100-level

BIOL111
Cellular Biology and Biochemistry
Description
A foundation course in cellular biology integrating the principles of molecular biology and biochemistry with the structure and function of plant, animal and microbial cells. Cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying cell growth/death cycles, cancer and genetic disorders will also be considered.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Restrictions
ENCH281 and BCHM111
BIOL112
Ecology, Evolution and Conservation
Description
An integrated course embracing the principles of ecology, behaviour, genetics, evolution and conservation biology.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points
BIOL113
Diversity of Life
Description
An overview of the diversity, evolution, structure and function of animals, plants and microbes.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
BIOL116
Human Biology
Description
An introduction to the biology of humans. The course is particularly recommended for students wishing to advance in topics in health and sport, as well as those students advancing in science subjects.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points

200-level

BIOL209
Biological Data Analysis
Description
Introductory statistics with specific examples for biologists. This course is required for all students in BIOL.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
STAT101 or 15 points of 100 level MATH
BIOL210
Vertebrate Biology
Description
The comparative anatomy, general biology, ecology, physiology and evolutionary history of the vertebrates.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL113
BIOL212
Marine Biology and Ecology
Description
An introduction to the ecology and biology of the marine environment. Description and analysis of marine communities and the biodiversity, ecology and behaviour of marine organisms.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL112 and BIOL113
BIOL213
Microbiology
Description
An introduction to the fundamental principles of microbiology and microbial genetics.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL111 or BIOL113. RP: BIOL231/BCHM202
BIOL215
Exploring Biodiversity: Principles and Methods of Systematics
Description
This course takes a broad view of the ways biological diversity can be described and classified, and its origins understood. Systematics is the scientific discipline that encompasses the description, identification, nomenclature, and classification of organisms (Taxonomy) and the reconstruction of their macro-evolutionary history (Phylogenetics). Knowing the identity and evolutionary relationships of organisms is crucial to any biological study, but functional classifications are also important. This course is an introduction to the methodology and principles of systematics across all forms of biodiversity (bacteria, plants, fungi, protists, and animals), from morphological to next-generation DNA-based approaches and including functional methods.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL112 or BIOL113 (RP: BIOL111)
BIOL231
Foundations in Molecular Biology
Description
Principles of genetics, including the structure of RNA and DNA, molecular replication, transcription, translation, recombination and gene expression.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL111 (=BCHM111) or ENCH281
Restrictions
BCHM202, ENCH480, BIOL230
BIOL250
Principles of Animal Physiology
Description
An introduction to the mechanisms of how the body works, concentrating on osmoregulation and excretion, digestion, nerves and muscles.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL111 (=BCHM111) or ENCH281
BIOL253
Cell Biology I
Description
Internal organisation of the cell. The course will build on the introduction to cell biology in BIOL 111 (BCHM 111) and seek to develop further understanding of the internal workings of the cell.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL111 (=BCHM111) or ENCH281
Restrictions
BCHM253
BIOL254
Principles of Plant Physiology
Description
The principles of plant development, including the basic anatomy of higher plants, and how they grow, respond to external stimuli and reproduce. Relationship between these concepts and developments in agriculture and biotechnology.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL111 (=BCHM111) or ENCH281
Restrictions
BIOL252
BIOL271
Evolution
Description
An introduction to evolution: patterns and processes of evolution; mechanisms of evolution, adaptation, speciation and extinction.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL112
BIOL272
Principles of Animal Behaviour
Description
This course is intended to provide a broad understanding of how animals interact with each other and with their environment. This course will cover the control, development, adaptive significance and evolution of behaviour. We will use a combination of traditional lectures, selected case studies, laboratory and fieldwork to learn fundamental concepts animal behaviour. Additional reading of scientific papers will be an essential adjunct to the lectures and especially to assessments.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL112 or PSYC105
BIOL274
Principles of Ecology
Description
This course provides a fundamental grounding in the main concepts in and applications of ecology, the study of relationships between organisms and their environment. The most important concepts in population, community, landscape and ecosystem ecology are covered. These are considered using examples from across marine, freshwater, forest, grassland, urban and production ecosystems, and with particular reference to the factors controlling the distribution of plants, animals and microbes in Aotearoa New Zealand, and their differences to other countries. There is a particular emphasis on the problems and issues affecting natural systems, and how ecological knowledge can be applied to achieve solutions. We will also recognise taongo species and consider Maori perspectives on cultural management of natural resources. Overall, this course provides a thorough overview for those wanting to compliment other environmental knowledge. It can be combined with BIOL275 Field Ecology to provide a comprehensive platform for those wanting to undertake more advanced ecological study.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Semester One 2024 (Distance)
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL112
Restrictions
BIOL270
BIOL275
Field Ecology
Description
This course provides a fundamental grounding in the practical skills used in ecology, the study of relationships between organisms and their environment. It is designed to add to the co-requisite course BIOL274 Principles of Ecology (to form the equivalent of the 30-pt BIOL270 Ecology) if students want to advance to 300-level ecology courses. There is a particular emphasis on the problems and issues affecting natural systems, and how ecological knowledge can be applied to achieve solutions. The focus of the course is a four-day field trip to the UC Cass field station near Arthur’s Pass National Park. Combined with laboratory sessions prior to cultivate basic skills, the field course allows students to develop expertise in field experimental design and sampling, data analysis and interpretation, as well as providing practical experience in some wonderful high country environments. We will also recognise taongo species and consider appropriate Maori protocols (tikanga) for sampling in the field and the need for consultation. Overall, this course provides both a comprehensive platform for those wanting to undertake more advanced ecological study. The combination of BIOL274 and BIOL275 is a prerequisite for all ecology core courses at 300-level, and for students intending to progress to postgraduate level in ecology.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Restrictions
BIOL270
Co-requisites
BIOL274

