About this Program
Wetlands play a critical role in our natural and human environments, improving water quality, mitigating flooding and erosion, and supporting a diversity of flora and fauna. This importance is reflected in the steady job growth in the field of wetland science and management in the private, nonprofit and government sectors.
In this rigorous, six-course certificate program, we’ll explore the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of wetlands and their many functions. You’ll get in-depth training in identifying, delineating, classifying, functionally assessing and rating wetlands using plant, soil, hydrologic and landscape data. We’ll also delve into the complex wetland regulatory environment that facilitates the protection, restoration and prudent management of wetlands. You'll apply what you've learned in the program-long practicum, where you'll undertake a research project at a wetland site and synthesize your findings into a written report and presentation.
DESIGNED FOR
Professionals who work on wetland issues and those who want to enter the field.
See Requirements
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
To apply, you must have:
A bachelor’s degree
At least 20 college-level credits of natural science coursework such as biology, ecology, botany, zoology and environmental science
Also Recommended
Professional experience in the natural sciences and a basic understanding of ecological systems
Familiarity with data analysis and statistics
Technical and scientific writing experience
Time Commitment
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about 10 to 15 hours each week on coursework.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have at least intermediate English skills to enroll. To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs .
International Students
To enroll, international students must have a visa that permits study in the United States. This program does not enable students to obtain or maintain F-1 visa status. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students .
Technology Requirements
Access to a recent computer with:
Windows operating system (MacOS users would need to install and configure Windows emulation software in order to run the Esri ArcGIS software)
At least 16GB of RAM
20GB or more of available disk space
Recent web browser
High-speed internet connection
Ideally, the computer should meet the system requirements identified on the ArcGIS Pro website.
Earning the Certificate
You earn a certificate of completion by adhering to the program's attendance policy and successfully completing all required courses. For more information, see Earning the Certificate .
Video Overview
Graduates and instructors of the Certificate in Wetland Science & Management share highlights of the program.
Duration: 02:53
Play
what you'll learn
Wetland ecosystem processes and how to identify, delineate, classify and rate wetlands
The fundamentals and application of wetland regulation law and policy
Landscape assessment and geospatial analysis tools for wetland resource management and conservation planning
Identification of common wetland plants in the Puget Sound region
Processes for planning, developing and implementing wetland restoration and mitigation
Get Hands-On Experience
Design and implement a research project at a selected wetland site with the guidance of from wetland science professionals
Write technical documents typical of wetland science work, including wetland delineation reports and wetland rating and functional assessments
APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP
You may be eligible to apply for a UW Certificate Scholarship or Rotary Scholarship to cover most of the costs of this program. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and the potential of the program to positively impact your career. For more information, see the Scholarships page.
Career Stats
69%
Alumni working in field
Sample Employers
The Watershed Company, Herrera Environmental Consultants, ESA, Parametrix. Shannon & Wilson, various government agencies
21%
Projected job growth for environmental specialists in Washington state (2018-2028)
$79,620
Average salary for environmental specialists in Washington state (2020)
OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP
Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options .