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Water Environmental Technology

Water Environmental Technology

Degree Type: Associate of Applied Science Degree, AAS, Certificate, CER

Pathway: Science, Engineering and Math

More Options: Classroom Based, Remote Real-Time

Program Length: 4 Semesters

Location: Other Off-Campus Location

Transferability: Transferable

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Fall/Summer registration opens in March

Secure your spot in the classes you need for spring 2024 at Pikes Peak State College today, and take the next step towards achieving your academic and career goals!

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PLEASE NOTE:

Summer 2023 Update: The Water Environmental Technology Program (Water Environmental Technology AAS, Wastewater Collection & Treatment Certificate, and Water Distribution & Treatment Certificate) will be discontinued and is no longer admitting new students. Pikes Peak State College is committed to supporting current Water Environmental Technology students through their graduation. For current students completing the Water Environmental Technology AAS or Certificates, please contact Kristi Ramey at (Kristi.Ramey@pikespeak.edu) or (719)502-2028.
 

 

Water Testing

Why Choose Water Environmental Technology at PPSC?

Water is an essential nutrient for sustaining all life. The quality of our nation's water systems is a concern for current and future generations. Water and wastewater technicians inspect, sample, test and monitor groundwater and surface water sources for harmful contaminants.  PPSC Water Environmental Technology students learn about this important field and how to apply the skills needed to succeed in the workforce. 

What do PPSC Water Environmental Technology students study?

Water Environmental Technology instructors teach an in-depth understanding of the distribution, collection and treatment of water and wastewater. 

You will learn:

  • The science and math of water treatment
  • The wastewater collection systems
  • The importance of safety and security systems
  • The water cycle for human use and consumption

Water Environmental Technology incorporates classroom, field experiences, and group projects to help students prepare for work in water and wastewater treatment facilities.

 

 

 

 

Water Environmental Technology Classes You Might Take

Here are some classes you could take at PPSC
Water Environmental Technology Picture

Provides an in-depth study of the calculations associated with water and wastewater treatment. Topics include dimensional analysis, manipulation of conversion factors, geometric figures, velocities, detention time, surface loading, filtration and backwash rates, porosity, weir overflow rates, efficiencies, weight of dry solids, sludge pumping, settleable solids, volatile solids, mean cell residence times, settleability, disinfection and chemical dosage as relating to trickling filters, ponds, RBC, and activated sludge.

Water Environmental Technology Picture

Covers coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtering, corrosion and taste and odors. Topics for each process include descriptions, operating procedures, associated calculations, startup and shut down procedures, laboratory tests, troubleshooting, maintenance, safety and records.

Water Environmental Technology Image

Introduces the mathematical principles of density, specific gravity, pressures, horsepower and energy costs, velocities, weirs, parshall flumes, venturi meters, California Pipe method, flows from open end pipes, settling velocities and classification of flows.

Water Environmental Technology Picture

Provides the knowledge and skills to implement a compliance-monitoring program for a water treatment facility using groundwater or source water. The topics covered include all regulatory requirements found in the Safe Drinking Water Act regarding microbial and chemical contamination for monitoring and reporting operations.

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Voices of PPSC

Karen Medville

Voices of PPSC

PPSC laid the foundation for me to build on. It provided the appropriate level of course work that I needed in order to believe in myself.

Karen Medville
American Indian Program Manager | Class of 1985

  • This certificate can be completed in 1 Semester
  • This certificate is 17 Credit Hours

Provides an in-depth study of the calculations associated with water and wastewater treatment. Topics include dimensional analysis, manipulation of conversion factors, geometric figures, velocities, detention time, surface loading, filtration and backwash rates, porosity, weir overflow rates, efficiencies, weight of dry solids, sludge pumping, settleable solids, volatile solids, mean cell residence times, settleability, disinfection and chemical dosage as relating to trickling filters, ponds, RBC, and activated sludge.

Serves as a basic introduction into wastewater treatment. Topics include the technician and their responsibility, effects of waste discharges, natural cycles, solids in wastewater, NPDES permits, collection systems, pretreatment, primary treatment, secondary treatment, advanced treatment, flow measuring, solids handling and disposal.

Covers the purpose, components and design of collection systems. Topics include safety procedures, inspection and testing, pipeline cleaning and maintenance, underground repair, lift stations and sewer rehabilitation.

Provides a general understanding of mechanical and electrical equipment and its maintenance. Topics include safety procedures; correct use of power and hand tools; and preventive maintenance and repair maintenance of pumps, motors, chlorinators, motor control units, and other treatment plant equipment.

Provides a study of safety procedures performed in the water and wastewater industry. This course covers the importance of safety and how to implement safety practices in the workplace by studying OSHA guidelines, driving practices, confined spaces, and chemical handling.

  • This certificate can be completed in 1 Semester
  • This certificate is 17 Credit Hours

Provides an in-depth study of the calculations associated with water and wastewater treatment. Topics include dimensional analysis, manipulation of conversion factors, geometric figures, velocities, detention time, surface loading, filtration and backwash rates, porosity, weir overflow rates, efficiencies, weight of dry solids, sludge pumping, settleable solids, volatile solids, mean cell residence times, settleability, disinfection and chemical dosage as relating to trickling filters, ponds, RBC, and activated sludge.

Covers the purpose, selection and location of water storage facilities and the operation and maintenance of related equipment. Topics include storage facilities and capabilities, booster pumps, water mains and appurtenances, joints, pipe protection and installation, valves, fittings and hydrants. Water quality standards, contaminants and degradation inspection and monitoring, system troubleshooting, surveillance, cross connections, pressure main breaks, corrosion control, disinfection and emergency planning are also covered.

Covers coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtering, corrosion and taste and odors. Topics for each process include descriptions, operating procedures, associated calculations, startup and shut down procedures, laboratory tests, troubleshooting, maintenance, safety and records.

Provides a general understanding of mechanical and electrical equipment and its maintenance. Topics include safety procedures; correct use of power and hand tools; and preventive maintenance and repair maintenance of pumps, motors, chlorinators, motor control units, and other treatment plant equipment.

Provides a study of safety procedures performed in the water and wastewater industry. This course covers the importance of safety and how to implement safety practices in the workplace by studying OSHA guidelines, driving practices, confined spaces, and chemical handling.
Student Studying

Water Environmental Technology Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Water Environmental Technology degree program, students should be able to:
  1. Perform mathematical calculations specific to the water quality industry.
  2. Explain the importance of safety practices in the water and wastewater industry.
  3. Describe the fundamental business practices utilized in managing water or wastewater utilities.
  4. Discuss drinking water regulatory requirements and their implementation.
  5. Define specific terms associated with water quality management.
  6. Prepare, analyze, interpret and report results of water sample testing.
  7. Apply principles of hydraulics and equipment maintenance to wastewater management practices.
  8. Effectively communicate current events and advances in the water quality industry.
  9. Define and describe the types, functions, layout of and equipment used in water management facilities (water distribution, water collection, wastewater treatment).

 

Apply for Scholarships & Grants

Every year the PPSC Foundation offers hundreds of thousands of dollar's worth of scholarship money for eligible and in need students. To learn more about scholarship availability, please visit: pikespeak.edu/scholarships
Student's Studying

 

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