Summer Sessions | Courses | Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology

An introduction to the enormous diversity of life on Earth. From bacteria to mammals, this course will survey species diversity, with an emphasis on ecological interactions and conservation. The course will also use basics of genetics and evolutionary biology to explore how diversity is generated and maintained. [No previous knowledge of science is assumed. Fulfills a science requirement for most Columbia and GS undergraduates.

5 WEEKS ONLY: MEETS TU/TH WEEKS 1-3; MEETS M/TU/TH WEEKS 4-5.

The study of nonhuman primate behavior from the perspective of phylogeny, adaptation, physiology and anatomy, and life history.  This course focuses on the four main problems primates face:  Finding appropriate food, avoiding being eaten themselves, reproducing in the face of competition and dealing with social partners.No previous knowledge of science is assumed. Fulfills a science requirement for most Columbia and GS undergraduates. Field trip:  Date TBD. Trip to zoo—during class time; students pay for public transportation

Note:  Separate registration is not required for discussion section.  

Water covers the majority of the earth’s surface but what of the life in these waters? Rivers, wetlands, lakes, estuaries and oceans provide habitat for an extraordinary diversity of animals. This course explores the amazing array of aquatic animals that occupy both freshwater and marine ecosystems as well as the natural and human activities that impact their survival. No previous knowledge of science is assumed. Fulfills the science requirement for most Columbia and GS undergraduates. ​Field trip:  Date TBD. Students pay for public transportation.

Using evolutionary principles as the unifying theme, we will survey the study of animal behavior, including the history, basic principles and research methods.   Fieldwork is a significant component of this course and through observations at the World Wildlife Conservation Park (Bronx Zoo) and in the urban environment of New York, students will gain familiarity with the scientific method, behavioral observation and research design. Although this is listed as a 3000-level course, no prior biology experience is required. Fulfills the science requirement for most Columbia and GS undergraduates. Field trip: TBD, most probably trip to zoo—during class time; students pay for public transportation

This course focuses on the potential value of behavior change programs to improve biodiversity conservation, with a focus on the use of social marketing approaches.  Through analysis of case studies from endangered parrot conservation to consumer demand for sustainably produced coffee, we examine the power of conservation marketing to move people beyond raised awareness and good intentions to secure and maintained pro-conservation behaviors.