Overview

This Specialization examines the complex relationship between wetlands, human activity, and conservation policy. Learners will explore strategies to mitigate human impact, analyze wetland regulations from local to global levels, and consider conservation through social and ecological perspectives. By the end, participants will be equipped with the knowledge to navigate policy frameworks and develop sustainable solutions for wetland protection.

Syllabus

Course 1: Mitigating the Human Impact on Wetlands
Course 2: Wetland Regulation: Local to Global Perspective
Course 3: Wetland Conservation Through a Human Lens

Courses

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12 hours 26 minutes
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This course will have a special focus on the impacts caused by humans on wetlands and the efforts made to conserve and restore these systems. The learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the laws and regulations applicable to wetland conservation. They will also learn to evaluate the techniques used in restoration management and planning. Through case studies and interviews with managers, the learners will examine the essential elements for success and the limitations faced in practical restoration efforts. This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs, including the graduate-level certificate, "Wetland Science and Conservation" that can be stacked toward an online master's degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit ACES Online at acesonline.illinois.edu.
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11 hours 15 minutes
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This course explores wetland conservation through legal, ecological, and policy perspectives. Learners will examine the regulatory roles of federal, state, and local governments, with a focus on the Clean Water Act (CWA) and Waters of the United States (WOTUS). Global conservation efforts, including the Ramsar Convention, will be analyzed in relation to sustainability objectives. Through case studies, learners will assess factors shaping wetland management, the role of community participation, and adaptation to climate change. The course also evaluates engineering-based and hybrid solutions for enhancing wetland resilience. By the end, learners will develop a critical understanding of wetland conservation challenges and strategies in both U.S. and international contexts. This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit: https://acesonline.illinois.edu/.
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9 hours 23 minutes
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Wetland conservation is not just an ecological challenge—it is also deeply shaped by social, political, and cultural factors. This course explores how competing stakeholder interests, policy frameworks, and governance structures influence wetland management and restoration. Learners will examine the role of public, private, and social sectors in conservation efforts, as well as strategies for fostering equitable and culturally sensitive stakeholder engagement. Through case studies, the course highlights both successful collaborations and the consequences of stakeholder exclusion in environmental decision-making. By the end, learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of how human dynamics shape wetland conservation outcomes. This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit: https://acesonline.illinois.edu/.