Program Description

The Water Quality Technology, AAS degree, prepares students for a career in water quality operations through an integrated curriculum of core water quality technology courses, STEM elective courses, general education courses, and hands-on work-based learning. The degree includes five introductory courses in water and wastewater operations, 25-credit hours of related cooperative work experience, foundational courses in math and science, and STEM elective courses. The degree prepares students to take the Level I Operator Certification exams for water and wastewater. The cooperative work experience is hands on training and is equivalent to approximately 5 months of full-time work experience.

Program Outcomes

1. Explain the terms and concepts, including the mathematical skills necessary to pass the Level I water and wastewater certification examinations
2. Explain the maintenance and operation of water treatment, water distribution, wastewater treatment, and wastewater collection systems relative to operator job responsibilities
3. Express concepts, ideas, technical principles, and feedback in a manner that promotes understanding and encourages cooperation and collaboration
4. Apply laboratory sampling and testing methods approved by regulatory agencies to water quality and treatment process performance reporting
5. Analyze quantitative water and wastewater relationships using mathematics, equations, and graphs to determine plans of action consistent with industry protocols

Program Course Requirements

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See instructor the term prior for information on cooperative work experience. 25 credits needed to meet program requirements.

Advising Notes

• All courses must be passed with a grade of C or better.