Graduate Studies in Environmental Engineering & International Dev.

[Sidiki]

Hi all,

I wanted to talk about WASH, and water and sanitation engineering. I'm particularly interested in WASH from an international development perspective. I have a B.S. degree in physics, and am currently in the Peace Corps, with the intention of joining an Environmental Engineering Masters program when I come back to the states, focusing on water and waste treatment.

I have been looking at a lot of programs, and I am a bit worried. Rare internet access means that the research I've been able to do is pretty rudimentary, but while looking for programs that focus on how water and development coincide I have noticed that there seem to be many more programs that want to look at the environmental side of things (naturally enough). Surface hydrology over building latrines, if that makes sense. UC Berkeley seems to be the exception to this- their program seems explicitly geared towards development, especially with their new $20 million grant from USAID to build a "developmental engineering" program. That is exactly what I am looking for: departments who are explicitly looking at how innovation and application (re: watsan) can make direct differences in the lives of the poor. I want to have the qualifications to treat peoples water properly before I come back to my PC country and start trying to sustainably change things.

Unfortunately, UC Berkeley's Environmental Engineering program is ranked at #1. Especially as a
"transfer" with a physics degree, and a solid but not stellar undergraduate gpa (3.65), I certainly cannot peg all my hopes on one fantastic program. I'd like to know if you all know of programs that have similar interests to what I've explained above. As I'm an outsider to the field, I would also greatly appreciate any advice or perspective you all can give me on the intersection between watsan engineering and development. For example, what educational path is most valued? What is employment typically like (big contractors? NGOs? Government? ...Social Entrepreneurs?)? What experiences and frustrations have you had in this field? Does the education properly prepare you for industry, or are joint degrees more desirable (say with pubpol programs)? What else can you tell me about environmental engineering, in general? Does being a physics "transfer" substantially weaken my case? What about my direct experiences in development during my time with the Peace Corps?

I realize this is a niche request. Nonetheless, I hope to get some quality answers, and if there is any place on the internet to get them, this would probably be it. If my inquiries could be better answered elsewhere, please direct me there. Thanks.

~Sidiki

 

[TonyG]

Dear Sidiki,

It's great to hear that you are interested in pursuing a career in WASH and water and sanitation engineering from an international development perspective. Your background in physics will definitely be an asset in this field, as understanding the physical and chemical properties of water is crucial in designing and implementing effective solutions.

From my experience, there are many programs out there that focus on both the environmental and developmental aspects of WASH. Some universities, such as the University of Michigan and the University of North Carolina, have dedicated departments or programs specifically focused on WASH and international development. Others, like the University of California, Davis and the University of Colorado, have strong water and environmental engineering departments that also offer courses and opportunities to work on WASH projects.

In terms of employment, there are a variety of options available. Many NGOs and non-profits work on WASH projects around the world, and they often hire engineers to design and implement these projects. Governments, especially in developing countries, also often have departments or agencies dedicated to water and sanitation, and they may hire engineers to work on projects or oversee infrastructure. Social entrepreneurs, as you mentioned, are also becoming more prevalent in this field, using innovative solutions to address WASH issues. It's important to research and network to find the specific opportunities that align with your interests and goals.

In terms of educational paths, a degree in environmental engineering or a related field is highly valued in the WASH field. However, there are also joint degree programs, such as an MPP/MPA and environmental engineering, that can provide a unique and interdisciplinary perspective. Your direct experiences in development with the Peace Corps will also be highly valuable and will give you a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in this field.

In terms of frustrations, I have found that funding and sustainability are often major challenges in WASH projects. It is important to consider the long-term maintenance and operation of water and sanitation systems, as well as the community's ability to afford and maintain them. This is where the intersection of engineering and development becomes crucial, as solutions must be both technically sound and socially and culturally appropriate.

I hope this information is helpful to you in your search for the right program and career path. Keep researching and networking, and don't be afraid to reach out to professionals in the field for advice and guidance. Best of luck in your journey!