BSc (Hons) - Zoology

Year one

Welcome to the world of zoology! Your adventure begins with a deep dive into the fascinating realms of molecular and cellular biology, animal form and function, and ecology. But that’s not all - you’ll also immerse yourself in conservation practice, exploring the diverse habitats in our region in your quest for wildlife.

From day one, we’ll guide you in developing a systematic approach to learning, understanding concepts and principles, and honing a range of subject-specific, cognitive, and transferable skills. You’ll learn to evaluate different problem-solving approaches and communicate your findings effectively. Plus, you’ll start to see the connections between your personal experiences, workplace scenarios, and academic resources in your field of study.

• Vertebrate Zoology
  Dive deep into the fascinating world of vertebrates, exploring their evolution and unique physiological traits. From the ancient fish to modern mammals, this module offers a comprehensive overview of all vertebrate groups that have ever existed, enriching your understanding of the animal kingdom.
  
• Invertebrate Zoology
  Discover the diverse and adaptable world of invertebrates, which make up the majority of animal species. This module highlights the evolutionary adaptations that have enabled invertebrates to thrive in various environments, providing essential knowledge for any aspiring zoologist.
• Ecology for Zoologists
  Examine the intricate interactions within ecosystems and their dynamic changes over time and space. This module explores population evolution, community development, and the pressing environmental challenges facing modern ecosystems, equipping you with a holistic understanding of ecological processes.
• Animal Form and Function
  Understand the myriad ways animals solve fundamental biological challenges. This module covers essential processes such as respiration, nutrition, excretion, and reproduction, as well as the diverse strategies animals use to escape predators and survive in their habitats.
• Animal Conservation Practice
  Engage with real-world conservation efforts through visits to significant habitats and species in the UK. This hands-on module includes site visits, discussions with conservation professionals, and seminars, offering a practical perspective on conservation work.
• Core Zoology
  Build a solid foundation in scientific zoology, encompassing cellular and molecular biology, genetics, and laboratory practices. Learn to construct detailed lab reports and communicate scientific findings effectively, preparing you for advanced research and professional practice.

Year two

As you step into your second year, you’ll begin to apply and evaluate key concepts and theories, both within their original context and beyond. You’ll select and deploy a range of skills to solve problems and generate fresh ideas. You’ll also learn to communicate information and arguments effectively in various forms.
This year, you’ll take ownership of your personal outcomes and reflect on your experiences in light of recent scholarship and current regulations. It’s all about taking your understanding to the next level!

• Exploring Research
  Develop essential research skills, from designing and conducting experiments to interpreting data. This module guides you through evaluating quantitative and qualitative methods, ensuring you can select the appropriate approach for your scientific inquiries.
  
• Zoological Monitoring Techniques
  Learn to design and implement monitoring programmes for various species in the field. This module focuses on conservation and economically significant species, enhancing your employability with practical, in-demand skills.
• Animal Behaviour
  Explore the science of animal behaviour, fundamental for managing animals both in captivity and the wild. This module introduces key concepts and their applications to animal welfare and conservation and builds the foundations for understanding behavioural ecology.
• Evolution and Biogeography
  Investigate the mechanisms behind the current patterns of biodiversity. This module fosters an appreciation for evolutionary theory as the cornerstone of life sciences, exploring the processes that shape the distribution and diversity of life on Earth.
• British Wildlife
  Gain expertise in British wildlife, crucial for careers in UK animal conservation. This module emphasises species identification, observation techniques, and understanding ecological and behavioural aspects of native species.
• Applied Zoology
  Undertake a specialised field investigation during a week-long residential trip to diverse habitats. This module integrates data analysis and theoretical knowledge, allowing you to apply your learning to real-world zoological research.

Year three

In your final year, you’ll showcase your ability to critically review, consolidate, and extend a systematic and coherent body of knowledge. You’ll critically evaluate concepts and evidence from a variety of sources, applying your subject-specific, cognitive, and transferable skills to a range of situations and solving complex problems along the way.

You’ll learn to communicate solutions, arguments, and ideas clearly in various forms. You’ll exercise judgement in a variety of situations and take accountability for your personal and group outcomes. Plus, you’ll reflect critically and analytically on your experiences in light of recent scholarship and current regulations.
This is your year to shine, to demonstrate your mastery, and to prepare for the exciting career that awaits you after graduation!

• Dissertation
  Choose a research project on a topic that really interests you. This module will help you develop your research and project management skills. You'll work on a meaningful piece of work that shows off what you’ve learned and what you can do. This experience will set you up for success in the field of zoology.
  
• Professional Skills in Zoology
  Prepare for a professional career in zoology by mastering practical and core skills. This module consolidates your knowledge and applies it to new contexts, such as drafting funding bids, ensuring you are ready to enter the workforce as a competent zoologist.
• Behavioural Ecology
  Delve into behavioural ecology, studying the evolutionary reasons behind animal behaviours. This module examines how different behaviour patterns have evolved to enhance individual fitness, providing insights into the adaptive significance of animal behaviour.
• Entomology and Parasitology (Optional)
  Dive into the fascinating world of insects and parasites, exploring their incredible diversity in body forms, physiological adaptations, and lifestyles. This module will equip you with essential skills for surveying and identifying a wide range of taxa, offering insights into their unique evolutionary paths and roles in various ecosystems.
• Behavioural Applications for Conservation (Optional)
  Engage in dynamic case studies, seminars, and debates to explore how animal behaviour can be applied to conservation and management. This module enhances your critical thinking, analytical skills, and communication abilities, providing practical insights into how understanding behaviour can improve conservation strategies and animal population management.
• Population and Community Ecology (Optional)
  Understand the dynamics of managing animal populations for conservation, exploitation, or control. This module covers essential principles and methods of population ecology, giving you a solid foundation in how populations and communities function. You'll gain practical knowledge crucial for effective zoological studies and environmental management.