Key facts
UNE unit code: EVOL301
*You are viewing the 2026 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 provide the fundamental information underpinning our understanding of life on Earth. Whether you are building a career in botany, ecology, palaeontology, or zoology, or seeking to teach and communicate biological sciences, this unit will provide you with the key to evolutionary thinking.
In this unit, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of species concepts, phylogenetic systematics (including reconstruction and interpretation), character evolution, taxonomy, and the applications of these understandings to general evolutionary and conservation questions.
The unit also offers opportunities to develop skills using current macroevolutionary and systematic methods, including computer programs actively used in research at UNE, ensuring you are equipped to conceptualise scientific problems, build and analyse systematic datasets, and communicate solutions to complex problems.
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:
- demonstrate a broad and coherent understanding of the key concepts of systematics and have practical systematics skills and experience in dealing with organismal diversity;
- demonstrate relevant understanding and practical skills in defining, scoring and analysing character data using appropriate computer programs and this will also demonstrate the student's ability in working autonomously and use well-developed judgment;
- demonstrate a sound understanding of the issues related to phylogenetic analysis and classification;
- conduct phylogenetic analyses using computer programs; this will demonstrate students' ability to analyse, generate and transmit solution to complex problems;
- demonstrate sound skills in appraisal and communication of scientific literature; this information will be transmitted to others using written forms; and
- demonstrate well-developed cognitive skills necessary to critically review, appraise and communicate scientific literature of relevance to systematics.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 35% | All offerings | No. Words: 1500 equiv. Students will have to provide a list of resources they wish to use prior to the proctored exam. They will only be able to use these resources. To pass this unit, you must achieve at least 50% in this task and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. 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. |
| Practicals and Tutorials | Yes | 25% | All offerings | A series of assessments that builds on methodological and communication skills. No. Words: Equivalent to 1000 |
| Presentation - Assurance Task | Yes | 15% | All offerings | Conference Presentation outlining the results to be reported on in the manuscript. Duration approximately 10 minutes. No. Words: 500 equiv. 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 at least 50% in this task and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
| Scientific Manuscript | Yes | 25% | All offerings | Cumulative presentation and written manuscript. 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.
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Biological Systematics - Principles and Applications
ISBN: 9781501752773
Brower, Andrew V.Z. and Schuh, Randall T., Cornell University Press 3rd ed, 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
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