Integrative Biology X55
University of California Extension
Center for Media and Independent Learning
Marine Biology
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In general, this introductory course examines the history and development of the field of
marine biology, the types of organisms that inhabit the marine environment, the types of
habitats and ecological systems in the seas and oceans, and the use of the marine environment
by humans and the problems and issues associated with that use.
There are no formal prerequisites for this course, although students who have not had a
first-year, college-level biology course may have to spend a little extra time becoming
familiar with some material. Some chemistry and physics would also be helpful, but are not
required to understand the material in this course.
Objectives
After completing this course, students will:
- Understand the scope of the field of marine biology, both scientifically and within the context of society in general.
- Learn about the major groups of organisms that inhabit the marine environment, including: taxonomic relationships, life histories, and adaptations to specific kinds of habitats
- Learn about trophic dynamics, community structure, and other ecological relationships in a variety of marine systems
- Understand the effects associated with pollution, habitat modification, and exploitation of resources in marine environments
The Lessons
The course is divided into ten lessons. Each lesson consists of
readings from the text and the instructor's commentary in the course guide,
which corresponds with the text. Each lesson also includes a submitted assignment of
objective study questions that are designed both to assist you in learning the material and
to enable the instructor to evaluate your progress. You are encouraged to send in any questions
you might have along with your completed assignments.
Final Examination
A final examination is also required. It is an objective, two-hour, closed-book,
comprehensive exam. The final examination questions will be similar in form and content to
the study questions for the submitted assignments, except that there will be more of them.
Course Grade
The course grade will be based on the following:
Satisfactory submission of responses to study questions 70%
Final examination 30% (You must pass the final examination to pass the course)
Lessons
Lesson 1: The Field of Marine Biology and the Marine Environment
Lesson 2: Systematics and Evolution of Marine Organisms: Monera, Protista, Fungi, and Plants
Lesson 3: The Metazoan Invertebrates
Lesson 4: Introduction to the Vertebrates and Fishes
Lesson 5: Reptiles and Birds
Lesson 6: Marine Mammals
Lesson 7: Ecological Principles
Lesson 8: The Offshore Photic, Benthic, and Pelagic Zones
Lesson 9: The Intertidal and Coastal Zones
Lesson 10: Food from the Sea and Marine Pollution
Instructor: Stephen W. Shaner, Ph.D.
For information about registering for this course, go to:
University of California, CMIL
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