Corequisite majors: Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology major
This Specialisation provides a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts in evolution and ecology, as they apply to both plants and animals. The courses offered give students the opportunity to extend their knowledge in the areas of behavioural ecology, marine ecology and zoology, and to grapple with the controversial issues in evolutionary biology. A solid grounding in evolution and ecology are essential for students intending to pursue higher degrees in these areas. In addition, students who have an interest in field based careers (rangers, ecological surveyors and consultants, field research) or in wildlife management (conservation and environmental policy, sustainable resource management) require the understanding of field research techniques and ecological and evolutionary theory on which these professions are based.
Learning Outcomes
Describe and explain, in depth, the fundamental concepts in evolution and ecology and identify areas of uncertainty and controversy in the discipline.
Classify, compare and describe plant and animal species and describe the processes involved in their evolutionary and ecological interactions.
Access and critically assess the primary research literature in the field.
Formulate testable hypotheses for evolutionary and ecological problems based on their conceptual understanding and design experiments to test the hypotheses.
Apply the practical skills necessary to carry out research, based on their experiences of field studies, and /or working in a research team.
Deploy statistical techniques of analysis within one or more areas of ecological research, including the use of databases and statistical packages.
Be conversant with the specialist terms that are used by evolutionary and ecological scientists, as well as being able to communicate information and concepts clearly and concisely to interested lay persons.
Other Information
This Specialisation has a general evolution and ecology focus, and also includes courses specifically relating to animal evolution and ecology. Students who have a specific interest in plants should compare this specialisation with the Plant Science Specialisation that is offered.
For students taking BIOL3208 or BIOL3209 as part of this specialisation, the research project must be in the field of Evolution and Ecology.
Students should seek further course advice from the academic convener of this specialisation
Back to the topRequirements
NOTE: This specialisation may only be undertaken in conjunction with the Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology major
This specialisation requires the completion of 24 units, which must consist of:
24 units from the completion of courses from the following list:
BIOL3109 - Ecological and Evolutionary Developmental Biology (6 units)
BIOL3116 - Marine Conservation Ecology (6 units)
BIOL3131 - Behavioural Ecology (6 units)
BIOL3132 - Field Studies in Behavioural Ecology (6 units)
BIOL3142 - Biomedical Parasitology (6 units)
BIOL3178 - Recovering Threatened Species and Ecosystems (6 units)
BIOL3193 - Bacteria and Health: An Ecological and Evolutionary Perspective (6 units)
BIOL3206 - Evolution of Biodiversity (6 units)
BIOL3208 - Biology Research Project (6 units)
BIOL3209 - Biology Research Project (12 units)
BIOL3210 - Appreciating Parasites: from Molecules to Ecosystems (6 units)
BIOL3213 - Australian Wildlife (6 units)
BIOL3303 - Advanced Field Studies in Functional Ecology (6 units)
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