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Curtin University
Courses Handbook 2014

This handbook contains information for courses and units at Curtin in 2014.
Information for the previous year's courses and units is available at Courses Handbook 2013.

313907 v.1 Environmental Biology Double Degree Major (S&E)


Major/Stream Overview

This major/stream is part of a larger course. Information is specific to the major/stream, please refer to the course for more information.


This Environmental Biology double degree major has a strong practical emphasis, with students often being able to undertake work with members of the outside community, thus establishing a strong bridge between the University and potential employers. There is a requirement to participate in field trips for many of the course units. This gives students ample opportunity to observe organisms in their normal habitats, with the greater depth of understanding that this brings.



Major/Stream Entry and Completion Details

Mathematics 2C/2D and a science course of study level 3A/3B are desirable.



Major/Stream Organisation

Major/Stream Learning Outcomes

A graduate of this course can:

1. apply fundamental biological principles and concepts in theoretical, practical and vocational situations

2. explain and apply the scientific method

3. collect biological data and locate, extract and critically appraise existing scientific knowledge to analyse problems and formulate solutions

4. communicate biological information concisely and accurately using written, visual, and verbal means appropriate to the audience

5. employ new and established technologies to collect and interpret biological data; demonstrate competency in statistics, computing, and other relevant technologies, at an appropriate level

6. take responsibility for their personal educational development by applying independent study and time management skills

7. consider biological issues from a global perspective, recognising the importance of national and international standards for collecting and reporting data

8. respect and recognise the responsibilities of professional scientists in society, both nationally and internationally; value environmental, indigenous and other community perspectives

9. work independently and in teams to demonstrate employment ready skills such as negotiation, leadership, professional behaviour and ethical practices


Course Structure Hrs/Wk Credit
Year 1 Semester 1
312357 v.1   Cell Biology 101 5.0 25.0
307590 v.2   Statistical Data Analysis 101 3.0 12.5
310532 v.1   Statistical Data Analysis 102 3.0 12.5
  OR  
12165 v.2   Mathematics 133 4.0 12.5
  50.0
Year 1 Semester 2
313537 v.1   Biology 100 5.0 25.0
313500 v.1   Biological Computing 100 2.0 12.5
  SELECT OPTIONAL UNITS TO THE TOTAL VALUE OF:   12.5
  50.0
Year 2 Semester 1
312140 v.1   Zoology 201 5.0 25.0
8306 v.9   Quantitative Biology 201 5.0 25.0
314449 v.1   Biological Chemistry 110 6.0 25.0
  OR  
314451 v.1 *   Introduction to Chemistry 180 6.0 25.0
  75.0
Year 2 Semester 2
313501 v.1   Land and Water Resources 100 5.0 25.0
312395 v.2   Ecology 200 3.0 25.0
314000 v.1   Gene to Phenotype 200 5.0 25.0
  75.0
Year 3 Semester 1
312392 v.2   Botany 200 5.0 25.0
312396 v.1   Conservation Biology and Sustainability 201 5.5 25.0
  50.0
Year 3 Semester 2
312399 v.1   Ecotoxicology 202 4.0 25.0
312401 v.2   Animal and Plant Physiology 300 5.0 25.0
  50.0
Year 4 Semester 1
312387 v.1   Environmental Impact Assessment 301 4.0 25.0
314680 v.1   Habitat and Landform Mapping 300 4.0 25.0
  50.0
Year 4 Semester 2
312400 v.1   Biomonitoring 302 5.0 25.0
314536 v.1   Terrestrial and Marine Science Field Project 300 4.0 25.0
  50.0
Optional Units to Select from in Year 1 Semester 2 Hrs/Wk Credit
7318 v.6   Astronomy 101 2.0 12.5
7329 v.7   Planetary Science 101 2.0 12.5
1681 v.4   Materials and Technology 112 4.0 12.5
4949 v.2   Design for Small Craft 100 2.0 12.5
305541 v.2   Introduction to Forensic Science 101 2.0 12.5
307554 v.1 **   Science Communications 101 2.0 12.5

*    * Only for Students who have not completed Chemistry Level 3A/3B

**    BSc/BComm students must do this unit.





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