Zoology

UCAS code: C300

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

Study animal life in terrestrial, marine and freshwater environments. Gain career-ready skills in behaviour, ecology, anatomy and molecular biology. Hands-on fieldwork and lab training prepare you for your career or further study in zoology.

Out in the field Study in one of the UK’s most diverse natural environments, with easy access to marine, freshwater and terrestrial habitats – plus options for overseas trips.

Hands-on lab experience 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.

Global placement opportunities Boost your career with an optional placement year and strong industry links—from the National Marine Aquarium to research centres in Kenya.

This course is for you if...

• you’re passionate about animals and want to explore how they evolve, behave and interact with their environment

• you want hands-on experience studying wildlife in natural habitats – from Devon’s coast to overseas field trips

• you're looking to gain practical skills in modern lab techniques, from molecular biology to ecological statistics

• you want to build a career in zoology, conservation, research, or animal welfare with the support of industry placements and expert staff.

Year 1 In your first year, you’ll build the essential scientific knowledge and practical skills that underpin the study of zoology. You’ll explore evolution, behaviour, physiology, microbiology and ecology, while developing confidence in experimental design, data interpretation and the principles of statistical analysis that support high?quality scientific research. Your learning will take place through a combination of lectures, tutorials and hands?on laboratory practicals, giving you a strong balance of theory and applied experience. You’ll also have the opportunity to take part in a field trip to southern Spain, or a local alternative, where you’ll study the ecology and behaviour of animals in their natural habitats, bringing your classroom learning to life in the field.

Year 2 In your second year, you’ll deepen your understanding of animal behaviour, comparative zoology, ecophysiology and phylogeny, while sharpening your skills in scientific investigation and analysis. You’ll also begin tailoring your studies towards your interests and career goals by choosing optional modules in areas such as conservation biology or the biology of marine organisms. A dedicated field course gives you the chance to apply what you’ve learned in lectures, strengthening your practical expertise and building the transferable skills that zoologists rely on in research and industry. Previous overseas field trips have spent 10 days studying the amazing range of wildlife found in Kenya.

Optional placement year Many of our students choose to take an optional placement year between their second and final years, gaining invaluable hands?on experience in real scientific environments. You can choose to complete a minimum six?month work placement at a company, conservation organisation or university anywhere in the world, gaining practical, career?focused experience directly linked to your zoology studies. This is your opportunity to apply your skills in real?world settings, explore potential career paths and build valuable professional networks that can help shape your future in the field.

Final year In your final year, you’ll shape your degree around the areas of zoology that excite you most. A wide selection of optional modules allows you to specialise in fields such behavioural ecology, global change biology, conservation physiology, and fish and fisheries. Alongside this, you’ll advance your understanding of key biological concepts, exploring themes such as speciation and the incredible diversity of life. A major component of your final year is your research project. Working under the supervision of an academic specialist, you’ll apply the knowledge, techniques and scientific understanding you’ve developed throughout your degree to an independent piece of research, giving you the chance to explore a topic you’re passionate about and demonstrate your capabilities as a zoologist.

For up to date details, please refer to our website or contact the institution directly.

For up to date details, please refer to our website or contact the institution directly.