The Montana University System Board of Regents approved Montana State University - Northern’s request to remove the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Water Quality Technology from moratorium status at the March, 2009 meeting in Helena.

Provost Joe Callahan stated that he “wanted Northern to have the degree reinstated in light of the anticipated projects and activity in the Water/Wastewater arena.” “The federal stimulus act along with on-going Montana water issues may call for additional demand for operators and employees with adequate training related to water quality issues,” according to Callahan.

The water and wastewater treatment industry is facing many retirements and changes in the near future. MSU-Northern is trying to be ahead of the curve for serving training needs as well as a supplying qualified operators, lab technicians, managers and other professionals.

Northern is developing an advisory committee for the program made up of managers and operators in the field as well as other professionals. This board will advise them on curriculum content and will make suggestions on how to deliver this degree from a distance using the internet, and possible on-site workshops.

This degree is a 2-year Associate of Applied Science Degree with a Major in Water Quality Technology: Environmental Health. It is the minimum degree required to work in some water and wastewater treatment facilities.

Interested individuals are encouraged to contact MSU-Northern Admissions Office at 1-800-662-6132 ext. 3704 for additional information.