Ecology
Qualifications
Overview
Ecology is the scientific study of the interactions between organisms and the environment. In reality, modern ecology is much broader than this, encompassing studies on individuals, species, populations, communities and ecosystems, and including behaviour, evolution, physiology and increasingly, molecular biology.
In New Zealand, the study of ecology is especially important. As a small group of islands separated from larger land masses, the New Zealand flora and fauna evolved unique characteristics in the absence of mammals. The invasion of New Zealand by humans, and the organisms (including mammals) that they introduced has dramatically altered its ecology, leading to drastic reductions in numbers, or even extinctions, of the original animals and plants.
In addition, global climate change is affecting the ecology of New Zealand, altering the distribution of both native and introduced organisms.
Year 13 biology and statistics or calculus is strongly recommended.
Some background in chemistry is valuable in most biological disciplines. Some knowledge of geography or earth science is also helpful.
All students should have adequate English skills.
100-level courses
To major in Biological Sciences you must complete the following 100-level courses:
- BIOL 111 Cellular Biology and Biochemistry
- BIOL 112 Ecology, Evolution and Conservation
- BIOL 113 Diversity of Life
- STAT 101 Statistics 1
In addition to the four required courses above, first-year courses in Chemistry, Geography and Geology are recommended:
200-level and beyond
Students seeking an endorsement in Ecology need to take the following core courses:
At third year there is a wide range of Ecology courses to choose from. See the BSc schedule for this endorsement for the required courses.
Ecologists can take up a wide range of careers working for organisations such as the Department of Conservation, city councils, Environment Canterbury, universities and Crown Research Institutes, as well as with private companies such as environmental consulting agencies. Their work can take them to a wide range of beautiful and unique areas in New Zealand and beyond.
Find out more about what you can do with a degree in Ecology.
Contact us
Phone +64 3 369 5200
Email biological-sciences@canterbury.ac.nz
Location
2nd Floor, Biology building - see campus maps
Postal address
College of Science | Te Rāngai Pūtaiao
University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
Browse related subjects to Ecology
Choose an area that you are interested in and learn how UC's extensive range of study options can let you study what you want to.
Chemistry
Chemistry is the central science. It deals with the composition, structure and behaviour of the atoms and molecules that make up all forms of matter. ...
Geography
Geography is an exciting and distinctive discipline at the interface between Science and Arts. Its focus is on putting various types of knowledge together to ...