Marine & Freshwater Biology BSc/MSci
Marine & Freshwater Biology 3B BIOL4066
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Biodiversity One Health Vet Med
- Credits: 60
- Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
- Typically Offered: Semester 2
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
This course will present a broad coverage of Marine & Freshwater Biology. Specific topics may include:
■ animal physiology
■ parasite biology
■ ecological and developmental biology
■ quantitative approaches to ecology including experimental design and data analysis
■ designing and implementing a mini research project relative to aquatic ecosystems
Timetable
The course will consist of lectures, field work, laboratories and tutorials as arranged (the timetable varies from week to week).
There will be a short residential field course in March.
Excluded Courses
BIOL4138 Zoology 3B
Assessment
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 research papers, a poster presentation and an oral research proposal.
Main Assessment In: April/May
Course Aims
The aims of the course are:
■ To provide students with a broad-based knowledge and understanding of Marine & Freshwater Biology;
■ To further advance laboratory and field techniques in Marine & Freshwater Biology;
■ To develop skills relating to independent and critical thinking and forming research hypotheses;
■ To provide opportunities to further improve written and oral communication skills;
■ To advance skills related to quantitative analysis of data relevant to Marine & Freshwater Biology.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
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 numerical or logical nature in the context of this understanding;
■ Apply practical skills in fundamental techniques in Marine & Freshwater Biology 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;
■ Form a research question on a Marine & Freshwater Biology related topic;
■ Design and carry out a small scale research project.