Biology and Ecology of Sharks and Their Relatives

Sharks are an ancient, biodiverse, ecologically important, and highly threatened group of animals. This class will provide a broad overview of their ecology, biology, and behavior, along with the scientific tools and methods used to study these aspects of their lives. Students will have a broad understanding of key issues in the field and the scientific methods needed to address them, as well as scientific problem solving and critical thinking skills.

An optional 3-day field experience in which students join instructor Dr. David Shiffman for hands-on shark research in South Florida is offered, with a maximum of ten students, at additional cost. Participants will live aboard the research vessel Garvin in Miami, Florida, where they will practice shark field research skills. They'll help catch, measure, tag, and sample sharks, learning a variety of field research skills.

Online Course:

• Learn at your own pace with instructor support (see Online Course Format Chart below for details).

• Fall: October 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (Early bird ends September 14th)

• From $425 depending on format. Early bird saves $75 on the online course 

Field Course (Optional, additional fee applies):

• November 11-13 in Miami, Florida.

• $1900 student/unemployed, $2100 professional. Costs include 3 nights of accommodation on the research vessel. Participants are responsible for their own travel to/from Miami.

• Pay $250 deposit now; remaining tuition due 30 days before the field course starts.

Module 1: Evolution, biology and taxonomy of sharks

Learning Outcome: List the different major groups of sharks, define sharks and contrast them with other groups of fish and other groups of marine life, and explain the evolutionary history of sharks. Identify common species of sharks, including those that will most likely be seen on the optional field trip.

Module 2:  Reproduction and life history of sharks

Learning Outcome: Explain and contrast the different reproduction and life history strategies used by sharks and discuss how these reproductive strategies impact shark conservation and sustainable fisheries management.

Module 3: Ecology, migration, and behavior of sharks

Learning Outcome: Define and compare different ecological roles played by sharks and examine what this means for arguments to conserve them, interpret management plans in the context of shark migratory behavior, and define key behaviors.

FORMAT:

3 months of access to course materials as you work at your own pace

Get instructor support for the 3-month term via email, discussion threads, group meetings, and one-on-one appointments

After working through the course materials, set up an optional meeting with the instructor to discuss your own personal project from work or school

CONTINUING EDUCATION:

16 CEUs with The Wildlife Society

CERTIFICATIONS:

Earn 1 credit toward certification as an Associate/Certified Wildlife Biologist® (at any level) with The Wildlife Society

FORMAT:

12 months of access to course materials as you work at your own pace

Get instructor support for the 3-month term via email, discussion threads, group meetings, and one-on-one appointments

After working through the course materials, set up an optional meeting with the instructor to discuss your own personal project from work or school

CONTINUING EDUCATION:

16 CEUs with The Wildlife Society

Go to our Continuing Education Page for more details

CERTIFICATIONS:

Earn 1 credit toward certification as an Associate/Certified Wildlife Biologist® (at any level) with The Wildlife Society

ACADEMIC CREDIT:

Earn 1 academic credit (go to our Academic Credit Page for details)

Earn an additional 1-2 academic credits with an Applied Project