Key facts
UNE unit code: GEOL315
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2026
- Yes
- Yes
- No
- 6
Unit information
From dinosaurs to the Cambrian explosion, this unit provides you with an overview of the major vertebrate groups (excluding mammals) and their fossil record.
With a strong focus on Australian Mesozoic fossil groups, you will explore the important concepts underpinning our understanding of the adaptations and differences between paleofauna groups, in time and space.
Anatomy, pivotal evolutionary events and key specimens are used to build a complete picture of our current knowledge.
Combining theory with field-based learning, the unit will equip you with essential skills in prospecting, specimen identification, stratigraphic mapping, geologic interpretation and scientific communication.
By delving into the fascinating history of life on earth, you will develop knowledge that can provide insights into what the future might hold for vertebrate species.
Intensive schools
| Start | Finish | Duration | Attendance | Offerings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TBA | TBA | 4 days | Mandatory Intensive School | All offerings | The Intensive School is mandatory for both online and on campus students. Dates to be advised. |
Enrolment rules
Notes
Unit will only be offered in odd numbered years. It is recommended GEOL202 be completed in Trimester 3 before enrolment in GEOL315.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate a broad and coherent knowledge of the major vertebrate groups based on skeletal anatomy, and their temporal and spatial distributions;
- demonstrate the ability to autonomously gather, analyse, critically review and synthesise anatomical, taxonomic, and geological data in order to evaluate the importance of a number of key palaeofaunas; and
- demonstrate a deep understanding of the mechanisms and timing of key evolutionary events in the evolution of pre-Cenozoic fossil vertebrates.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anatomy Exercises | Yes | 35% | All offerings | A series of Anatomy exercises completed during intensive school. No. Words: 2500 |
| Group Presentation | Yes | 15% | All offerings | Taphonomic analysis and group presentation done during intensive school. Presentations will be approximately 10 minutes. |
| Online Practicals | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Weekly online practicals. |
| Online Quizzes | Yes | 20% | All offerings | 4 x Online Quizzes |
| Practical | Yes | All offerings | The School of Environmental and Rural Science considers all practical/laboratory/tutorial activities as essential to student learning. Attendance and participation in all practical/laboratory/tutorial classes (sessions) is mandatory - exemptions will not be granted without supporting evidence. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Vertebrate Palaeontology
ISBN: 9781394195084
Benton, M.J., Wiley 5th ed. 2024
Text refers to: All offerings
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