Fundamentals of Conservation Biology

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

This course is an introduction to the interdisciplinary field of conservation biology for non-majors. We will begin by reviewing how science works and doing a brief survey of life on Earth. We will then go over a brief history of life and conservation before delving into the science of ecology and what constitutes biodiversity. This will be followed by the current major threats to biodiversity, including habitat loss, overexploitation, climate change, and invasive species. Finally, we conclude with an overview of the various conservation methods for preserving biodiversity, including designating reserves, managing populations, and conserving resources. Over the course of the semester we will also cover the history of conservation in the United States as told through the lens of the National Parks system. Virtual lab activities will also bring an active-learning component to emphasize key lessons from lecture.