This program is a 2½ year engineering technology program which provides training in the environmental monitoring along with design, use and maintenance of water systems and wastewater and waste disposal facilities. The analysis, distribution and treatment of water and wastewater as required by municipalities, water-use industries and environmental monitoring agencies are an integral part of the program.

Areas of study include hydrology, hydraulics, instrumentation and control, water and wastewater management, biology and chemistry as they relate to environmental monitoring, data collection and analysis, along with treatment and distribution of water and wastewater. Courses include surveying, computer science, mathematics, technical communication, physics and environmental law. Emphasis will be placed on practical experience in analytical techniques, equipment maintenance and trouble shooting, and data management.

The program offers two semesters of common curriculum after which the students must specialize in either the Water and Wastewater Technology (WWT) option or the Environmental Monitoring (EM) option. The WWT option offers training in the areas of engineering technology, municipal sewage treatment, industrial wastewater treatment, domestic waterworks and irrigation systems. Topics include water plant design, water maintenance collection and distribution systems, and water analysis and treatment for human consumption and discharge to the environment.

The EM option provides training for technologists responsible for monitoring and planning as it relates to water quality and quantity in domestic, industrial or natural settings, as public or private employees. Topics include an understanding of techniques to assess chemical, biological and physical aspects of water quality along with hydrological and climate data analysis, interpretation and reporting. Relevant regulatory water quality standards will also be explored.

The program offers the option for coop placement in the industry after the second semester. For more information on the coop program, visit the web site of the Cooperative Education and Student Employment Centre.

Upon completion of the program, graduates will receive a diploma in Water Engineering Technology in one of the options listed above.

The program is nationally accredited by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB) and is thus recognized by both the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia and the College of Applied Biology of British Columbia. Graduates are eligible for registration as an Applied Science Technologist (AScT) and/or a Registered Biology Technologist (RBTech) after two years of related work experience. Graduates are also eligible to write certification exams administered by the Environmental Operators Certificate Program (EOCP) of BC. Graduates with eight months of work experience are eligible to write the EOCP Level 1 Examination.

For further information, please email the Department Chair at wetchairokanagan.bc.ca.