Water and Sanitation From the Roman Empire to Today

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

The Roman Empire’s water system was one of the most extensive and sophisticated in the ancient world and played a critical role in the growth and expansion of the Roman Empire. Specific components included aqueducts, pipe networks, fountains, cisterns for water storage, and an extensive sewer system. In this class we will use the backdrop of the Roman urban water cycle to learn the basics of water sourcing, water quality, fluid flow, and water and wastewater treatment. By the end of this course, students will be able to explain the engineered urban water cycle; apply basic engineering principles for water and wastewater conveyance, storage, and treatment; and understand health impacts associated with drinking water and sanitation and the application of risk assessment for engineering decision-making related to drinking water and sanitation.