2024-2025 Catalog and Handbook 
  
    May 16, 2024  
2024-2025 Catalog and Handbook

Environmental Science - Water/Wastewater Specialization, AAS


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Purpose

The Water/Wastewater Major student will take course work from a wide array of natural resource offerings. These courses stress the practical application of scientific principles to the treatment of water for human consumption and for protection of water resources.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

  1. Possess the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in an entry-level position in a water/wastewater treatment facility.
  2. Become knowledgeable about processes and equipment used in water treatment, water distribution, wastewater collection and wastewater treatment.
  3. Demonstrate knowledge of the procedures related to water and wastewater treatment processes.
  4. Demonstrate basic knowledge of microbiology and chemistry applicable to water and wastewater treatment.
  5. Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of hydraulic systems as related to water and wastewater systems.
  6. Analyze and solve operational problems and perform mathematical calculations related to water and wastewater treatment processes.
  7. Describe major concepts, theories, and classic research studies in environmental science.
  8. Operate a treatment plant in a respectable and ethical manner as dictated by state and federal regulations.

Employment Opportunities

The Associate of Applied Science degree program in Environmental Science is designed to prepare students for employment in municipal and industrial treatment facilities and laboratories. State agencies and private companies also employ MECC Environmental Science graduates. As environmental concerns continue to make news headlines, the job market continues to expand.

Program Requirements

An academic advisor will review your preparation in Mathematics and English with you. You’ll be guided to appropriate preliminary coursework to give you the greatest chance of success in this program.

Additional Information

Distance Education Option: The entire Water/Wastewater Program can be completed through distance education courses. All technical courses are available through at water.mecc.edu. All support courses are available through web-based instruction. Opportunities for Advancement: Coursework in the Water/Wastewater major prepares students for the state certification exam required for a water or wastewater operator’s license. This license is essential for career advancement. Students will also be able to keep abreast of technological advances in the field of environmental science, thus furthering career opportunities in this and related fields.

For Further Information, Contact:

Dr. Chuks Ogbonnaya

cogbonnaya@mecc.edu

276.523.9088

Rosa Cooke

rcooke@mecc.edu

276.523.9083

Matthew Rose, Dean

mwrose@mecc.edu

276.523.7431

Program of Study


First Year Spring


Second Year Fall


Second Year Spring


Total Program Credits: 65


Notes and Additional Curriculum Options

Course substitutions may be available. Please see an advisor for more information.

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