Certificate in Wetland Science & Management

Investigate the Unique Properties of Wetlands

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Program Details

  • Location: Downtown Seattle
  • Duration: 9 months
  • Times: Evenings, Weekends, Flexible
  • Cost: $6,349

Next start date:

September 2025

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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

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

Sample Employers

The Watershed Company, Herrera Environmental Consultants, ESA, Parametrix, Mountain to Sound Greenway Trust, various government agencies

23%

Projected job growth for environmental specialists in Washington state (2020-2030)

$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.

Program Overview

Complete the courses listed below to earn the certificate.

Learning Format

classroom

In-Person

Attend classes at one of our convenient locations in the Puget Sound region. You’ll engage face-to-face face with your classmates and instructors as part of a highly interactive curriculum. Learn More »

Program Sessions

In-Person

Closed Sessions

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