Water and Sanitation Infrastructure in Developing Countries

Access to clean water and safe sanitation is one of the most critical development challenges of our time. This text-based course provides a comprehensive introduction to the planning, engineering, and policy decisions behind water and waste management in low- and middle-income countries. You will progress from core concepts to practical implementation strategies, preparing you to contribute to real-world development solutions. By completing this written curriculum, you will understand how to evaluate local water resources, select appropriate technologies, and navigate the complex institutional and financial structures that determine long-term project success. What you'll learn: - Understand the core technical, social, and economic principles of water and sanitation infrastructure - Evaluate decentralized and centralized technologies suitable for diverse urban and rural contexts - Analyze the financial models, tariff structures, and policy frameworks that ensure project sustainability - Assess the impacts of climate change and rapid urbanization on municipal water security - Design community-engaged planning strategies that address local cultural and environmental needs - Practice evaluating real-world case studies to identify why infrastructure projects succeed or fail The course begins with foundational definitions, historical context, and the global policy landscape of public health and development. You will then explore technical systems, financial planning, and community-led governance models through structured, text-focused modules and analytical exercises. This course is designed for beginners, aspiring urban planners, development practitioners, and public policy students who want to build a solid foundation in infrastructure planning without prior engineering experience. Start reading today to build the foundational knowledge needed to address global water and sanitation challenges.