The student will acquire an understanding of the structure and function of natural 
systems from the perspective of scientific discipline, an introduction to selected 
scientists investigating natural systems, and the experimental design and results 
of their research.  The domain of ecology will be defined defining emergent 
principles at the hierarchical level.  The role of man as a pervasive force within 
the natural environment will be discussed, particularly the emerging discipline of 
landscape ecology and global conservation of species.  The understanding of 
environmental health and its inextricable involvement with human health will be an 
expected learning outcome.

Life and the Physical Environment: 
-adaptation of life to water and nutrients 
-adaptation of life to light, energy, and heat 
-climate, water, and soil 
-the biome concept  

Organisms: 
-evolution and adaptation 
-life histories and evolutionary fitness 
-sex and evolution 
-family, society, and evolution  

Populations: 
-structure of populations 
-growth and regulation of populations 
-competition between species 
-evolution of species interactions  

Communities: 
-community structure 
-succession 
-competition between species 
-evolution of species interactions  

Ecosystems: 
-energy flow 
-nutrient pathways and recycling 
-nutrient regeneration  

Ecological Applications: 
-landscape ecology 
-biodiversity, extinction, and conservation 
-global ecology