300-level

BIOL305
Practical Field Botany
Description
A residential field course focussing on the identification and sampling of plants, in practical (field) conditions.
Occurrences
Summer Jan 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
(1) BIOL215 or (2) BIOL273 or (3) BIOL270 or (4) BIOL274 and BIOL275 or (5) subject to approval by the Head of the School of Biological Sciences
BIOL307
Special Topic
Description
Selected lectures, tutorials and assignments from courses relevant to biology and/or a supervised course of study subject to approval by the Head of School
Occurrences
Any Time Start 2024
Semester One 2024
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
Entry subject to approval by the Head of School.
BIOL309
Experimental Design and Data Analysis for Biologists
Description
Advanced experimental design and statistical techniques for biologists. This course is essential for all students considering postgraduate study in biological sciences.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL209 or appropriate statistical background as determined by the Head of School
BIOL313
Advanced Microbiology
Description
This course builds on BIOL213 and explores microbial ecology, advanced food and agricultural microbiology, disease and pathogenesis. The course emphasises bacteria and fungi, with other microbes also considered. Both fundamental and applied microbiology will be covered. The practical component of the course consists of isolating and characterising novel microbial strains, using both molecular and traditional approaches.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL213
BIOL333
Molecular Genetics
Description
BIOL333 is an advanced molecular genetics course that builds on the conceptual frameworks developed in the pre-requisite course BIOL231/BCHM202. It provides in-depth coverage across the breadth of life with an emphasis on gene expression, gene concepts and biotechnology.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL231 (=BCHM202)
Restrictions
BIOL330
BIOL334
Evolutionary Genetics and Genomics
Description
BIOL334 is an advanced course that builds on the conceptual frameworks developed in the pre-requisite course BIOL271. It provides in-depth coverage across the breadth of evolutionary genetics and genomics with an emphasis on conservation genetics/genomics, epigenetics, evolution and development (evo-devo), and genomic interactions with the environment.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL215 and BIOL271
Restrictions
BIOL330
BIOL337
Bioinformatics
Description
The general aim of this course is to discuss major concepts in the bioinformatic analysis, application, handling and management of large-scale biological data, and apply these bioinformatics methods to real-world issues. The central focus will be on bringing together previously developed skills in programming, computing and data wrangling, and evaluating how these skills apply to biological datasets. This paper will also discuss the cultural, political, social and legal issues regarding data ownership, use and governance. The course will consist of regular lectures and computer labs, where students will be able to explore biological datasets using their knowledge of bioinformatics. The emphasis is on the amalgamation of students’ previous two years of training and experience, providing students with the context and the background required to apply their skills in the real world. Skills learnt will be assessed via short computer lab reports and a final exam. BIOL337 is a required course for enrolment in BIOL338 (Bioinformatics Project).
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL231 and DATA201 and [STAT201 or STAT202 or BIOL209]
BIOL338
Bioinformatics Project
Description
This course will develop your ability to undertake research in bioinformatics. Drawing on existing datasets, you will design and complete a research project. The aim is for most projects to be based on real-world problems with data provided in collaboration with a research partner. The training, practice and critical evaluation of the research will be carried out in groups, and you will communicate your research findings using spoken, statistical and written skills. The course consists of regular lectures/tutorials and project group meetings, supported by web-based resources. It concludes with a public conference, where you will present your findings. The emphasis is on students working together to solve real-world bioinformatic problems using skills that are transferable to the workplace.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
30 points
Prerequisites
BIOL337
BIOL351
Cell Biology 2
Description
Advanced study of cellular organisation and interactions with emphasis on the relationships between molecular structure and organelle and cell function.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL253 (=BCHM253)
BIOL352
Plant Development and Biotechnology
Description
Biotechnology for industries using plants and plant products. The principles and applications of advanced cell biology, plant tissue culture and genetic engineering. Use of natural products in industry.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL254 or BIOL253 (=BCHM253) or BIOL231 (=BCHM202)
BIOL354
Animal Ecophysiology
Description
Comparative aspects of physiological adaptation to aquatic and terrestrial environments. Topics include osmoregulation, excretion, respiration, circulation, temperature acclimation, using both vertebrate and invertebrate examples.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL250
BIOL355
Neurons, Hormones and Behaviour
Description
The physiological basis of behaviour. Building on the introduction to Animal Physiology in BIOL250, this course will concentrate on the endocrine and nervous systems and develop an understanding of how these systems have evolved to fine-tune the behaviour of animals.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL250 RP: BIOL272
BIOL371
Evolutionary Ecology
Description
The focus of this course is on how the interplay between ecological and evolutionary forces generate biological diversity at many levels, and how this knowledge is used to solve problems in human health, agriculture and conservation.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL271
BIOL375
Freshwater Ecosystems
Description
Advanced theories and concepts of freshwater ecology and their practical application to current issues.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL209 and either (1) BIOL270 or (2) BIOL274 and BIOL275
BIOL377
Global Change Ecology and Biosecurity
Description
A discussion of major concepts in community and ecosystems ecology in the context of anthropogenic changes to the environment and pressure from invasive exotic species.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL209 and BIOL274
BIOL378
Population Ecology and Conservation
Description
Advanced concepts in population ecology, especially those most relevant to the New Zealand region and to the conservation of the New Zealand biota. Topics include life history tradeoffs, dispersal and metapopulations, species interactions, population regulation, population modelling, management of populations, and issues for species conservation in New Zealand.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL209 and either (1) BIOL270 or (2) BIOL274 and BIOL275
BIOL383
Behavioural Ecology
Description
The development and adaptive significance of behaviour with emphasis on the relationship between ecology and behaviour.
Occurrences
Semester One 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL209 and BIOL272
Restrictions
BIOL373
BIOL384
Marine Ecosystems
Description
Advanced theories, concepts and applications of marine ecology to current issues.
Occurrences
Semester Two 2024
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
(1) BIOL209, (2) BIOL212, and (3) BIOL274
Restrictions
BIOL374

