Print Syllabus

Syllabus

BI1301 Applied Population Ecology, 15.0 Credits

Tillämpad populationsekologi

Subjects

Forest Science Biology Biology Forest science

Education cycle

Master’s level

Advanced study in the main field

A1N

Grading scale

Language

English

Prior knowledge

Knowledge at basic level equivalent to 120 credits including

- 60 credits Biology including 15 credits Ecology or

- 60 credits Forest Science including 15 credits Ecology or

- 60 credits Natural Resource Management including 15 credits Ecology or

- 60 credits Environmental Sciences including 15 credits Ecology or

and

- English 6

Objectives

The aim of the course is to cover theoretical foundations of population ecology, and important applications of population ecology to solve real-world problems.

After completing the course the student will be able to:

• Have an in-depth understanding of many of the applications of population ecology, especially with regard to sustainable use of harvested animal populations and the conservation of small populations.

• Critically evaluate published studies, identify what data and studies are needed to solve management problems or conservation challenges.

• Perform all steps in the application of population ecology to selected problems, including use of the published scientific literature, data collection, data analysis, and use of the data in various models to understand and predict population development.

• Communicate their conclusions in written form.

Content

Important theoretical concepts of population ecology are included in lectures and assigned readings to reach the course objectives and to ensure a solid foundation of population ecology, but the course focuses on the many important applications of population ecology to solve real world problems (with in-depth considerations of selected aspects).

The course addresses the sustainable use of harvested animal populations and specific difficulties related to conserving less common or endangered species by considering the demographic and genetic problems posed by small and/or fragmented populations. Hence, in both lectures and exercises, the course covers the population genetics, structure, demography, dynamics and stability of populations. Compulsory exercises occur.

Selected methods for obtaining information required for decision-making in conservation and management (e.g. assessments of demographic structure and population size, etc.) are also covered. Furthermore, in computer labs and assignments students will analyze data and use it in models to gain a deeper understanding of population ecology and predicting the risk of extinction or population changes under various conditions.

Regarding general skills, students will thus develop their skills in information retrieval (i.e. the published scientific literature), critically evaluating it (including any gaps in knowledge), analyzing data and using it in models, and communicating their conclusions in written form.

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, approved compulsory assignments and participation in compulsory parts.

• 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.

Additional information

The course is a part of the Master’s Programme in the Management of Fish and Wildlife Populations but is open to other students.



Students following the Forest Science programme at SLU meet the requirements of 15 credits in Ecology by the courses given over the first two years of the programme. The requirement of 15 credits in Ecology can also be met by the course SG0251 Forest Ecology 15 credits.



SLU is environmentally certified according to ISO 14001. A large part of our courses cover knowledge and skills that contribute positively to the environment. To further strengthen this, we have specific environmental goals for the education. Students are welcome to suggest actions regarding the course’s content and implementation that lead to improvements for the environment. For more information, see webpage www.slu.se.

Responsible department

Department of Wildlife, Fish, & Environmental Studies