BSc Zoology

fish

Undergraduate Available in Clearing

BSc Zoology

Explore all aspects of animal life, from sub-cellular level to ecosystems, in a course designed for 21st-century scientists.

Key information

Study mode

Full-time

Course length

3 years

Entry requirements

N/A

See requirements

UCAS code

C300

Choose an option

Start date

Course overview

Our zoology degree explores all animal life from the sub-cellular level to entire ecosystems. We combine traditional zoology and contemporary biology in a course for 21st-century scientists.

You control the emphasis of your studies depending on what you're most interested in. You can follow your passions by choosing to specialise in fields like conservation biology, animal behaviour, evolutionary genetics or physiology.

Learning in the field is an integral part of the course. You'll have opportunities for residential field trips: recent destinations have included Scotland, Mallorca, Malaysia and Brazil.

Apply now through clearing

01482 462236 Apply online

6 reasons to study Zoology at Hull

  1. Fieldwork opportunities overseas and in the UK*
  2. Staff include three RSB Teachers of the Year
  3. 95% graduate employability rating†
  4. Opt to learn to scuba dive as part of your degree§
  5. Follow your passions with wide choice of modules
  6. Facilities include a 33,000-litre aquarium

What you'll study

The course consists of 120 credits per year. Most modules are 20 credits, meaning you’ll study six modules each year. Some longer modules, such as a dissertation, are worth more (e.g. 40 credits). In these cases, you’ll study fewer modules - but the number of credits will always add up to 120.

First year modules

  • Compulsory

    Diversity of Life

    ​This module introduces you to the diversity of life and the fascinating adaptations that enable organisms to inhabit nearly all conceivable ecological niches. Practical workshops will give you first-hand experience in studying living and preserved plants and animals, and you’ll learn basic microbiological techniques. ​

    Practical Biology

    ​This module introduces key general learning skills and essential practical skills required for a degree in the biological sciences. Develop the research, communication, data analysis, presentation, laboratory and field skills ready to succeed in your chosen subject.​

    Cells and Organelles

    Explore the fascinating inner workings of cells, giving you a foundation in areas such as cell biology, molecular biology and biochemistry. Consider topics such as cancer biology, how cells respond to hormones, and how proteins are regulated. Learn how to use equipment in research laboratories and design, carry out and write up your own experiment.

    Principles of Genetics

    Explore core genetic concepts leading to an understanding of how genetics underlies the biological and molecular traits observed in organisms. You will cover gene and chromosome structure, DNA replication, mechanisms of transcription and translation, genetic inheritance, genetic variation, and the principles behind techniques used to analyse the genome.

    Ecology and Evolution

    ​This modules introduces you to the evolutionary and ecological processes you need in order to understand biology. You’ll cover topics such as the genetic basis of evolution, natural selection, animal behaviour, population biology and ecosystem ecology.​

  • Optional

    Science Communication

    Communicating science effectively is a skill you will need during your degree and beyond. This module allows you to learn theory and practise communicating a topic related to your degree, in a range of ways for a range of audiences.

    Dive Training

    ​Do you want to learn to dive? In this module you can train to PADI Advanced Open Water Diver and develop specialist diving skills including: underwater navigation, deep diving, photography, and underwater naturalist.​

Second year modules

  • Compulsory

    Professional and Research Skills for Biologists

    Develop key experimental design and data analysis skills necessary for your degree. You’ll learn how to identify and evidence your skills and experience to help you secure employment in the future.

    Animal Form and Function

    The module provides an integrated view of animal biology by showing how ecology shapes morphology, physiology and behaviour in different animals and across different environments, including marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

  • Optional

    Evolutionary Biology

    Explore the development of modern ideas in evolutionary biology, and their importance for understanding a variety of fundamental biological processes. You’ll study a range of different topics, including genetic techniques in evolution, phylogenetics, population process and natural selection in the wild.​

    Fish Ecology

    Develop a detailed understanding of fisheries science covering taxonomy, distribution, growth, mortality, population dynamics, feeding, reproduction, parasites and predation. The module is under-pinned by theoretical and practical exercises, allowing you to understand key fisheries assessment methods used globally.

    Behavioural Ecology

    Develop your understanding of why wild animals behave the way they do. You’ll study the proximate and ultimate causes of behaviour, and the interactions between animals and their environment.

    Conservation Biology

    In this module, you will begin by studying patterns of biodiversity and the characteristics of different ecosystems, and go on to explore patterns of biogeography. You’ll examine current threats to biodiversity and the characteristics, such as life-history, ecology and distribution that make some species more vulnerable than others.

