This short course will consist of a two day series of talks, ranging from whale and dolphin evolution and diversity, to behavior and adaptations, to the history of whaling and current conservation problems for these animals. The course will cover a variety of topics and areas including, but not limited to: whale and dolphin evolution; a review of the baleen whales and toothed whales; whale and dolphin adaptations to the marine environment; communication and intelligence; whales and folklore; the history of whaling; the International Whaling Commission; threats to dolphins and porpoises; and whale-watching. It is targeted at a wide audience, all are welcome.