Overview of the Certification Program

The Society of Wetland Scientists (SWS) was founded to advance scientific and educational understanding of wetlands. To support these goals and strengthen professional standards, SWS established a separate non-profit corporation: the Society of Wetland Scientists Professional Certification Program, Inc. (SWSPCP).

This program certifies education and professional experience in wetland science for ecologists, hydrologists, soil scientists, educators, agency staff, consultants, and others who practice in this field. It also helps the public identify qualified professionals to assess and manage wetland resources worldwide.

About Certification

• Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS)
  Recognizes individuals who meet both the educational and professional experience requirements. Certification indicates that a wetland scientist has the academic background, practical experience, and commitment to ethical standards expected by their peers.
• Wetland Professional In Training (WPIT)
  A preliminary step for individuals who have completed the required education but have not yet met the experience requirements. Certification is voluntary and has no official legal standing with government agencies. However, it provides valuable professional recognition and credibility, especially in multi-disciplinary work environments.

Educational & Experience Requirements

• Minimum Degree: Bachelor’s (BA or BS)
• Coursework:
  • 15 semester hours in biological sciences
  • 15 semester hours in physical sciences
  • 6 semester hours in quantitative areas
• Additional for PWS: 15 semester hours of wetland-related courses
• Experience (for PWS): At least 5 years of professional wetland science practice, demonstrating applied technical knowledge of wetland resources.

Global Scope

Currently, SWSPCP is the only internationally recognized wetland-specific certification program. While some countries or regions have local certification options, SWSPCP provides broad recognition and complements national, state, provincial, and local programs.

Resources

• What is a PWS or WPIT:
  Download promotional flyers:
  العربية | 中国人 | English | Français | 日本 | 한국어 | Espanol | Português | Русский
• Applications:
  Forms and instructions are available on this website. https://www.wetlandcert.org/forms.html

For additional information, contact:
Society of Wetland Scientists
Professional Certification Program
2800 W. Higgins Rd. Suite 440
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
Toll Free: 877.226.9902
Fax: 847.885.8393

Executive Administrator
Adrianna Borczyk
Kindly contact me through Email.

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Society of Wetland Scientists Professional Certification Program