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Water Science

The Water Science Program at SCC is one of only a few programs of its kind in the United States with direct ties to the United States Geological Survey. Earning the AAS in Water Science provides hands-on experience in the field learning how to measure water flow, collect samples, complete field surveys, analyze and report water quality conditions, and learn about aquatic life and their ecosystems to help improve fish habitat. Additional coursework and training in GIS, water and wastewater operations, and career networking are also part of the degree in preparation for a career in local, state and federal agencies, tribes, and private industry.

Earning the one-year certificate in Water & Wastewater Operations provides foundational general education along with training on specific topics within these fields to help prepare for the Washington State Operator in Training (OIT) exams. Working industry professionals are brought in as adjunct faculty to teach classes providing current and relevant subject matter.

Earning the one-year certificate in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) provides up to date training using the latest GIS software versions combined with practical applications and a cap stone project working with a community partners on real world projects. The GIS certificate is embedded within the Water Science AAS degree.

Students completing the Water Science degree can earn a BA or BS degree in Geosciences at Eastern Washington University in 2 years under a 2+2 direct transfer agreement.

What You’ll Learn

Breaking Ground on Your Pathway


Plan Your Courses

Meet with our counselors to customize this plan just for you. You can also search the quarterly schedule for class days and times.

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Total Credits:

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NOTE: All students must recieve a minimum 2.5 GPA in all support courses


Program Courses

NOTE: You must apply and be accepted into the program before taking the following courses

Estimated costs for completing this program

Estimated costs for completing this program
Cost Type WA Resident Non-Resident International
Total Costs $ $ $

Costs for completing a degree or certificate can vary. For more information about costs, visit our How Much Does it Cost? page.

Water Science

Students completing the Water Science Progream will have specialized training in:

  • Installing, operating, and maintaining instruments used in stream gaging and discharge measurement

  • Collecting, recognizing, and identifying aquatic organisms from invertebrate insects to fish species, relating what is found to the habitat and aquatic ecosystem conditions

  • Restoration practices used to improve fish habitat and water quality, including techniques to stabilize slopes and recover degraded lakes and stream courses

  • Advanced data collection and analysis techniques pertaining to hydrology

     

Certificate in Water and Wastewater 

Students completing the Certificate in Water and Wastewater will have specialized training in:

  • Common system operations pertaining to both water and wastewater

  • Regulatory permitting requirements common to both water and wastewater

  • Preparation for Operator in Training (OIT) exams for both water and wastewater

  • Networking for internships and job placement
     

Additional Information

Customized options to accommodate online and remote students are available.  We also have a streamlined program for students with bachelor’s degrees. If you already have a bachelor's degree from an accredited university (regardless of your major), you can get through the program quicker while still learning:

  • Stream discharge/gaging measurements using Acoustic Doppler

  • Groundwater and surface water sampling and analyses

  • Watershed restoration monitoring and techniques

  • Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

Have a question? Let's hear it.

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Pathway Specialist

scc.reg-office@scc.spokane.edu

Kerrin Langford

Pathway Specialist for Ferry, Pend Oreille, and Stevens County Students
Kerrin.Langford@scc.spokane.edu
509-279-6737

Leslie Plum

Workforce Transition Specialist

Katherine Cornelis

Workforce Transition Specialist for Ferry, Pend Oreielle, and Stevens County Students
Katherine.Cornelis@scc.spokane.edu
509-279-6961

David Stasney

Department Chair
David.Stasney@scc.spokane.edu
509-533-7278

Academic Counseling

counseling@scc.spokane.edu