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FHEQ level

This course is set at Level 7 (Masters) in the national Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.

Course learning outcomes

Demonstrate a systematic and conceptual understanding of biological phenomena and their explanations at a variety of levels, from molecular processes and genetics to organismal biology and ecosystems, that is at or informed by the forefront of defined aspects of the discipline

Demonstrate systematic understanding and detailed knowledge of the diversity, classification and evolutionary biology of life on Earth, and explain how principles of evolutionary biology underpin ecology, conservation and sustainability.

Demonstrate systematic understanding and detailed knowledge of the interactions between organisms and their environment including knowledge of population processes, their dynamics and interactions of community structure and biodiversity, and to show an appreciation of the dynamic properties of ecosystems.

Demonstrate systematic understanding of the relationship between ecological science and conservation practice and show an appreciation of the way in which conservation biology draws upon information from across earth, life and social sciences.

Demonstrate knowledge of the current state of research and understanding in ecology and related disciplines.

Demonstrate an ability to access, synthesise, accurately deploy and critically evaluate ecological information from a variety of sources, including experimental data and primary literature, and an appreciation of the uncertainty, ambiguity and limits of the current state of knowledge. Demonstrate an understanding of policy issues on human interactions with natural populations and ecosystems, including biodiversity, climate change, habitat modification, pollution, exploitation and conservation.

Be able to apply the methods and techniques learnt to plan, execute and present an independent piece of project work, involving data collection or evaluation of the primary scientific literature, within a supported framework

Demonstrate basic safe competencies in a range of practical field and laboratory techniques relevant to ecology, conservation and earth sciences including data collection in the field, GIS and analysis and interpretation of those data.

To be able to address ethical issues and the impact on society of advances in ecology and the wider biosciences.

Marshal evidence in support of arguments as well as critically evaluate arguments presented to them.

Show competence appropriate to an honours graduate (FHEQ 'H' level) in written and oral presentation, numeracy and the use of standard C&IT packages.

Work effectively in teams and have demonstrated skills in identifying and working co-operatively towards targets.

Originality and self-direction in the application of ecological knowledge and practical understanding of techniques of research to create and interpret knowledge, tackle and solve problems, and deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively.

Demonstrate oral and written communication skills needed to present ecological and environmental information as a scientific paper and research seminar.

Full-time course composition