BIO 372 Conservation Biology

This course will integrate principles of ecology, genetics, and evolution as they relate to the current global crisis of diminished biological diversity. We will evaluate major problems related to protection and restoration of biological diversity using an interdisciplinary approach. Solving conservation problems requires a strong foundation in scientific thinking and innovation that comes from synthesizing multiple perspectives. Therefore, we will also consider sociology, economics, ethics, and policy as we tackle major global and local causes of extinction and the possible solutions. Students will critically read and discuss scientific literature, design research, interpret and analyze data using advanced quantitative techniques, evaluate case studies, and develop writing skills. 3 hours lecture. 1 three-hour laboratory. Prerequisite: BIO 290

4 credit hours