Water Ecosystems course in the Tijuana–San Diego Region
Water Ecosystems in the Tijuana–San Diego Region is an 8-week hybrid course designed to explore the environmental challenges facing our binational coastline.
Students and community members from both Tijuana and San Diego dive into the science of coastal ecosystems through a blend of online learning and in-person fieldwork.
Learn by Doing
Participants will test water samples, investigate erosion patterns, and collaborate in cross-border teams.
Each week builds students skills in ecological analysis, water quality monitoring, and problem-solving.
From pollution tracking to designing sustainability campaigns, this course brings Water Ecosystems to life through real-world analysis and community impacts.
This course is part of the educational offerings of the Binational Institute, a program designed to foster environmental leadership and scientific collaboration between students from both sides of the border.
Course Modules
The course is structured into 8 weekly modules, combining theory, fieldwork, and teamwork. The program ends with a capstone project: students co-develop actionable strategies to improve coastal resilience and water health. Projects may include technical prototypes, policy proposals, or awareness campaigns.
Coastal Ecosystems & the Binational Context
Learning about shared coastal habitats, ecological interdependence, and environmental governance.
Coastal Erosion
Understanding the causes, consequences, and solutions to coastal erosion across both sides of the border.
Water Quality & Pollution
Exploring pollution sources and their impact on ecosystems and public health in the Tijuana River watershed.
Binational Conservation Strategies
Analyzing environmental policies and cooperation models to manage shared water resources.
Water Quality Testing Protocols
Learning methods to evaluate water quality using real environmental indicators.
Fieldwork in Water Sampling
Applying your knowledge by collecting, testing, and analyzing water samples from home, rivers, and beaches.
Cross-Border Team Collaboration
Form binational teams to brainstorm innovative solutions to address coastal challenges.
Final Project & Presentations
Developing and presenting actionable environmental solutions with measurable impact.
Be Part of the Change
Whether you’re a student, educator, or community leader, this course will empower you to understand and protect your ecosystems and water resources.
The course is completely free and available in an asynchronous format, which means you can take it at your own pace and on your own schedule—no matter where you are.
Enroll today, explore the future of Water Ecosystems.
Bilingual Water Courses for Border Communities
The Binational Institute offers online and in-person courses that address water and environmental challenges across the U.S.–Mexico border.
Learn from Experts Across Borders
Our courses provide scientific-based tools to promote water sustainability. You’ll gain actionable knowledge to apply in your community or organization.
Explore our full catalog and start learning today.
