Certificate Overview:
Clean water is a common topic discussed in many classrooms and research laboratories around this campus. Yet, the complexity of societal issues related to water shortages, hygiene, and quality, which influence water consumption and its role in human health, highlights the importance of increased interdisciplinary dialogue and problem-solving capabilities. The certificate reflects the acquisition of this interdisciplinary knowledge as related to “water and health.”
This certificate program is available to graduate students who are affiliated with the Water INTERface (WI) IGEP – at either the MS or PhD level. Students who successfully complete the 9 credits of WI IGEP coursework are eligible to apply to receive the certificate. Students may be affiliated with any department with WI IGEP mentorship agreement by a certificated WI IGEP Faculty (see website).
The IGEP is a non-degree granting program, thus students have a home department (i.e., that of their graduate advisor) with specific degree requirements. The water (WI IGEP) graduate certificate reflects the successful completion of the interdisciplinary coursework (including a 2 credit hour independent research project), which includes content related to four interdisciplinary research thematic areas:
· Public Perception: public perception of technological options and advancements for providing clean water resources (water treatment);
· Risks: risks (perceived or real) associated with contaminants and water-borne infectious diseases in private homes, public water systems, and commercial food processing facilities;
· Chemistry: role of water chemistry (e.g., mineral composition) in delivering functional qualities such as flavor and bioavailable nutrients;
· Health: role of water consumption in health, wellness, and mitigation of mineral deficiencies and diseases.