    Aquatic Zoology

    Explore the major taxonomic groups in the marine environment, focussing on taxonomy, diagnostic characteristics and funky features. You’ll carry out practical observations of fish, squid, crustaceans, annelids and nematodes, and improve your skills in taxonomy and identification.​

    Geographical Information Systems

    Develop your understanding of the principles and processes behind GIS, the nature and use of spatial data and the application of GIS on this practical module.

    Genetic Analysis

    Takes a problem-based approach to understanding modern molecular genetics and genomics of eukaryotes. You will become accustomed to modern methods of laboratory investigation, genetic data analysis and debate-current discoveries.

    Intertidal Systems

    Here we look at the temporal and spatial factors affecting composition and productivity of intertidal systems, and the sustainability of intertidal resources. Develop your field sampling and laboratory identification skills and apply them in an intertidal monitoring context.

Final year modules

  • Choose one

    Independent Research Project

    You will have the unique opportunity to work on your own lab-based project alongside researchers. You'll have direct input into experimental design and will analyse your data before writing it up in a dissertation. For many students, this is the highlight of their degree, as it's a chance to show off their skills in a real-world environment.

    Structured Research Project

    Undertake a collaborative research project, working with a team of other students to investigate research questions relevant to your degree. Projects have included DNA barcoding of biodiversity, sensory physiology and animal responses to ocean acidification, and pollution monitoring of the Humber Estuary.

    Biology in Education

    Thinking about teaching as a career? Undertake placements in local schools and deliver your own science lesson.

  • Optional

    Sensory Physiology of Animals

    Discover the fascinating world of animal communication to learn how sensory systems control behaviour, and how this is applied to and affected by human activity, including climate change.

    Freshwater Fisheries and Conservation

    Develop an understanding of the status and importance of freshwater fisheries worldwide. You will learn how humans impact on freshwater fisheries, rehabilitation processes, conservation methods and legislative instruments all used to protect and develop fisheries.

    Field Studies

    ​Explore somewhere new and learn new field-based skills on one of our residential field trips (a financial contribution is required).  Destinations vary but recent students have selected from a dive-based trip in Malaysia, an exploration of the Atlantic rainforest in Brazil, Mediterranean ecology in Mallorca and UK ecology at Malham Tarn.  ​

    Applied Ecology

    Should we focus conservation of species based on their importance or their vulnerability? How much is a coral reef worth and is it more valuable than a mangrove? Why can’t we just stop things from going extinct? These kinds of questions are the foundation of this module. You'll consider how theoretical ecological concepts impact applied ecological processes such as conservation.

    Insect Biology

    Insects are among the most numerous, diverse and awesome creatures on the planet. An Aladdin's cave, bursting with weirdness, colour and intrigue. They are also among the most important animals - vital to ecosystems we depend on, but also wreaking terrible destruction. In a mix of lectures, workshops, practicals and fieldtrips, you will discover this amazing, crazy little world we’re lucky enough to study.

    Wildlife Management

    Study a range of key topics associated with the management of wildlife populations. You’ll explore topics such as sustainable harvesting, human-wildlife conflicts, wildlife disease, population management and decision making through case-studies such as tiger habitat conservation and the management of upland forests and roe deer populations.​

    Sex and Social Behaviour

    Evolutionary biology and behavioural ecology are taken to the next level in this module. You'll develop a deeper understanding of fascinating topics such as the evolution of sex, cryptic female choice, sperm competition, sexual conflict, parental care, brood parasitism, co-operative breeding and much more.

    Extinction

    Investigate and discuss questions on prehistoric, historical and contemporary extinctions, from genetic, evolutionary, ecological, paleoecological, geographical and geological perspectives.

    Practical Conservation

    Work in partnership with local environmentally orientated organisations to help further their objectives. You'll learn about the day-to-day practicalities of species and habitat management, population surveys, public engagement and promoting sustainable use of environmental resources.

All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.

How you'll study

Throughout your degree, you’re expected to study for 1,200 hours per year. That’s based on 200 hours per 20 credit module. And it includes scheduled hours, time spent on placement and independent study. How this time’s divided among each of these varies each year and depends on the course and modules you study.

Overall workload

264 hours

Scheduled study Scheduled hours typically include lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, and supervised laboratory and studio sessions.

936 hours

Independent study Independent study is the time outside your scheduled timetable, where you’ll be expected to study independently.

Indicative assessment proportions

52%
23%
25%
  • Examination

    Written assessment typically includes exams and multiple choice tests.

  • Practical

    Practical is an assessment of your skills and competencies. This could include presentations, school experience, work experience or laboratory work.

  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Overall workload

228 hours

Scheduled study Scheduled hours typically include lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, and supervised laboratory and studio sessions.

972 hours

Independent study Independent study is the time outside your scheduled timetable, where you’ll be expected to study independently.

