Entry requirements

120 credits including (1) 60 credits in biology and 30 credits in chemistry or 30 credits in earth science, or (2) 90 credits in biology, in both cases, including a second course of 15 credits in ecology or limnology.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student should be able to

• describe the Baltic Sea ecological system and different biotopes and processes governing them
• analyse the ecological consequences of the use and exploitation of natural resources, such as fishing, in the Baltic Sea Region
• describe the proliferation of pollutants and nutrients and analyse the effects in the Baltic Sea ecosystem
• present and explain the environmental impact of shipping in the Baltic Sea
• assess and compare different management models for the Baltic Sea ecosystem and for its natural resources
• independently plan, conduct and analyse experimental investigations

Content

The course provides an in-depth description of ecology, biodiversity and natural resources in different biotopes in the Baltic Sea. The course addresses how, for example, eutrophication, transport, fishing, and climate change affect the Baltic Sea area and especially its coastal regions. The course also provides examples of laws and international agreements in the subject area. In addition, examples of constructive solutions to environmental problems within river basins, coastal and offshore will be discussed. The course includes a field period with practical exercises in species and biotope knowledge, sampling in different environments and experimental investigations.

Instruction

Instruction consists of lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions, field work, and group work.

Assessment

The course is examined through a written exam (5 credits), participation in seminars and laboratory sessions (5 credits), and participation in field exercises and group work (5 credits)