Not Offered Courses in 2024

200-level

BIOL211
Insect Biology
Description
The biology of insects and other non-marine arthropods, with emphasis on environmental relationships and management. Note - this course will be offered in even-numbered years.
Occurrences
Not offered 2024, offered in 2016 , 2018 , 2020 , 2022 , 2023
For further information see BIOL211 course details
Points
15 points

300-level

BIOL306
Special Topic
Occurrences
Not offered 2024, offered in 2016 , 2017 , 2018 , 2019 , 2020
For further information see BIOL306 course details
Points
15 points
BIOL308
Special Topic
Description
Selected lectures, tutorials and assignments from courses relevant to biology and/or a supervised course of study subject to approval by the Head of School.
Occurrences
Not offered 2024
For further information see BIOL308 course details
Points
30 points
BIOL309
Experimental Design and Data Analysis for Biologists
Description
Advanced experimental design and statistical techniques for biologists. This course is essential for all students considering postgraduate study in biological sciences.
Occurrences
BIOL309-24S2 (D)
Semester Two 2024 (Distance) - Not offered
For further information see BIOL309 course details
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL209 or appropriate statistical background as determined by the Head of School
BIOL336
Ecological and Evolutionary Models
Description
Introduction to key ecological and evolutionary models. The course introduces how to solve basic mathematical models and how to use computational tools to explore their solutions. Students learn how to create simple models to understand how complex, real-world processes unfold.
Occurrences
BIOL336-24S1 (C)
Semester One 2024 - Not offered
For further information see BIOL336 course details
Points
15 points
Prerequisites
BIOL209 or 15 Points of 200-level COSC or DATA or EMTH or ENCE or PHYS or MATH or STAT. RP: BIOL270, BIOL271 or BIOL274