This course will present a broad coverage of Marine & Freshwater Biology. Specific topics may include:

■ field work on aquatic habitats

■ invertebrate and vertebrate biology

■ marine and freshwater ecology

■ molecular techniques

■ scientific writing

■ ecological applications and tools

The course will consist of lectures, laboratories and tutorials as arranged (the timetable varies from week to week).

In addition, there are two field courses in September and October - these may have residential or day field-work aspects.

BIOL4137 Zoology 3A

The course will be assessed by means of a 3-hour examination paper (60%) and in-course assessment (40%). The in-course assessment will include a fieldwork report, a poster presentation, an essay and a reflective statement.

The aims of the course are:

■ To provide students with a broad-based knowledge and understanding of Marine & Freshwater Biology;

■ To develop skills in laboratory and field techniques in Marine & Freshwater Biology;

■ To develop skills relating to the systematic acquisition of factual information and data;

■ To provide opportunities to improve written and oral communication skills.

By the end of this course, students will be able to: 

■ demonstrate a broad understanding of the central facts and the experimental basis of modern Marine & Freshwater Biology;

■ solve problems of a logical nature in the context of this understanding;

■ apply practical skills in fundamental techniques related to the degree and analyse and interpret results obtained from using these techniques;

■ demonstrate proficient communication skills by giving well-constructed oral and written presentations;

■ appraise original scientific literature and promote critical thinking in relation to information obtained and communicated.