Demonstrate understanding of advanced concepts in paleontology, such as biostratigraphy, paleoecology, evolution, and taxonomy with respect to specific fossil taxa.

Be able to recognize the influence of physical and biological processes on fossils and be able to interpret a fossil's post-depositional history.

Be able to recognize and identify key fossil groups down to the genus and species level.

Be able to accurately determine the age, depositional setting, and diagenesis of sedimentary strata based upon fossil content and preservation.

Become familiar with techniques use by specialists in collecting, preparing, and curating a range of fossil taxa.