BSc (Hons) Zoology with Foundation Year

Program Overview

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BSc (Hons) - Zoology (With Integrated Foundation Year)

    Wildlife is an important part of all our lives. If you have a passion for learning about animals, animal care, and animal management, and are wondering how to become a zoologist, this exciting and hands-on BSc Zoology course will prepare you for a future defending the planet.


    ### Course Overview

    Our hands-on zoology course provides an understanding of wildlife monitoring techniques using professional equipment and covers a broad range of topics including evolution, ecology, and conservation.


    ### On this course you will...

    - Benefit from a strong practical component to our modules and an emphasis on skills to enhance employment, helping prepare you for becoming a zoologist following your university studies.
    - Experience Cumbria's unique natural environment for learning about wildlife, which provides a range of different habitats that are close enough to visit in a short walk or day trip.
    - Enjoy a zoology degree designed with the most relevant key issues in zoology at its heart, as we are one of the newest universities in the country.
    - Make use of our modern and well-equipped facilities, for example, our teaching laboratories.
    - Study zoology with a diverse range of modules that expertly weave together and map directly to our subject.


    ### Key Details

    - Recruiting to: UK / RoI / Settled in UK, EU / EEA / International
    - Course Location: Carlisle - Fusehill Street
    - Institute: Institute of Science and Environment
    - UCAS Code: C300
    - Delivery Style: In-Person
    - Course Duration: Full-time: 4 Years
    - Course Start Point: September
    - Award: BSc (Hons)


    ### Minimum entry requirements

    - 48 UCAS Tariff Points
    - GCSE English, Mathematics, and Science at grade 4/C or above.


    ### Tuition fees

    - £9,535 - UK (2025-2026)
    - £14,900 - International (2025-2026)


    ### What our students say

    - "One of the main reasons I chose the University of Cumbria was due to the gorgeous location. Carlisle has great transport links with the Lake District, Cumbrian coast, and Scotland." - Sophie Babbs, Zoology


    ### Related Courses

    - BSc (Hons) - Zoology
    - BSc (Hons) - Zoology (with Sandwich Year)


    ### Course Structure

    #### What you will learn

    You’ll gain an understanding of wildlife monitoring techniques using professional kit, and cover a broad range of topics including evolution, ecology, and conservation, with visits to a variety of habitats.


    ##### Year one

    - Essential University Skills 1
    - Essential Biology
    - Scientific Investigation
    - Essential University Skills 2
    - Essential Chemistry
    - Environmental Sciences


    ##### Year two

    - Vertebrate Zoology
    - Invertebrate Zoology
    - Ecology for Zoologists
    - Animal Form and Function
    - Animal Conservation Practice
    - Core Zoology


    ##### Year three

    - Exploring Research
    - Zoological Monitoring Techniques
    - Animal Behaviour
    - Evolution and Biogeography
    - British Wildlife
    - Applied Zoology


    ##### Year four

    - Dissertation
    - Professional Skills in Zoology
    - Behavioural Ecology
    - Entomology and Parasitology (Optional)
    - Behavioural Applications for Conservation (Optional)
    - Population and Community Ecology (Optional)


    ### Teaching & Assessment

    #### How you will learn

    Our degree course has been designed by professional zoologists with a real understanding of what the world needs from zoologists and what zoologists need to pursue a professional career.


    #### How you will be assessed

    Analysis of zoological data, writing of formal reports, and careful design of scientific methods particularly with regards animal surveying are all key transferable skills.


    ### Entry Requirements

    - GCSEs: English, Maths, and Science at C/4 or above.
    - A-levels: A - must have studied Biology or Applied Science at level 3.


    ### Funding

    - Fees for integrated foundation year are as stated.
    - For information about funding, please visit our undergraduate funding page.


    ### Additional Costs

    - Books: £50 - £100 per year
    - Stationery: £30 - £40 per year
    - Field trips: £0 - £1,000 per year

Program Outline

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BSc (Hons) Zoology (With Integrated Foundation Year) - University of Cumbria

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Degree Overview:

This program offers a hands-on approach to zoology, preparing students for a future in wildlife conservation and research. It provides a comprehensive understanding of animal biology, covering diverse topics like evolution, ecology, and conservation. The course is designed by professional zoologists with real-world knowledge and aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in zoology.

