WRM-703: Water Quality Assessment and Management

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This doctoral-level course provides a comprehensive and critical examination of the scientific, technical, and policy dimensions of water quality assessment and management. Students will explore the physical, chemical, and biological parameters that define water quality; the design and implementation of monitoring programs; the sources, fate, and transport of pollutants; water treatment and pollution control technologies; the legal and regulatory frameworks (including WHO guidelines, EPA standards, and the EU Water Framework Directive); and integrated approaches to water quality modeling and basin management. The course integrates fundamental principles with case studies and emphasizes the application of evidence-based strategies to protect and restore water resources for human and ecological health.

COURSE TEACHING OBJECTIVES

1. Analyze the key physical, chemical, and biological indicators of water quality and their implications for human and ecosystem health.
2. Design and evaluate water quality monitoring programs, including sampling strategies, analytical methods, and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) protocols.
3. Critically examine the sources, transport, and fate of conventional and emerging pollutants in freshwater systems.
4. Assess water and wastewater treatment technologies and pollution prevention strategies for point and nonpoint sources.
5. Evaluate water quality standards, regulatory frameworks, and integrated management approaches (including modeling and decision support) for water quality protection.

COURSE STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Interpret water quality data and assess compliance with standards using key physical, chemical, and biological indicators.
2. Develop a water quality monitoring plan for a river, lake, or aquifer, including sampling design, parameter selection, and QA/QC.
3. Identify and quantify sources of pollution and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment technologies and best management practices.
4. Analyze the legal and regulatory requirements for water quality management in different jurisdictions (WHO, EPA, EU).
5. Apply water quality models and integrated basin management approaches to support decision-making for pollution control.

Organization of Course Studies

The course is organized into five study periods (typically 2 weeks each, though self-paced). Each period includes intensive reading of the assigned textbook, viewing of the supplementary video, and a short response paper or ethical analysis (500–1,000 words) reflecting on the material and its application.