Microplastic Pollution and Ecotoxicology

Microplastic pollution has garnered much attention in recent years, yet much is still unknown regarding the extent and threat posed by this pollutant. We will review the recent and seminal literature focusing on the distribution of plastic pollution and the negative effects on the environment. Our goal is to build a strong foundation of knowledge about this emerging field and recognize the current gaps in understanding its effects on wildlife. Although this is not a laboratory class, methods and materials on how to sample, isolate, and quantify microplastic pollution in various samples will be reviewed and demonstrated for researchers interested in collecting measurements in the field.

This is a 1-credit equivalent academic course (16 contact hrs + additional work) where you learn at your own pace over 3 months.

Summer: June 2 - Aug 24, 2025 (Early bird ends May 4th)

*Early bird saves $75

None

• Extent of MP pollution in sediment, water, and soil

• Routes of MP Exposure in the environment

• Sampling techniques for MPs in water, soil, and animal tissues

• MP Toxicology in Wildlife

• Size and density separation of MP samples

• Quantification of MP in samples

• Research proposals and oral arguments

FORMAT:

• 3 months of access to course materials as you work at your own pace 

• Get instructor support for the 3-month term via email, discussion threads, group meetings, and one-on-one appointments

• After working through the course materials, set up an optional meeting with the instructor to discuss your own personal project from work or school

CONTINUING EDUCATION:

• 16 CEUs with The Wildlife Society

• 4 CEUs in Category I(a): Scientific Education and Training with the Ecological Society of America

• Go to our Continuing Education Page for more details

CERTIFICATIONS:

• Earn 1 credit toward certification as an Ecologist (at any level) with Ecological Society of America

• Earn 1 credit toward certification as an Associate/Certified Wildlife Biologist® (at any level) with The Wildlife Society

• Go to our Academic Credit Page for details

FORMAT:

• 12 months of access to course materials as you work at your own pace 

• Get instructor support for the 3-month term via email, discussion threads, group meetings, and one-on-one appointments

• After working through the course materials, set up an optional meeting with the instructor to discuss your own personal project from work or school

CONTINUING EDUCATION:

• 16 CEUs with The Wildlife Society

• 4 CEUs in Category I(a): Scientific Education and Training with the Ecological Society of America

• Go to our Continuing Education Page for more details

CERTIFICATIONS:

• Earn 1 credit toward certification as an Ecologist (at any level) with Ecological Society of America

• Earn 1 credit toward certification as an Associate/Certified Wildlife Biologist® (at any level) with The Wildlife Society

• Earn 1 credit towards a professional certificate in Applied Quantitative Ecology with CWS

• Earn an additional 1-2 academic credits with an Applied Project

• Go to our Academic Credit Page for details