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Outline:

The BSc (Hons) Zoology (With Integrated Foundation Year) is a four-year program delivered full-time, with a start date in September. It is divided into four years of study:

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Year One:

• Essential University Skills 1: Focuses on academic and professional skills for effective learning and progression.
• Essential Biology: Introduces the fundamental principles of biology.
• Scientific Investigation: Explores protocols associated with scientific investigation.
• Essential University Skills 2: Expands learning in research, writing, and reflective learning.
• Essential Chemistry: Introduces the fundamental principles of chemistry.
• Environmental Sciences: Introduces field-based skills with interdisciplinary content relating Human Ecology to Toxicology, Public Health, Epidemiology, and Parasitology.

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Year Two:

• Vertebrate Zoology: Covers the evolution and physiological characteristics of all vertebrate groups.
• Invertebrate Zoology: Systematically reviews invertebrates, highlighting adaptations leading to their success.
• Ecology for Zoologists: Examines the interacting components of ecosystems and their dynamics.
• Animal Form and Function: Studies the range of adaptations animals have developed for essential functions, such as respiration, digestion, and reproduction.
• Animal Conservation Practice: Provides opportunities to visit conservation sites and learn from conservation professionals.
• Core Zoology: Develops skills in cellular and molecular biology, genetics, and lab practice.

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Year Three:

• Exploring Research: Develops skills in conceiving, designing, conducting, and interpreting scientific research.
• Zoological Monitoring Techniques: Teaches how to design and implement monitoring regimes for various species.
• Animal Behaviour: Introduces the science of animal behavior and its applications to welfare and conservation.
• Evolution and Biogeography: Explores the mechanisms that have generated current biodiversity patterns.
• British Wildlife: Focuses on identification skills and observation of British wildlife, including their ecology and behavior.
• Applied Zoology: Develops a specialist field investigation relevant to a chosen area of study.

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Year Four:

• Dissertation: Allows students to undertake an independent research project on a chosen topic.
• Professional Skills in Zoology: Provides a foundation in practical and core skills needed for a professional zoology career.
• Behavioural Ecology: Introduces an evolutionary approach to understanding animal behavior.
• Entomology and Parasitology (Optional): Explores the diversity of insects and parasites, including survey and identification skills.
• Behavioural Applications for Conservation (Optional): Focuses on how animal behavior can be applied to conservation and management.
• Population and Community Ecology (Optional): Provides a working knowledge of principles and methods for managing animal populations.

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Assessment:

The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Analysis of zoological data: This is a key transferable skill for various careers in biological sciences.
• Writing formal reports: Students are expected to write formal reports based on their research and observations.
• Careful design of scientific methods: Students learn how to design scientific methods, particularly for animal surveying.
• Formal work assessed throughout the degree: Assessment is ongoing, including lab books that document practical work, observations, and dissections.
• Personal development and reflective practice: Integrated into various activities and through the personal tutorial process.

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Teaching:

The program is delivered by a research-active team with expertise in animal behavior, ornithology, entomology, and applied zoology. Teaching methods include:

• Lectures: These provide a structured foundation of knowledge.
• Practical sessions: Hands-on learning through lab experiments, field trips, and wildlife observation.
• Seminars: Interactive discussions and presentations on specific topics.
• Tutored sessions: Individual or small group sessions for guidance and feedback.
• Fieldwork: This includes a fieldwork module in West Africa, where students can contribute to conservation efforts.

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Careers:

Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in a variety of fields, including:

• Wildlife conservation: Working with organizations focused on protecting and managing wildlife.
• Zoology research: Conducting research on animal biology and behavior.
• Animal management: Working in zoos, aquariums, or wildlife sanctuaries.
• Environmental consulting: Providing expert advice on environmental issues.
• Education: Teaching zoology or biology at various levels.
• Government agencies: Working with agencies involved in wildlife management and conservation.

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Other:

• The program provides excellent work placement opportunities through its strong links with animal and wildlife organizations.
• Students have the opportunity to engage in voluntary work with organizations like Cumbria Wildlife Trust, which can enhance their CV and provide hands-on experience.
• The University of Cumbria has modern and well-equipped facilities, including teaching laboratories.
This information highlights the program's comprehensive approach to zoology education, practical focus, and career-oriented design. It emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning, research, and professional development for students interested in pursuing a career in zoology and related fields.

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Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• UK: £9,250
• International: £13,575
The figures above don't include accommodation and living costs. Tuition fees are set annually and are subject to review each year. The University may therefore raise tuition fees in the second or subsequent years of a course, in line with inflation and/or the maximum permitted by law or Government policy. Students will be notified of any changes as soon as possible.