Zoology with Foundation Year

Why this course:

• We are ranked 1st in London for student satisfaction in Zoology (National Student Survey 2024)
• 1st in London for Teaching, Learning Opportunities and Resources (National Student Survey 2024)
• Best modern university in the UK for Zoology (Guardian University Guide 2024)

About this course:

Studying Zoology is integral to addressing global challenges. Get the specialist, practical skills in developing solutions for a sustainable and harmonious coexistence between humans and the natural world.

Skills:
You’ll gain a strong foundation in the science behind animal behaviour, ecology, and evolution. During your time with us, you’ll explore:

• How to solve real-world problems related to conservation and sustainability through developing scientific and critical thinking skills.
• Hands on experience through fieldwork, laboratory research and data analysis to develop practical skills for a career.
• Ethical awareness, professional values and teamwork skills necessary for success in the workplace.

Career opportunities:
Our graduates go on to work in different specialisms within zoology, such as:

• Veterinary science
• Conservation (e.g., ecological consultancy)
• Animal research
• Roles influencing policy e.g. sustainability officers
• Museum curator
  With our BSc Zoology degree, you can also continue to postgraduate study – or taking courses that prepare you for patient-facing healthcare professions.

During the foundation year, you will complete core modules in English and Mathematics, as well as an extended project which will develop your skills in carrying out research, using scholarly sources, drawing comparisons between your own research and that of others and documenting your findings. You will study two modules in Life Sciences which will give you the opportunity to explore methods of scientific thinking and reasoning in an enquiry-based way. You will also be introduced to key concepts in human physiology that are common cornerstones of the different degree programmes.

In your first year, you will explore the diversity of life on our planet, learning about the evolution and biology of vertebrate and invertebrate animals, vertebrate physiology, cell and plant biology, basic biochemistry, and how to analyse and interpret your data.

In your second year, you'll carry out further studies in key aspects of animal biology, building on the knowledge gained during your first year. You will have the option to take specialist modules on ecology, molecular biology and ethology, and develop a research proposal on a zoological topic of your choice. A residential field course in rural south Wales will provide you with a week-long immersion into field and lab data collection.

In your final year, you will undertake an independent research project during which you will collect original data. You will also take advanced modules of your choice that focus on key aspects of zoology such as animal cognition, aquatic biology, palaeoanthropology, and conservation. An optional self-funded module based in South Africa will provide you with an opportunity to observe wildlife and learn from the conservation experts based in the field.

To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:

• Course does not award QTS