YVEAIN Intermediate Studies in Environmental and Aquatic Sciences (60+ cr)

The subject studies of Environmental and Aquatic Sciences go through facts and principles related to the organisms, structure and function of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems as well as on human impact to those ecosystems and their natural resources. Within the studies, it is possible to focus either to environmental or aquatic sciences, or to both of them. In addition, there are several optional courses available related to nature conservation. Students learn the basic principles, theories and information needs as well as basic information about ecological, economic and socially sustainable use principles and boundaries.

After passing the subject studies of environmental and aquatic sciences, students understand:

• basic phenomena of life,
• the principles underlying scientific research,
• good scientific practices and ethical principles,
• sufficiently the field's knowledge and skills that will allow them to pursue advanced studies in national or international master’s degree programmes, and
• the relevance of the field to society.

Students are able to:

• Acquire, learn and organize information critically and objectively, in particular the scientific texts of the field.
• Apply their knowledge and use central methods and tools, as well as evaluate their use of those data, methods and tools.
• Plan, execute, analyze, and report their findings in a small-scale scientific research project.
• Follow good scientific practice and ethical principles as well as work-safety norms.
• Communicate effectively, but in oral and written formats.

Students should also

• Know the basics of ecological, economic, and socially sustainable use of natural resources.
• Know the structure and function of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, and how human activity affects those ecosystems and resources.
• Understand the principles of empirical and theoretical research in the field.
• Be familiar with regulations and technical solutions to management of natural resources and environmental protection.