1. Handbook
  2. Bachelor of Science
  3. Majors, Minors and Specialisations
  4. Ecosystem Science
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Ecosystem Science

Bachelor of ScienceMajorYear: 2024

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Overview

The Ecosystem Science major focuses on the science and technologies associated with the function and management of ecosystems, via two specialisations in urban ecosystems and forest ecosystems. The major integrates knowledge from a range of disciplines including plant sciences, soil science, hydrology, ecology, design, engineering and the social sciences, by enabling students to complete a sequence of subjects in each specialisation. Students will also complete an integrated capstone subject in which they develop skills in site analysis, the collection, integration and analysis of data, and the evaluation and presentation of management plans. Students will gain to experience prepare them for the workplace by participating in group research projects and working groups.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this major, students should be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the science underpinning ecosystem processes and function
  • Describe the key environmental, social and economic challenges associated with the design and management of urban or forest ecosystems, including climate change, resource considerations, biodiversity conservation, urban densification, cultural values and management practices
  • Apply research and design skills to problem solving in ecosystem science, including the collection, analysis, interpretation and presentation of data and information
  • Quantify, analyse and evaluate strategies and/or technologies used in urban or forest ecosystem management from biological, socio-ecological and technical perspectives
  • Articulate the roles, functions and outcomes of ecosystem-management practices across disciplines, including the physical and social sciences
  • Communicate an understanding of the science, technology and current issues in ecosystem science and management through academic, industry and community engagement activities.

Last updated: 29 November 2024

Structure

50 credit points

Students are required to complete all requirements in one stream

Urban Ecosystems specialisation

All of

Code Name Study period Credit Points
EVSC30007 Landscape Ecosystem Project
Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
ENST30003 Green Infrastructure Technologies
Semester 2 (On Campus - Burnley)
 12.5
FRST30003 Urban Forest Ecosystems
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
EVSC30006 Ecology of Urban Landscapes
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5

Forest Ecosystems specialisation

All of

Code Name Study period Credit Points
EVSC30007 Landscape Ecosystem Project
Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
FRST30001 Forest Systems
February (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5

AND

Two of

Code Name Study period Credit Points
BOTA30004 Vegetation Management and Conservation
Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
BOTA30006 Field Botany
Summer Term (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
ECOL30005 Applied Ecology
Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
EVSC30003 Environmental Risk Assessment
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
FRST30003 Urban Forest Ecosystems
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
ENST30004 Nature, Conservation and Society
Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5

Last updated: 29 November 2024