Degree Program
DMACC's innovative Water Environmental Technology degree program provides pre-employment training as well as advanced courses in water and wastewater technology for those wishing career advancement. Courses are designed to prepare students for entry-level employment in water and wastewater treatment operations as well as for certification examinations administered by the State of Iowa and those administered by professional associations within the water and wastewater industry. This degree program has both industrial plant operations training and water operations training with an emphasis on hands-on experiences and instruction. Students may choose an emphasis in either water treatment, wastewater treatment or both.
Current instructors are experienced water and wastewater professional expert and up-to-date in industry practices. Classes are built around practical examples of real-world scenarios, demonstrations, and field trips to maximize understanding of subject matter. Internships are required.
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be qualified to seek employment or advancement in a wide variety of settings including water and wastewater treatment companies and facilities, municipalities and state and federal agencies.
Nearly every employer requires state certification at some level. The DMACC WET program provides you with the fastest educational track to achieving each level of certification and gives you the knowledge you need to take the exams. A 2-year AAS WET degree is an extremely valuable tool that will benefit you your entire life. Those who rely solely on non-credit (CEU) training must take hundreds or thousands of hours of classes over many years whereas the DMACC WET program can be done in 2 or more years and give you a distinct advantage in the industry. Many employers have told DMACC that they look at the WET program as their "pipeline" for future staff.
Work experience requirements must be met before you are eligible to take an examination for certification. Be sure to refer to the certifying body in your area to determine eligibility.In Iowa,
visit the DNR website.
Program entry requirements:
- Complete an
application for admission.
- Satisfy the
assessment requirement.
- Attend any required information/registration session.
- Complete a high school chemistry course and biology course or equivalent with a "C" or higher.
Graduation Requirements
To earn a Water Environmental Technology AAS degree, a student must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average. A grade of 2.0 (C) or better is required in all courses required for this degree.
All students take the same courses in Semesters 1-3. In Semesters 4, 5 and 6 students must choose either the Wastewater Treatment Emphasis or the Water Environmental Technology Emphasis.
Program Details