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Updated in [April 12th, 2023]

Learners can learn from this course about the biological principles of wastewater treatment, including the fundamentals of microbial ecology, the role of microorganisms in wastewater treatment, and the design of biological wastewater treatment systems. They can also learn about the different unit processes used in wastewater treatment, such as activated sludge, anaerobic digestion, and constructed wetlands, and how to select the best process for a given wastewater treatment application. Additionally, learners can gain knowledge on how to design a wastewater treatment system to meet water quality goals, including the design of aeration systems, solids separation systems, and disinfection systems.

[Applications]
After completing this course, students should be able to apply the knowledge of biological principles in wastewater treatment to design and operate wastewater treatment systems. They should be able to select the best unit process to treat wastewater, and design a wastewater treatment component or process to meet water quality treatment goals. Additionally, they should be able to identify and evaluate the environmental impacts of wastewater treatment systems.

[Career Paths]
1. Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator: Wastewater treatment plant operators are responsible for the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants. They monitor and adjust the plant's equipment and processes to ensure that the plant is running efficiently and safely. They also monitor the quality of the wastewater and adjust the treatment process accordingly. As the demand for clean water increases, the need for wastewater treatment plant operators is expected to grow.

2. Environmental Engineer: Environmental engineers are responsible for designing and implementing solutions to environmental problems. They use their knowledge of engineering, biology, and chemistry to develop solutions to environmental issues such as air and water pollution, waste management, and climate change. As environmental issues become more pressing, the demand for environmental engineers is expected to increase.

3. Water Quality Analyst: Water quality analysts are responsible for monitoring and analyzing the quality of water in a variety of settings. They use their knowledge of chemistry and biology to test and analyze water samples and make recommendations for improving water quality. As the demand for clean water increases, the need for water quality analysts is expected to grow.

4. Water Resources Manager: Water resources managers are responsible for managing and protecting water resources. They use their knowledge of hydrology, ecology, and engineering to develop plans for managing water resources and protecting them from pollution and overuse. As the demand for clean water increases, the need for water resources managers is expected to grow.

[Education Paths]
1. Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering: This degree program focuses on the application of engineering principles to the protection and management of the environment. It covers topics such as water and air pollution control, hazardous waste management, and environmental impact assessment. Students learn to design and develop systems to reduce environmental pollution and protect public health. This degree is becoming increasingly popular as environmental issues become more pressing.

2. Master of Science in Water Resources Engineering: This degree program focuses on the management of water resources, including the design and operation of water supply and wastewater treatment systems. Students learn to analyze and design systems to manage water resources, including water supply, wastewater treatment, and stormwater management. This degree is becoming increasingly important as water scarcity and water pollution become more pressing issues.

3. Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Science: This degree program focuses on the study of the environment and its interactions with human activities. Students learn to analyze and interpret environmental data, develop models to predict environmental impacts, and design strategies to mitigate environmental problems. This degree is becoming increasingly important as environmental issues become more complex and global in scope.

4. Master of Science in Environmental Chemistry: This degree program focuses on the study of the chemical processes that occur in the environment. Students learn to analyze and interpret environmental data, develop models to predict environmental impacts, and design strategies to mitigate environmental problems. This degree is becoming increasingly important as environmental issues become more complex and global in scope.