The course introduces the concepts of biodiversity and briefly examines its components in Australia and globally. Factors which threaten biodiversity such as habitat loss, habitat degradation and exploitation, pollution and their biological consequences including extinctions are considered. Management tools are discussed covering both methods for assessing existing biodiversity and the methods and planning required to maintain it at appropriate levels.

Note: The course is available as an elective within the Masters, Graduate Diploma and Graduate Certificate in Environmental Management programs, and in other postgraduate programs within UNSW, or on its own as a short course. It is offered as an "on campus" intensive course in the winter break.