spring 2017
BIO-2310 Arctic biology - 10 ECTS

Application deadline

1. December 2016. Apply for BIO-2310

Exchange students and Fulbright students also has to apply 1 October for the spring semester.


Type of course

The course is limited to 20 students due to the expedition to the West Ice. 10 places are reserved for qualified students at our bachleorprogram: Biologi, klima og miljø and Miljøledelse og forurensningsbiologi and aimed at MSc-students specializing in "Arctic animal physiology".The course is also available to exchange students at a biology study program. Please note! students must expect some costs associated with the purchase of clothing used during the field expedition. Not available as singular course.

Obligatory prerequisites

BIO-2002 Physiology II (Animal Physiology)

Course content

The course describes the arctic environment and focuses on the biology of various arctic animals and their physiological adaptations to the extreme environment.

Objectives of the course

Students that have completed Bio-2310 Arctic Biology:
  • should have knowledge, insight and increased awareness of the Arctic region, and the animals (invertebrates, fish, birds, mammals) that inhabit this region
  • should be able to describe physiological adaptations of animals living in an extreme environment
  • should be able to understand-scientific literature
  • should be able to discuss- and give oral/written presentations of problems concerning this field of science

Language of instruction and examination

The language of instruction is English and all of the syllabus material is in English. Examination questions will be given in English, but may be answered either in English or a Scandinavian language.

Teaching methods

Lectures based on a syllabus and an obligatory expedition (approximately 14 days) with experimental studies of seals in the West ice will take place in March/April using the university vessel RV Helmer Hanssen. Students will work together in groups and write reports based on results from research and practicals done during the expedition. Necessary safety training will be given.

Assessment

6 hours written exam. A graded scale of five marks from A to E for pass and F for fail.

Coursework requirements: cruisereport. In order to sit an examination, the student must complete and gain approval for any coursework requirements.  

There will be a re-sit examination for students that did not pass the previous ordinary examination.


Recommended reading/syllabus

A.S.Blix (2005) Arctic Animals and their Adaptations to Life on the Edge, tapir academic press. Presentations from lectures, available in Fronter.

Error rendering component

  • About the course
  • Campus: Tromsø |
  • ECTS: 10
  • Course code: BIO-2310