Entry requirements

Knowledge and skill corresponding to Earth Science MN1, 20 points/30 ECTS credits or Biology MN1, 10 points/15 ECTS credits and general requirements for university studies in Natural Sciences.

Aims

To provide a basic knowledge of the early environmental development of the

planet Earth, the origin and evolution of unicellular life forms and interaction with global oceanic and atmospheric change, and the great diversification of life (mainly invertebrates) from the Cambrian to the present.

Content

Palaeobiology, ecology and palaeobiogeography among important protist

divisions, applications in stratigraphy, biotic radiations and crises,

extinctions. Origin and diversification of the Metazoa. The phanerozoic evolution of the nvertebrates. Practical extraction and taxonomy, microscopy.

Instruction

Lectures, seminars and practicals. The participation in seminars and practicals is compulsory. The course is given in English.

Assessment

Examination during or at the end of the course. In addition the compulsory parts must be approved. Possible course grades are "fail", "pass" or "pass with distinction". A student who fails the exam can try again within one month.