maintenance.) After 90 days you can extend your Deluxe support plan for another year, or you can use our free web and email support and purchase updates as required. All prices are subject to a 25% educational discount, as well as our standard quantity discount.

Option 3: Metered HydroCAD usage

For situations that need a full HydroCAD program, but without the up-font cost, HydroCAD is also available on an hourly basis. This option lets you pay for just the hours you use, with no restrictions on the number of users or the node capacity. And there are no extra fees for software updates or technical support. Details here.

This is an excellent option for using HydroCAD on multiple computers, such as a computer lab. Just enter your login details each time you start HydroCAD, and the usage is logged to your account. Accounts can be configured for a specific class, project, or student, providing full access-control and accounting. Educational users are eligible for significant discounts off the normal hourly rate.

For more information

For further details please email your requirements to and we'll be glad to tailor a solution to your specific needs. Additional information is also available at the following links:

Student use Computer labs Detailed product information