Zoology, BSc (Hons), with industry placement

Course summary

Zoology is the science of animals. In this course, you will develop an understanding of all aspects of animal biology in terrestrial, marine and freshwater environments. You will gain in-depth knowledge of animal ecology and evolution, and develop the key lab skills in animal behaviour, molecular biology, physiology, and cellular biology that are sought after by employers and are necessary for postgraduate education.You will gain key practical experience in diverse laboratory and field practicals across your studies and have the opportunity to participate in residential field courses in years one and two, giving you first-hand experience of a range of ecosystems. Recent field course locations include Slapton in Devon and Kenya.

• Study the biology of animals in marine, terrestrial and freshwater aquatic habitats. A spectacular range of these habitats are right on our doorstep.

• Gain a strong foundation in theoretical aspects of ecology, physiology, anatomy, behaviour, evolution and genetics.

• Develop high-level laboratory skills across animal biology in a wide range of taxa and habitats and gain key transferable skills that are sought after by employers.

• Undertake in-depth field studies of animals, which could include residential courses in the UK and abroad or alternatives that develop field techniques and familiarity with a wide range of ecosystems and fauna.

• Undertake self-study throughout your course, using our well-equipped library and range of online scientific journals, as well as LABPlus, our unique laboratory and resource centre designed for science and engineering students.

• Have the opportunity to boost your employability by taking a placement year between your second and final years of study, working in the industry, anywhere in the world – you can read more about this in the 'course details' section of this page.

• Undertake an extended personal research project on a range of topics, often linked to ongoing staff research, in your final year.

• Benefit from our strong links with external organisations such as the Wildlife Trusts, the Natural History Museums in London and Plymouth, the National Marine Aquarium, the Field Studies Council, Whitley Wildlife Trust, the Donkey Sanctuary and Dartmoor National Park.

• Explore a range of contemporary issues in zoology.

In your first year, you'll learn the core skills and fundamental science required to be able to study zoology. Study evolution, behaviour, physiology, microbiology and ecology, whilst developing your skills in experimental design and interpretation. Understand the importance of statistical analyses in scientific studies. You'll gain these skills and through a mix of lectures, tutorials and laboratory practicals. You'll also have the possibility to undertake a field trip to Slapton Ley in South Devon or an alternative to study the ecology and behaviour of organisms in the wild. In your second year, you'll develop a deeper understanding of animal behaviour, comparative zoology, ecophysiology, phylogeny and scientific investigation skills. You'll also tailor your skills ready for the workplace, by specialising through optional modules in conservation biology or the biology of marine organisms. A field course will allow you to put skills and knowledge gained in the lectures to us, developing your practical and transferable skills. All students on our degrees have the option of undertaking a (minimum of 6 month) work placement at a company or university anywhere in the world undertaking some kind of work (usually research-based) relating to their programme of study. Your personal research project forms a major part of your final year. Alongside this, you’ll build on advanced skills and concepts in biological disciplines as well as considering speciation and the diversity of life. You’ll select modules from a range of options including behavioural ecology, global change biology, conservation physiology, fish and fisheries and animal welfare which will allow you to tailor your studies and prepare you as a zoologist ready to move onto the workplace or further study.