Zoology

UCAS code: C301

Here's what University of Lincoln says about its Zoology course.

The MBio Zoology degree at Lincoln is an exploration of how animals have evolved, how they function and the ways in which they interact with their environment. The course integrates anatomy, physiology, behaviour, ecology, evolution and conservation to provide a comprehensive understanding of species structure and diversity.

Humans have created a rapidly changing world to which animals have had to adapt. Understanding the amazing diversity of animals that share our planet helps us to understand our origins, as well as predict future evolution.

This degree aims to provide a broad understanding of the subject, encompassing the study of key aspects of modern zoology in a diverse range of invertebrates and vertebrates. You have opportunities to study animals in their natural habitat at key points during your studies. As you study, you will have the chance to develop skills in scientific methods and communication, which are invaluable in many workplaces.

The MBio comprises a four year programme building on the undergraduate programmes in the School of Life Sciences. The fourth year includes a research project, a module on research techniques and a module on transferrable skills for professional scientists.

In your first year studying Zoology, you will have the opportunity to develop a broad understanding of biological concepts, including genetics, evolution, ecology, anatomy and physiology. During the second year, more specialist modules cover vertebrate and invertebrate zoology, reproduction and development, and plant-animal interactions. You can choose from a selection of optional modules to align your studies with areas of particular interest to you. There is an emphasis on independent research in your final year and you will be expected to undertake a substantial research project, as well as modules, which aim to develop your critical scientific skills. Final year modules focus on developing your research skills further with workshops in research techniques. These combine demonstrations with hands-on work in-lab or in-field. You will participate in two residential field trips in the UK, enabling you to study animals in the wild as part of core modules in both the first and second year. There is also an overseas field trip available in your third year as part of the optional 'Overseas Field Course' module. For the most up to date module information, please visit the course page for this programme on our website. Some programmes provide you with the opportunity to focus your study in a particular area through optional modules. Timetabling arrangements may limit the availability of some optional modules to some students. As the options often reflect staff research interests, they may alter over time due to staff availability.

The way students will be assessed on this course will vary for each module. It could include coursework, such as a dissertation or essay, written and practical exams, portfolio development, group work or presentations to name some examples. Throughout this degree, students may receive tuition from professors, senior lecturers, lecturers, researchers, practitioners, visiting experts or technicians, and they may be supported in their learning by other students.