Entry requirements

A Bachelor's degree including (1) 60 credits in biology and 30 credits in chemistry or 30 credits in earth science, or (2) 90 credits in biology.

Learning outcomes

The general aim of the course is or students to acquire knowledge in limnology of relevance for their future work and research. On completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• analyse and evaluate abiotic and biotic conditions in aquatic ecosystems
• account for structure and dynamics in biogeochemical cycles and organism communities
• carry out basic sampling and analyses in freshwater field/laboratory systems
• plan and carry out experiment/field studies
• present and evaluate experiment/field studies both orally and in writing.

In the course, an introduction to Master's studies is included. After passing this module, the student should be able to:

• show awareness of ethical aspects of research and development including questions concerning plagiarism and equal opportunities/equal treatment
• demonstrate an understanding of the potential applications of biology, limitations and its role in society
• take personal responsibility for acquiring knowledge.

Content

The course conveys knowledge of inland waters as ecosystems, with a special focus on lakes, including physical, chemical and biological aspects. It is characterised by many practical components that provide skills and deepen the theoretical contents.

All major organism groups are covered, from microorganisms to fish. Common species and characteristic species for different lake types are studied, as well as variations in different parameters that control the dynamics of lake ecosystems. Carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus cycles are covered, including their connections with environmental issues such as climate change and eutrophication. The course also includes analysis of the chemical composition of water as well as assessment of water quality. Case studies using data from different types of ecosystems are used for training in how to interpret and evaluate data and time series.

The course includes several field exercises, including a longer field course with practical training in sampling and analysis methodology, statistical data analysis, independent project and group work, and oral and written presentations.

Instruction

The teaching be given in the form of lectures, seminars, computer exercises, field courses and laboratory sessions. Participation in seminars, field courses and laboratory sessions are compulsory.

Assessment

Modules: Species and habitat knowledge 4 credits; Field course 4 credits; Theory 5 credits; Introduction to Master's Studies 2 credits or Alternative Introduction to Master's Studies 2 credits. The module pecies and habitat knowledge is examined through written and oral tests. The field course requires active participation and oral and written presentations. The theory part requires active participation in seminars and laboratory sessions and passed written exam. For Introduction to Master's Studies active participation in seminars, a written report, and the completion of a study plan, are required. For Alternative Introduction to Master's Studies, active participation in seminars and a written report are required.

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the disability coordinator of the university.

Other directives

The course can not be credited in a degree together with 1BG202 Limnology I, 1BG 227 Limnology, 1G380 Limnology I D or 1BG041 Limnology L.