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Birds and Mammals of the Southern Ocean unit (KSM302)

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Unit year 2026

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Location: Hobart

This is a quota restricted unit.  Enrolment places are limited.

Introduction

In this unit, you will delve into the biology of birds and mammals inhabiting the Southern Ocean, from Southern Australia to Antarctica, exploring their crucial roles in marine ecosystems. You will cover a broad range of topics including ecology, taxonomy, conservation management, climate change impacts, trophic pathways, and species health and disease, integrating these into a comprehensive ecological framework. You will attend expert lectures and seminars, then apply your knowledge through hands-on analytical projects and a field trip right here in Tasmania to directly engage with Southern Ocean wildlife. This course will equip you with essential skills and knowledge for postgraduate studies and careers in wildlife biology, conservation, and environmental science, emphasising practical field methodologies, analytical skills, and critical thinking.

Summary

Unit name Birds and Mammals of the Southern Ocean
Unit code KSM302
Credit points 12.5
College/School Sciences and Engineering
Institute for Marine & Antarctic Studies
Discipline Ecology and Biodiversity
Coordinator Doctor Jane Younger
Teaching staff Doctor Angus Henderson|Doctor David Green|Doctor Sophie Bestley
Available as an elective? No
Delivered By University of Tasmania
Level Advanced

Sustainable Development Goals

The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.

Availability

Location Study period Attendance options Available to
Hobart Half Year Period 2 This unit is available through on-campus delivery Available to International Students Available to Domestic Students
  • Key:
  • This unit is available through on-campus delivery On-campus
  • This unit is available through off-campus delivery Off-Campus
  • Available to International Students International students
  • Available to Domestic Students Domestic students
Note

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Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.

Key Dates

Study Period Start date Census date WW date End date
Half Year Period 2 21/6/2026 27/7/2026 17/9/2026 7/11/2026

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

  • Critically evaluate and discuss scientific literature and concepts relating to birds and mammals in the Southern Ocean.
  • Apply field techniques related to bird and mammal research in the Southern Ocean.
  • Produce a scientific written report and oral presentation by analysing and interpreting data, applying scientific literacy skills, and incorporating experimental design.

Fee Information

Field of Education Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 Domestic Full Fee 4
010915 $1,192.00 $1,192.00 not applicable $2,862.00
  • Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
  • HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility3
  • FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility4

1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Prerequisites

KZA212 AND KPZ211

Teaching

Teaching Pattern

A semi intensive unit including 20 lectures, field trips and research project. Major report will be due in post-course dates.

 

AssessmentLecture quiz (20%)|Oral presentation (20%)|Field report (25%)|Research project report (35%)
TimetableView the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required

Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.