Wastewater Technology Education
Associate in Science Trade & Industry · Palomar College · 2026-2027 Catalog
This program provides comprehensive education to a diverse constituency for a career in the water and wastewater field that prepares students to contribute effectively in a profession responsible for protecting public health. Students will be qualified and prepared for industry certification exams including the State Water Resources Control Board and other certifying organizations.
Learning Outcome(s):
- Demonstrate the ability to analyze data, troubleshoot a problem, and apply a solution to a water/wastewater related issue.
- Demonstrate the ability to perform calculations based on operational data with a myriad of variables in order to perform duties as a water or wastewater operator.
- Communicate effectively through written and verbal means by describing water/wastewater systems, related issue, and the appropriate action to resolve the situation.
- Describe, interpret, and apply federal, state, and local regulations for water and wastewater systems.
- Develop a working knowledge of industry equipment and nomenclature.
- Inspect, evaluate, and operate wastewater collection systems and wastewater treatment plants.
- Inspect, evaluate, and operate water distribution systems and water treatment plants.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Wastewater Technology Program Requirements | 21 | |
| WTE 149 | Calculations in Water/Wastewater Technology | 3 |
| WTE 153 | Basic Plant Operations: Wastewater Treatment | 3 |
| WTE 155 | Wastewater Collection Systems | 3 |
| WTE 156 | Intro to Electrical and Instrumentation Processes | 3 |
| WTE 160 | Public Works Management | 3 |
| WTE 166 | Motors, Pumps, and Hydraulics | 3 |
| WTE 263 | Advanced Plant Operations: Wastewater Treatment | 3 |
| Wastewater Technology Electives (Select 9 units) | 9 | |
| WTE 51 | Career Pathways in Water Technology | 3 |
| WTE 102 | Fundamentals of Water and Wastewater | 3 |
| WTE 158 | Backflow Tester Training | 3 |
| WTE 162 | Cross Connection Specialist | 3 |
| WTE 164 | Laboratory Analysis for Water/Wastewater | 3 |
| WTE 197 | Water Technology Education Topics | 3-4 |
| CE 100 | Cooperative Education | 3-4 |
| Total | 30 | |