To be read in conjunction with the program of study requirements for the

 

Aims

The program of study aims to provide students with a broad-based foundation in science together with the ability to acquire extensive subject knowledge in the disciplines of palaeontology, palaeoecology and vertebrate evolution. It also aims to develop a range of transferable research, analytical and communication skills including the capacity to:

  • understand and apply relevant scientific principles in the areas of palaeontology and vertebrate evolution.
  • employ scientific methodologies such as experimentation and data analysis in the areas of palaeontology and vertebrate evolution
  • interpret and present scientific information regarding palaeontology and evolution, including communicating effectively with a variety of audiences in written and spoken forms
  • critically analyse and evaluate information relevant to palaeontology and evolution and solve problems
  • appreciate the multidisciplinary nature of the studies of palaeontology and vertebrate evolution and engage positively with people and ideas beyond their own discipline area
  • appreciate the societal and ethical contexts of palaeontology and vertebrate evolution and the profesional practice of organismal biologists
  • work independently and take responsibility for updating and adapting their knowledge and skills
  • work effectively, cooperatively and productively within a team.

The major provides the foundations that will underpin ongoing professional development, preparing graduates for further study in disciplines related to palaeontology and evolutionary studies or for a career in a field related to palaeontology and vertebrate evolution or in other areas where the range of skills and knowledge acquired is needed or desirable. 

Learning outcomes

On completion of the major students will be able to:

  • demonstrate familiarity with and critically apply current theories, subject content, professional methodologies, ethical frameworks and research procedures relevant to studies of palaeontology and vertebrate evolution
  • understand and describe the processes through which current knowledge about the areas of palaeontology and vertebrate evolution and diversity was developed
  • analyse and critically evaluate ideas, data and information and apply relevant scientific principles to solve problems by, for example, creating hypotheses, testing theories and predictions, designing and conducting experiments and statistically analysing data
  • undertake studies relating to palaeontology, palaeoecology and vertebrate evolution in both laboratory and field contexts
  • communicate their findings and present information clearly to a variety of audiences in written and spoken form
  • appreciate the multidisciplinary nature of palaeontology and vertebrate evolution and the relationships between these areas and other disciplines
  • work and learn independently and appreciate the need for continuing professional development
  • contribute effectively as part of a team in order to achieve common goals.

Program of study

Major - Vertebrate Palaeontology - Year 1 topics

22.5 units comprising:

Core - Year 1 Topics

 BIOD1102  Introduction to Biodiversity and Conservation  (4.5 units)
 BIOL1101  Evolution of Biological Diversity  (4.5 units)
 BIOL1102  Molecular Basis of Life  (4.5 units)
 EASC1101  Earth and Environmental Sciences  (4.5 units)
 STAT1122  Biostatistics  (4.5 units)

Major - Vertebrate Palaeontology - Year 2 topics

18 units comprising:

Core - Year 2 Topics

 BIOD2701  Biodiversity and Conservation  (4.5 units)
 BIOL2701  Experimental Design and Statistics for Biology  (4.5 units)
 BIOL2712  Animal Diversity  (4.5 units)
 ENVS2752  Geological Processes  (4.5 units)

Major - Vertebrate Palaeontology - Year 3 topics

18 units comprising:

Core - Year 3 Topics

 BIOD3701  Human Impacts and Biodiversity  (4.5 units)
 BIOL3703  Vertebrate Palaeontology  (4.5 units)
 EASC2702  Global Climate Change (4.5 units)
 ENVS3752  Geology of Australia  (4.5 units)