Student Projects in PLAN 597
Course Description
Water is an essential resource for all societies. However the methods used for managing, purifying, distributing, and disposing of water varies greatly around the world. This course will cover the history, science, economics and politics of water management. We will review many of the longstanding challenges such as equitable access to improved water sources, and explore more recent debates such as linkages between water use and energy policy. The course is designed to prepare students to work in government agencies, international organizations or the private sector in water related topics.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the course, students should have a firm grasp of the major water challenges confronting communities around the world in both urban and rural contexts. The course will also teach students to analyze quantitative and spatial data sets relevant for water managers. An emphasis will also be placed on written and oral communication. Those who complete the course should be prepared to collaborate with other water specialists including hydrologists, civil engineers, ecologists or economists. Students should also understand the role that planners may have in constructing technologically appropriate and environmentally sensitive solutions to water related problems.