Indicative assessment proportions

43%
13%
44%
  • Examination

    Written assessment typically includes exams and multiple choice tests.

  • Practical

    Practical is an assessment of your skills and competencies. This could include presentations, school experience, work experience or laboratory work.

  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Overall workload

120 hours

Scheduled study Scheduled hours typically include lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, and supervised laboratory and studio sessions.

1080 hours

Independent study Independent study is the time outside your scheduled timetable, where you’ll be expected to study independently.

Indicative assessment proportions

17%
9%
73%
  • Examination

    Written assessment typically includes exams and multiple choice tests.

  • Practical

    Practical is an assessment of your skills and competencies. This could include presentations, school experience, work experience or laboratory work.

  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Nadira-Hendarta
Nadira Hendarta Environmental Science

Why I chose Environmental Science at Hull

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Biology_with_Ecology

Field work

Exciting field work opportunities both in the UK and overseas destinations such as Brazil, Malaysia and Mallorca.

Dr Katherine Hubbard - teaching biological sciences

Foundation year

A foundation year is available to boost your skills and confidence if you do not quite meet our academic entry requirements.

Entry Requirements

Don't meet our requirements?

We offer a Foundation Year to boost your skills and knowledge – it’s a great way to make your way into higher education.

Switch to the foundation year

During Clearing we look at all of your qualifications and experience, not just your academic grades – you’re more than just letters on a page!

Some courses still do have requirements such as previous study in your subject area, or specific GCSE grades. Others have additional requirements such as an interview or a satisfactory DBS check.

Please call us now on 01482 462236 to find out if we have a course that’s suitable for you.

Don't meet our requirements?

We offer a Foundation Year to boost your skills and knowledge – it’s a great way to make your way into higher education.

Switch to the foundation year

If you require a Tier 4 student visa to study or if your first language is not English you will be required to provide acceptable evidence of your English language proficiency level.

This course requires academic IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each skill. See other English language proficiency qualifications accepted by this University.

If your English currently does not reach the University's required standard for this programme, you may be interested in one of our English language courses.

Visit your country page to find out more about our entry requirements.

Our teaching staff

Click and drag

Take a tour of the facilities

Check out our zoology facilities, including 33,000 litres of tropical aquariums.

Explore the virtual tour

Fees & funding

Home / EU

£9,250 per year*

International

£16,600 per year

*The amount you pay may increase each year, in line with inflation - but capped to the Retail Price Index (RPI).

UK and EU students can take out a tuition fee loan to cover the cost of their course, and UK students can take out a maintenance loan of up to £8,700 to cover living costs.

Substantial discounts are available for International students.  

More information on fees can be found in the Money section of the website.

Your tuition fees will cover most costs associated with your programme (including registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examination).

There are some extra costs that you might have to pay, or choose to pay, depending on your programme of study and the decisions you make. The list below has some examples, and any extra costs will vary.

  • Books (you’ll have access to books from your module reading lists in the library, but you may want to buy your own copies
  • Optional field trips
  • Study abroad (including travel costs, accommodation, visas, immunisation)
  • Placement costs (including travel costs and accommodation)
  • Student visas (international students)
  • Laptop (you’ll have access to laptops and PC’s on campus, but you may want to buy your own)
  • Printing and photocopying
  • Professional-body membership
  • Graduation (gown hire and photography)

Remember, you’ll still need to take into account your living costs. This could include accommodation, travel and food – to name just a few. 

Attainment
Scholarship

If you achieve

112 UCAS tariff points

from three A levels or equivalent, you could receive a reward of

£1,200

Find out more

An affordable city for students

From bills, to meals, to pints – you’ll find that your money goes a lot further in Hull.

Your future prospects

  • Biologist
  • Zoologist
  • Polar biologist
  • Conservationist
  • Fisheries officer
  • Environmental consultant

Many of our graduates go onto become professional biologists, laboratory officers, environmental consultants and microbiologists, often in diving-related positions.

They go into a diverse range of careers with employers such as RB, the Environment Agency, Natural England, wildlife trusts, and conservation agencies.

Open Day at University of Hull

Ready to apply?

You can apply for this course through UCAS. As well as providing your academic qualifications, you’ll be able to showcase your skills, qualities and passion for the subject.

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A place where we stand up to kings, do deals with the world and take a wrecking ball to the slave trade. A place where culture stands out and the phone boxes are a different colour. A place where we're free-thinking, independent and proud of it.

*Previous destinations include Brazil, Malaysia and Majorca (extra fees may be payable)

†Percentage of students from biological sciences subject area in work or further study within six months of graduating: UK domicile full-time first degree leavers; Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education survey for the academic year 2016/17, published by HESA 2018

‡Module options include PADI-certified Advanced Open Water Diver training (extra fee may be payable)