This subject requires on campus attendance. Refer to Additional Requirements for more information.
Diversity of Life
UndergraduateMAQ-BIOX23102025
Enrolments for this course are closed, but you may have other options to start studying now. Book a consultation to learn more.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Assessments
- Subject may require attendance
- Entry requirements
- Part of a degree
- Duration
- 13 weeks
- Loan available
- HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Diversity of Life
About this subject
On successful completion you will be able to
- Interpret phylogenetic trees and describe evolutionary relationships amongst groups of organisms
- Give examples of individual organisms that belong to the major animal and plant groups
- Identify the key anatomical traits used to define major groups
- Explain how key anatomical traits are linked to the success of different organisms in solving problems posed by diverse environments
- Critically evaluate the primary scientific literature
- A week-by-week guide to the topics you will explore in this subject will be provided in your study materials.
This subject explores the biological diversity of plants and animals. Relationships between structure and function are emphasised. The unit also discusses how organisms have adapted to specific environments. There is a strong emphasis on evolutionary processes and how these have generated biological diversity. A comparative approach is taken, with adaptation discussed in the context of evolutionary trees and the fossil record. The unit is suitable for students interested in organismal biology, science education, and research.
Learning in this unit enhances student understanding of global challenges identified by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) Life on Land
- Final examination (50%)
- Research Report (35%)
- Lab book (15%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
This research-intensive university in north-western Sydney offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. With over 44,000 current students, Macquarie has a strong reputation for welcoming international students and embracing flexible and convenient study options, including its partnership with Open Universities Australia.
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- QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 11
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- 10
Entry requirements
To enrol in this subject, you must be admitted into a degree.
Prior study
You must have successfully completed the following subject(s) before starting this subject:
Others
50cp at 1000 level or above including (BIOX1310 )
NCCW (pre-2020) BIOL228, BIOL208, BIOL210, BIOL605
from 2020 NCCW BIOL1310
Additional requirements
- Attendance requirements - Laboratory based classes
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.