Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - EVSC 495 D100

Special Topics in Environmental Science (3)

Ocean Bioacoustics

Class Number: 3501

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Mon, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A specific topic within the field of Environment not examined in depth in regular courses. This course will provide students with understanding, perspective and experience in emerging and important areas of environment. Variable units: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is designed to provide an overview of ocean acoustics and marine bioacoustics which is suitable for graduate students in the departments of environmental science, computer science, physics, biology and statistics.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Students should become familiar with all aspects of bioacoustic studies from collecting data with hydrophones to creating habitat metrics.
  • Students should develop basic proficiency with Python including Numpy and Pandas language.
  • Students will develop a library of code needed to answer questions pertaining to their own research. This includes:
    • Calibrating audio data collected in the field
    • Running transmission loss models
      • Ray tracing (Bellhop)
    • Creating calibrated noise metrics and knowing the relevance
      • SPL – sound pressure levels
      • TOL – third octave levels
      • SEL – sound exposure levels
  • Understanding the limitations of the tools, equipment, and analysis procedures.

Grading

  • Computational problems 30%
  • Student-led soundscape assignment 40%
  • Paper review and presentation 15%
  • Ocean acoustic instrumentation report and presentation 15%

Materials

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.