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 student-designed investigation at a wetland site and synthesize your research findings into a scientific 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 or environmental science
- A basic understanding of ecological systems
- Familiarity with taxonomic classification of plants
- Experience in technical or scientific writing at a college level
Time Commitment
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about 12 to 20 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 see if you qualify, make sure you are at the B2 level on the CEFR self-assessment grid. 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 computer with a recent operating system and web browser
- High-speed internet connection
Earning the Certificate
You earn a certificate of completion by successfully completing all required courses. For more information, see Earning the Certificate.
what you'll learn
- Wetland ecosystem processes and how to identify, delineate, classify, functionally assess, 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 and riparian 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 guidance from wetland science professionals
- Write technical documents typical of wetland science work, including wetland delineation reports and wetland restoration plans
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
71%
Alumni working in field
Sample Employers
Filtration Group, HDR, Herrera Environmental Consultants, Parametrix, University of Washington, various government agencies
14.5%
Projected job growth for environmental specialists in Washington state (2024-2034)
$84,760
Average salary for environmental specialists in Washington state (2023)
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.