Biodiversity and Evolution (Extended Major)

Program Overview

The Biodiversity and Evolution extended major provides a comprehensive understanding of the evolution and diversity of life in Australia, particularly in Western Australia. Through classroom and field studies, students gain expertise in animal and plant biology, evolutionary processes, and ecological principles. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in environmental management, conservation, and academia, and have a strong foundation for further study in biological sciences.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The extended major in Biodiversity and Evolution is designed for students interested in understanding the evolution and maintenance of the outstanding biodiversity that exists in Australia, with a special emphasis on Western Australia, a globally recognised hotspot of animal and plant diversity. This extended major explores the basics of animal and plant biology and how these systems have evolved, adapted and diversified.

Objectives:

• Explain the major differences in the development, structure and functioning of animals and plants and explain animal and plant diversity in a phylogenetic context.
• Explain broad patterns of global biodiversity and the evolutionary history of Australia's biodiversity.
• Explain how animals and plants diversify and function in different environments using evolutionary, physiological, ecological and molecular genetic concepts.
• Develop and apply relevant employability skills for roles related to biodiversity and evolution.

Teaching:

• Students will have opportunities to study animals and plants living in a diverse range of habitats in Western Australia, from deserts to forests and tropical reefs, and to carry out their studies in both the classroom and in the field.
• Students will gain discipline-specific expertise and practical skills from world-leading academics and industry partners.

Careers:

• Graduates are employed in private sector companies (such as consultancy companies, resources sector), in government departments (for example, Environment; Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions; Primary Industries and Regional Development; State Fisheries), in public agencies (such as botanic gardens, museums and zoos) and environment and conservation research agencies (CSIRO), while others may join academic institutions.
• This major will also prepare you for entry into Honours in Zoology and the Master of Biological Science.

Other:

• Western Australia (WA) is a terrestrial biodiversity hot spot.
Up to 80 per cent of the region's plants and invertebrates are unique to the area, and the state is a stronghold for threatened mammals. This makes WA the ideal living laboratory for studies in biological science.
• Ranked 1st in Australia and 32nd in the world for Biological Sciences (ARWU 2023)