This course examines how organisms interact with each other and their environment; from individuals, through to ecosystems. This will enable students to understand how biodiversity is essential to ecosystem functioning and how it will respond to environmental change-whether natural or anthropogenic.

2-3 hours of contact a week

None

None

Report (60%) e.g., a case study paper (on an ecological topic) presented using the author guidance given in an ecological journal, a report on an ecological issue, etc. [ILOs 1, 2 and 3]

Oral presentation (40%) - on an ecological topic. [ILOs 1, 2 and 3]

The course aims to:

1. Introduce students to some of the fundamental principles of theoretical ecology;

2. Explore the practical application of these ecological theories in global conservation projects;

3. Examine the effects of a changing environment on biodiversity.

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

1. Demonstrate an understanding of some of the fundamental principles of theoretical ecology;

2. Critically assess the practical application of these ecological theories in global conservation projects;

3. Identify and evaluate the effects of a changing environment on biodiversity.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.