Modelling is becoming increasingly used in design, optimisation, troubleshooting, research and management of sanitation systems. Various models have been developed over the last two decades.

This course focuses on presentation the urban water cycle followed by modelling of urban drainage and sewerage and a selection of sanitation systems for which models have been developed.

For each system the state of the art of the process will be provided as well as the model achievements so far.

Case studies will be presented to illustrate the applicability of the models, and assignments using AQUASIM software (www.aquasim.eawag.ch/) will be done by course participants to apply the gained knowledge for a pre-defined situation.

Learning objectives

After completion of the course, the participants:

have an understanding of urban drainage, sewerage and treatment processes and systems;
understand the possibilities, potential and mechanisms of a mathematical model for research, design or optimization for wastewater collection and wastewater treatment systems;
select the appropriate model and simulation software for a specific case.

Target group

Modelling Sanitation Systems

The course is designed for professionals actively involved in the urban water cycle and/or wastewater treatment or those who have an interest in model application from a research point of view.

Basic knowledge of urban drainage and sewerage, wastewater treatment processes, biochemistry and microbiology is required for successful completion of the course.

Course content

Introduction to modelling of Sanitation Systems
Z. Vojinovic, M. Henze, C.M. Hooijmans
Urban drainage and sewerage
A. Pathirana, D. Brdjanovic
Activated sludge systems
D. Brdjanovic, M.C.M. van Loosdrecht, C. Fall
Membrane Bioreactors (MBR)
D. Saroj
Anaerobic digestion
J.B. van Lier, N. Mahmoud
Biofilm systems
E. Morgenroth
Ponds and wetlands
D. Rousseau, C.M. Hooijmans, L. Sah

Additional information

Participants complete the internet based curriculum in a period of about four months with a workload of 140 hours. A participant is expected to spend about 8 hours per week on average through reading, discussion and assignments. The curriculum consists of narrated or video recorded lectures available for those registered for the online course, and of lecture handouts and assignments.

The course includes access to the course materials as well as individual guidance and mentoring during the course. The maximum number of participants is 20. The course material is also provided compiled in a DVD package. Most of the material is also used for teaching in the Sanitary Engineering specialisation of the UNESCO-IHE’s Master Program in Municipal Water and Infrastructure. Discounts apply as follows: 30% to UNESCO-IHE alumni, 10% to UN family staff members, 10% to groups of 5 or more – provided that the courses start at the same time and group application has been sent.