Print Syllabus

Syllabus

BI1448 Fish and Wildlife Management, 15.0 Credits

Skötsel av vilt- och fiskpopulationer

Subjects

Biology

Education cycle

Master’s level

Advanced study in the main field

Second cycle, has second-cycle course/s as entry requirements
Master’s level (A1F)

Grading scale

Language

English

Prior knowledge

Knowledge equivalent to 120 credits including 60 credits in one of the following subjects:

- Biology including 15 credits Ecology or
- Forestry Science including 15 credits Ecology or
- Natural Resource Management including 15 credits Ecology or
- Environmental Science including 15 credits Ecolog

15 credits Ecology

30 credits Biology at advanced level

English 6

Objectives

The aim of the course is for students to acquire knowledge needed for the sustainable management of fish and wildlife with a focus on harvested or managed animal populations.

After completion of the course the student should be able to

• Efficiently find, critically evaluate, and synthesize published material from scientific and management sources, identify any gaps in the data needed for sound management and plan the research to get it.
• Plan the sustainable management of fish and wildlife species based on a consideration of their population biology, habitat requirements, predation, harvest, the goals of society, and other aspects.
• Communicate recommendations for the management of fish or wildlife populations at a level appropriate for professional managers and scientists.
• Effectively communicate their management recommendations and the basis for them to the public.

Content

Subject-related content

Through a combination of traditional lecturing, discussion-based activities, and self-directed learning, students will acquire knowledge of the sustainable harvesting and management of fish and wildlife. Selected case studies are used throughout the course to guide the learning of different management approaches/philosophies, with a focus on adaptive wildlife management and evidence-based conservation. Students will synthesize and apply knowledge on fundamental animal population biology (e.g., habitat needs, predation and foraging, reproduction), animal monitoring and management (e.g., harvesting strategies, techniques, equipment), while also considering human dimensions (e.g., stakeholder conflicts, legislative frameworks, international perspectives) to make decisions and recommendations for managing fish and wildlife. Students will be trained in how to effectively find the information in the literature and best practices for critically evaluating data. The course includes realistic exercises designed to help students develop proficiency in both oral and written communication to the public as well as to professionals because all four are needed for successful management of fish and wildlife populations. Seminars, exercises and study visits may be compulsory.

Teaching formats:

This course is taught using a mixture of teaching formats that include classroom-based learning and self-directed learning. In the classroom, students will acquire new information via traditional lecturing and discussion-based activities with their peers. Classes are taught by experts in the field, including select guest lectures by managers and excursions. Students will extend their knowledge via self-directed learning outside of the classroom, which will involve assigned readings from the primary literature and working on project work and assignments. Students will work both independently and in groups, and will be trained in both written and oral communication skills needed for future work as professionals in wildlife management. Select excursions (when possible) to relevant field sites help students connect the material learned about fish and wildlife management in class with its implementation in the real world. Lectures, assignments/project work, presentations, examinations, and excursions may be compulsory.

The course focuses on the following generic competencies:*

Synthesis of knowledge, communication, independence and teamwork.

The following course components are compulsory:*

Lectures, assignments/project work, presentations, examinations, and excursions may be compulsory.

Grading form

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Formats and requirements for examination

Approved written examination and or marked assignments and approved participation in compulsory exercises.

• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.

• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.

• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.

• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Responsible department

Department of Wildlife, Fish, & Environmental Studies