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LocationDomesticInternational
National Marine Science Centre Coffs HarbourSession 3Session 3
OnlineSession 3Session 3

Unit description

Encompasses the advanced study of the biology and ecology of marine mammals. It is based on cutting-edge international research, but includes critical evaluation of case studies from the local region. Students will obtain a high-level understanding of management priorities vital for the continued survival and recovery of marine mammal populations around the world.

Unit content

Marine mammal taxonomy, anatomical adaptations and evolution.

Biology and ecology of marine mammals, including reproductive biology, migrations, physiology, acoustic communication, diet and behaviour.

A critical analysis of human threats to marine mammals, including the history of whaling and current threats.

A detailed synthesis of the global conservation status of marine mammals.

A critical evaluation of conservation planning for marine mammals.

Learning outcomes

Unit Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a unit. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes. The unit learning outcomes and graduate attributes are also the basis of evaluating prior learning.

GA1: Intellectual rigour, GA2: Creativity, GA3: Ethical practice, GA4: Knowledge of a discipline, GA5: Lifelong learning, GA6: Communication and social skills, GA7: Cultural competence
On completion of this unit, students should be able to:GA1GA2GA3GA4GA5GA6GA7
1demonstrate an advanced understanding of the taxonomy, anatomy, biology and ecology of marine mammalsIntellectual rigourKnowledge of a discipline
2demonstrate accurate species identifications of the common marine mammal occurring in Australian territorial watersIntellectual rigourKnowledge of a disciplineLifelong learning
3critically evaluate the main types of human interactions with marine mammals and how they can be managedIntellectual rigourKnowledge of a discipline
4demonstrate a high-level understanding of how marine mammals are managed and the legislation governing their protectionIntellectual rigourKnowledge of a discipline
5synthesise the risks posed to marine mammals by human activities such as whaling, fisheries, habitat loss, shipping, pollution, tourism and climate changeIntellectual rigourLifelong learning
6develop scientific communication skills to a professional level.Intellectual rigourKnowledge of a disciplineLifelong learning

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

  1. demonstrate an advanced understanding of the taxonomy, anatomy, biology and ecology of marine mammals
    • GA1: Intellectual rigour
    • GA4: Knowledge of a discipline
  2. demonstrate accurate species identifications of the common marine mammal occurring in Australian territorial waters
    • GA1: Intellectual rigour
    • GA4: Knowledge of a discipline
    • GA5: Lifelong learning
  3. critically evaluate the main types of human interactions with marine mammals and how they can be managed
    • GA1: Intellectual rigour
    • GA4: Knowledge of a discipline
  4. demonstrate a high-level understanding of how marine mammals are managed and the legislation governing their protection
    • GA1: Intellectual rigour
    • GA4: Knowledge of a discipline
  5. synthesise the risks posed to marine mammals by human activities such as whaling, fisheries, habitat loss, shipping, pollution, tourism and climate change
    • GA1: Intellectual rigour
    • GA5: Lifelong learning
  6. develop scientific communication skills to a professional level.
    • GA1: Intellectual rigour
    • GA4: Knowledge of a discipline
    • GA5: Lifelong learning

Prescribed texts

  • Prescribed text information is not currently available.
Prescribed texts may change in future study periods.

Teaching and assessment

Notice

Intensive offerings may or may not be scheduled in every session. Please refer to the timetable for further details.

Southern Cross University employs different teaching methods within units to provide students with the flexibility to choose the mode of learning that best suits them. SCU academics strive to use the latest approaches and, as a result, the learning modes and materials may change. The most current information regarding a unit will be provided to enrolled students at the beginning of the study session.

Fee information

Domestic

Commonwealth Supported courses
For information regarding Student Contribution Amounts please visit the Student Contribution Amounts.
Commencing 2020 Commonwealth Supported only. Student contribution band: 2

Fee paying courses
For POSTGRADUATE or UNDERGRADUATE full fee paying courses please check Domestic Postgraduate Fees OR Domestic Undergraduate Fees

International

Please check the international course and fee list to determine the relevant fees.

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