Key facts
UNE unit code: EVOL501
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 3 - On Campus
- Trimester 3 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Macroevolution, systematics, and taxonomy underpin how we understand life on Earth. Whether you are building a career in botany, ecology, palaeontology or zoology, or preparing to teach and communicate the biological sciences, this unit strengthens your evolutionary thinking and gives you practical ways to organise and interpret biodiversity.
Throughout the unit, you develop a comprehensive understanding of species concepts, phylogenetic systematics (including reconstruction and interpretation), character evolution, and taxonomy, and you apply these ideas to broader evolutionary and conservation questions.
You build capability with current macroevolutionary and systematic methods, including computer programs actively used in current UNE research. You practise conceptualising scientific problems, building and analysing systematic datasets, interpreting outputs, and communicating solutions to complex biological questions, preparing you to apply systematic thinking to real-world research and conservation decisions.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 3 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 3 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
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:
- synthesise and critically assess theoretical frameworks, methodological assumptions, and controversies in phylogenetic inference and systematic classification;
- critically evaluate the scientific literature relevant to systematics and macroevolution;
- design, justify, and execute a multi-step phylogenetic research project, demonstrating independent methodological decision-making; and
- critically evaluate, integrate, and contribute to scientific discourse in systematics through academic-quality written and oral communication.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Conference Presentation - Assurance Task | Yes | 25% | All offerings | Presentation explaining and justifying the study design, and outlining the results to be reported on in the manuscript. Duration approximately 10 minutes. Oral assessments will be presented in real time, either face-to-face (on-campus students) or via webcam and screen sharing technology (off campus students). To pass this unit, you must achieve a minimum cumulative total of 50% in Final Examination - Assurance Task and Conference Presentation - Assurance Task and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 35% | All offerings | There is a supervised exam at the end of the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. During the exam, students will have access to a limited range of resources which must be nominated and pre-approved prior to the proctored exam. To pass this unit, you must achieve a minimum cumulative total of 50% in Final Examination - Assurance Task and Conference Presentation - Assurance Task and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
| Practicals and Tutorials | Yes | 15% | All offerings | A series of assessments that builds on methodological and communication skills. No. Words: Equivalent to 1000 |
| Scientific Manuscript | Yes | 25% | All offerings | Write a scientific manuscript based on collecting phylogenetic data and undertaking the appropriate analyses. No. Words: Equivalent to 3000 |
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.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2027 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
