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