Zoology

University of Derby
Undergraduate BSc (Hons) Full-time 3 Years Zoology

A-Level Entry

ABB

UCAS Points

128 points

Avg. Graduate Salary

£22,000

About this course

Interested in protecting endangered species, safeguarding habitats or encouraging greater understanding of animals in the wild and in captivity? Our degree helps you build the intellectual, professional, personal and technical skills you need.

KEY FEATURES OF THE COURSE:

  • ACCREDITATION: Our Zoology course was one of the first of its kind in the country to receive accreditation from the Royal Society of Biology, an accolade which carries significant weight within the sector and is only granted after a rigorous independent assessment. We also have accredited degree pathway status from the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).

  • IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE: Focusing on animal biology, our Zoology course covers a broad range of topics such as wildlife conservation, ecology and animal behaviour. You’ll also cover the sciences that underpin genetics, biochemistry and statistics.

  • TAILORED TO YOU: Our extensive range of optional modules allows you to tailor the course to meet your career ambitions.

  • FACILITIES: Develop vital scientific skills in our high-spec laboratories, insectary, aquatic research facility (created in partnership with SeaLife, Birmingham) and dedicated student research lab. A Bioscience Superlab is opening in 2025, which will give students the chance to study in an innovative, inspiring and interdisciplinary facility.

  • FIELDWORK WITH PURPOSE: Our Zoology students have conducted ecological projects in Majorca, and undertaken scientific investigations in the Maldives. Costs of mandatory fieldtrips in optional modules are included in your tuition fees.

  • RAISE YOUR PROFILE IN INDUSTRY: You’ll have the opportunity to undertake work placements with a broad range of employers from zoos and wildlife parks to museums, conservation organisations, ecological consultancies and government bodies. You could also get involved in voluntary work with Zoology related industries and the wider community, contributing to initiatives which help safeguard local nature sites and improve the region's green spaces.

  • EXPERT TEACHING: You’ll learn from a research-active and dedicated teaching team, many of whom speak at global conferences, publish influential papers and serve on the editorial boards of scientific journals.

    WHAT YOU'LL COVER:

  • Your first year provides an introduction to themes such as biodiversity and ecophysiology, genetics and evolution and ecology. In your second and third years, we take your knowledge to an advanced level by exploring subjects such as microbial ecology, habitat management, field biology, wildlife conservation, tropical marine biology, and ecological consultancy.

    HOW YOU'RE ASSESSED:

  • Assessments vary and include computer-based assessments, scientific posters, oral presentations, professional reports, essays, making short videos, fieldwork and laboratory reports, as well as traditional written examinations.

    YOUR CAREER:

  • Our focus is on ensuring you develop strong intellectual, technical and personal skills to build an impressive CV and meet the needs of employers. Recent graduates have gone on to work in zoos, wildlife parks, wildlife trusts, ecology, marine science, the Environment Agency, veterinary practices and environmental consultancy. In addition, our zoology course provides an excellent preparation if you would like to move on to further study, including medical qualifications, a masters degree or a PhD.

    STUDY OPTIONS:

  • This course is available with a Foundation Year option.

  • This course is available with an Industrial Placement Year.
  • Entry Requirements

    A-Level Grades ABB
    UCAS Tariff Points 128 points
    BTEC DDM

    Career Prospects

    Graduates from this course typically go into the following occupations:

    3111 Laboratory technicians
    2113 Biochemists and biomedical scientists
    1211 Managers and proprietors in agriculture and horticulture
    2112 Biological scientists
    2483 Environmental health professionals
    1212 Managers and proprietors in forestry, fishing and related services

    Course Details

    Qualification
    Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)
    Study Mode
    Full-time
    Duration
    3 Years
    Start Date
    2025
    Academic Year
    2025
    Campus / Location
    Derby
    Scheme
    Undergraduate
    Subjects
    Zoology
    Avg. Graduate Salary
    £22,000