Introduction
Explore and understand the diversity of animal biology – from amoeba to zebras, and from world-class zoos to the rainforests of Africa and beyond – with our BSc (Hons) Zoology BSc (Hons) degree in Cambridge.
Our Zoology BSc (Hons) course will see you joining the likes of Charles Darwin, Dian Fossey, Jane Goodall and David Attenborough in exploring and explaining the diversity of animals from all over the globe.
You’ll build an understanding and skill-set in anatomy and physiology, behaviour, genetics, ecology and evolution, and the importance of wildlife conservation.
As part of your studies, you’ll get the opportunity to learn hands-on zoology skills – with plenty of time in our labs in Cambridge, as well as on field trips around the UK and beyond. Develop the scientific training and practical skills you need for a career in wildlife conservation, environmental consultancy or in zoos.
Recognised by the Royal Society of Biology, our BSc (Hons) Zoology degree is a practical subject with plenty of opportunity to learn and practise new skills, both in the lab and out in the field.
Take part in cutting-edge research in our specialist labs, closely linked to Cambridge University, and study zoology in marine and terrestrial systems, in both laboratory and field settings.
There are opportunities to attend residential field trips. Field trips that are a compulsory part of your course are covered by your fees. There are also optional field trips (either extra-curricular or an integral part of an optional module you select to take) that you would have to pay for.
Fast becoming a world centre for wildlife conservation, Cambridge is home to Fauna and Flora International, Birdlife International and the World Conservation Monitoring Centre. During your time with us, you’ll have opportunities to attend lectures and visit specialist museums and libraries in the University of Cambridge.
As a student here, you’ll learn from staff who are involved in field and captive studies internationally and in the UK, and have research links with a range of organisations including some of Britain’s most respected zoos.
TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT
Year 1
In the first year of your Zoology degree, you’ll be introduced to the study of animal behaviour as well as its relation to ecology and conservation. You’ll take a deeper look into the form and function of animals alongside evolution and biodiversity, to explore the origins of life and the adaptations animals have made to suit their world.
You’ll also equip yourself with an understanding of how to interpret and present biological information, through the use of statistics and computing software.
Your studies won’t just be focused on mammals; we’ll also look at birds, amphibians and reptiles, with some focus on species found in Britain. We’ll consider how animals live, and face challenges such as invasive species, climate change and habitat loss. And you can take part in local field trips, visiting nature reserves and seeing a major grey seal colony.
Throughout the course, we’ll use a range of assessment methods to measure your progress. Besides exams, these include essays, practical reports, computer-based assessments, presentations, debates, classroom- or laboratory-based tests, and reviews of scientific papers.
Modules are subject to change and availability.
Year 2
In Year 2, you’ll continue to develop your research skills, both in the laboratory as part of your regular studies and out in the field during a week-long residential field course.
You’ll also further develop your understanding of the biology of vertebrates and invertebrates with a focus on the classification, function and evolution of these types of animals. Alongside this deeper look at animal biology, you will also explore the principles of genetics and evolution.
There’s also the opportunity to choose between a number of optional modules and hone your knowledge even further, including a more focused look at animal health, the biology and behaviour of mammals, and species distribution – with a focus on the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software.
Throughout the course, we’ll use a range of assessment methods to measure your progress. Besides exams, these include essays, practical reports, computer-based assessments, presentations, debates, classroom- or laboratory-based tests, and reviews of scientific papers.
Modules are subject to change and availability.
Year 3
The final year of your Zoology degree sees you undertaking a Major Project: a substantial piece of individual research focused on a topic of your choice. You’ll identify problems and issues, evaluate information, and present your findings using a variety of media.
Alongside this project, wildlife conservation will be at the forefront of your studies. We’ll also focus on physiology and development, and how living organisms adapt to suit their environment.
Much like Year 2, you can take optional modules to focus on areas of particular interest to you. These include wildlife management, animal welfare, marine biology and animal communication. Some optional modules are built around exciting field trips, one being a trip to study zoos in mainland Europe, with a second being focused on ecology and conservation in Africa, and a third based on marine biology in Scotland.
Throughout the course, we’ll use a range of assessment methods to measure your progress. Besides exams, these include essays, practical reports, computer-based assessments, presentations, debates, classroom- or laboratory-based tests, and reviews of scientific papers.
Modules are subject to change and availability.
Facilities and accreditation
Outstanding facilities and opportunities
As a student at ARU, you’ll be able to take advantage of:
- state-of-the-art laboratory facilities including a 200-station biosciences laboratory in our Science Centre
- the opportunity to join hands-on field trips – you could even learn to scuba dive and gain the internationally recognised PADI Open Water Dive certification
- the chance to gain experience and build your employability skills on an optional placement year
- award-winning IT and library facilities.
Royal Society of Biology
Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, our degree course offers an integrated, scientific approach with hands-on experiences.
Tropical Biology Association
We’re a member of the Tropical Biology Association, which offers training, support and networking opportunities for professionals working in conservation.
Careers
Our BSc (Hons) Zoology degree will open up a world of professional careers relating to the biology of animals. You could choose to work in the field, in the laboratory, or both – anywhere in the world.
After graduating, you might want work for a zoo, a wildlife conservation organisation or even an education or research establishment. Our students have gone to work for leading zoos, local wildlife trusts, and fieldwork and research teams in exciting places from Costa Rica to Africa.
Whichever path you follow, you can be sure you’re graduating with the knowledge, skills and abilities that employers need. They help us review what we teach and how we teach it – and they offer hands-on, practical opportunities to learn through work-based projects, internships or placements.
As a graduate of this course, you’ll be able to apply for membership of the Zoological Society of London, the Royal Society of Biology, and other professional organisations.
Graduation doesn’t need to be the end of your time with us, of course. You might decide to stay at ARU and study for a Masters, such as our renowned MSc Applied Wildlife Conservation or our MSc Animal Behaviour: Applications for Conservation. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and get 20% off your fees.
