This subject requires on campus attendance. Refer to Additional Requirements for more information.
Plants
UndergraduateMAQ-BIOX24302025
Course information for 2025 intake
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Assessments
- Subject may require attendance
- Enrol by
- 20 July 2025
- Entry requirements
- Prior study needed
- Duration
- 13 weeks
- Start dates
- 28 July 2025
- Price from
- $1,195
- Upfront cost
- $0
- Loan available
- FEE-HELP available
Plants
About this subject
On successful completion, a student will be able to
- Explain the principles of the evolutionary trajectory of plants and microorganisms, and the key events and adaptive breakthroughs that shaped their diversity, their classification and taxonomy, and apply identification techniques
- Assess the key physiological processes that plants use to thrive in various environments, from deserts to rainforests and oceans
- Identify interactions between plants, microorganisms, and fungi in ecosystems, including mutualistic, commensal and pathogenic relationships
- Investigate the important role of plant and microbial/fungal diversity for ecosystem conservation and sustainable land management
- Analyse the cultural, ethical and legal considerations related to the use of plant and microbial/fungal resources
- Propose innovative solutions to current challenges associated with plant conservation and management
- Apply hands-on laboratory and field techniques for studying plants, and effectively communicate scientific information to diverse audiences
- A week-by-week guide to the topics you will explore in this subject will be provided in your study materials.
The fascinating world of plants consists of incredible diversity in species and vital ecosystem functions that enable our planet to function. Through a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, and fieldwork, this unit explores the classification, diversification, evolution, and adaptations of plants across different habitats and ecosystems. By delving into plant anatomy, physiology, and reproductive strategies, students will gain a deep understanding of how plants acquire and utilise resources, interact with their environment, and contribute to ecosystem functioning. This unit provides a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationships between plants in various ecosystems, and their impact on nutrient cycling and ecosystem processes. Skills gained in plant experimentation can be applied to careers in microbiology, ecology, environmental science, and biotechnology.
- Laboratory Report (25%)
- Scientific Poster (15%)
- Practical Examination (30%)
- Final Examination (30%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
This research-intensive university in north-western Sydney offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. With over 44,000 current students, Macquarie has a strong reputation for welcoming international students and embracing flexible and convenient study options, including its partnership with Open Universities Australia.
Learn more about Macquarie University.
Explore Macquarie courses.
- QS Ranking 2024:
- 10
- Times Higher Education Ranking 2024:
- 10
Entry requirements
Prior study
You must have successfully completed the following subject(s) before starting this subject:
Additional requirements
- Attendance requirements - Fieldwork (2 days)
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.
What to study next?
Once you’ve completed this subject it can be credited towards one of the following courses
UndergraduateMAQ-BSC-DEG
Single subject FAQs
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