Entry requirements

120 credits including alt 1) 40 credit points/60 credits biology and 20 credit points/30 credits chemistry or 20 credit points/30 credits earth sciences. alt 2) 60 credit points/90 credits biology. In both cases furthermore Ecology MN1.

Learning outcomes

The general aim is that the student after the course should have advanced knowledge within ecology and conservation genetics to a large extent be able to use them in nature conservation applications.

On completion of the course, the student should be able to

• analyse the causes behind the vulnerability and extinction risks of small and large populations
• master models current unstructured and structured populations and metapopulations and with and without the following factors: Density dependency (positive and negative), environmental and demographic uncertainty and autocorrelation.
• account for models of genetic variation within and between populations
• explain the history, origin and the history of the boreal and nemoral forest of the cultural landscape and the ecology of the wetlands
• plan and carry out a demographic study and analyse by means of demographic models
• independent evaluate conservation assessments
• review scientific literature critically
• orally and present in writing own and others' material.

Content

The course comprises theories and concept of great importance to be able to tax the threat assessment for plants and animal, for example how genetic drift, inbreeding and inbreeding depression can influence the survival opportunities of threatened species. The course also focuses on population models of relevance for conservation problems. Under a project work, the students will analyse for example action programmes for threatened species or environments.

The course is based on the students ' previous knowledge in ecology and genetics and the advanced study and the labour market links are ensured through increased depth and independence and at exercises the students where apply the knowledge in work with nature conservation and sustainable development.

Instruction

The teaching is given in the form of lectures, seminars, computer exercises, calculation exercises, field trips, study visit, contacts with companies and public authorities and shorter and longer project work. Participation in seminars, computer exercises, calculation exercises, field trips, study visit and project work are compulsory.

Assessment

Modules: Theory 11 credits; Project 4 credits

The theory part is comprised by a written examination. The module project includes active participation in project work, field trips, seminars, computer-based laboratory sessions, calculation exercises and study visit and is examined through oral and/or written presentations.