Program Overview

Zoology with Foundation Year BSc (Hons)

Course Description

This hands-on course, including fieldwork and placement opportunities, will give you the intellectual and practical skills needed to understand the complexities of the animal kingdom, such as behaviour, ecology, conservation and genetics.

Why Study Zoology at Derby?

• Fieldwork opportunities in the UK and overseas - the costs of mandatory trips are included in your course fee
• Facilities include an Aquatic Research Facility, glasshouse, insectary, and specialist laboratories
• Tailor to your career ambitions through a range of modules
• Learn from research-active lecturers - current research includes coral reef conservation, the evolution of primate behaviour, and climate change
• The content of this course is aligned to the priorities of global initiatives, like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
• This course was one of the first of its kind in the country to receive accreditation from the Royal Society of Biology - we also have accredited degree pathway status from the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management
• Gain practical experience through placements and internships with our partner organisations. This course can be studied with or without an Industrial Placement Year

Foundation Year

Including a foundation year as part of your four-year study programme will give you a head start in your academic and professional life. The foundation year offers the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence – with extensive support from our expert staff – before you advance to stage one of your honours degree. It could also be beneficial if you are planning a career change and want to get to grips with aspects of subjects which are new to you.

Expert Teaching

As a Zoology student at the University of Derby you'll be working with lecturers and tutors who have a wealth of knowledge and experience, and are carrying out research designed to offer fresh perspectives on important issues. Their wide-ranging work includes research into:

• Improving the resilience of coral reefs to climate change
• The evolution of primates
• Insect reproduction and behaviour
• Animal ecology
• Coral Reef systems and megafauna

Far-Reaching Research

You'll learn from a research-active teaching team who are pursuing important studies into diverse topics including the evolution of animal mating strategies, disease-causing agents in corals, bioremediation of freshwater ecosystems, the welfare of captive orangutans, and the genetics and conservation of natterjack toads.

Strong Employer Links

You’ll benefit from excellent opportunities for work experience and internships through our partnerships with organisations like Sea Life, Derby Museums and the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust. We encourage you to undertake work experience throughout your degree to gain real insights into zoology and related areas.

Careers

Our focus is on ensuring you develop strong intellectual, technical and personal skills to build an impressive CV and meet the needs of employers. With opportunities for internships, volunteering and placements, our hands-on approach to study will ensure you’re ready for the world of work.

Recent graduates have gone on to work in areas such as:

• Zoos and wildlife parks
• Wildlife trusts
• RSPCA
• Environment Agency
• Veterinary practices
• Conservation
• Teaching
• Scientific Civil Service

Entry Requirements

• UCAS points: 72
• A Level: DDD
• T Level: Pass
• BTEC: MMP
• GCSE: GCSE Maths and English are preferred, however if you don't have these qualifications you will be able to undertake Maths and English at Level 2 as part of your course of study
• Access to HE: Pass Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 with a minimum of Distinction: 0, Merit: 30, Pass: 15
• English language requirements: IELTS: 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each skills area)

Fees and Funding

• UK: £9,535 per year (2025/26)
• International: £16,900 per year (2025/26)

Additional Costs and Optional Extras

• Included in your fees:
  • All equipment and consumables needed for your experimental/ fieldwork are provided by the University. Consumables for the Independent Study, subject to costing approval by your Programme Leader
  • Free membership of the Royal Society of Biology for a year after graduation
  • Residential fieldtrips in compulsory modules, previous destinations have included Tenerife and Majorca. Mandatory day fieldtrips in optional modules: previous destinations have included Kew Gardens, Sea Life Centre and the Peak District
  • Students studying the three year course will receive free membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) during their studies until they graduate
• Mandatory costs not included in your fees:
  • If not already owned, appropriate footwear for fieldwork such as Wellington/Walking boots - approximate cost is between £10-£100
  • If not already owned, appropriate outdoor clothing such as a waterproof jacket and trousers - approximate cost is between £50-£100
• Optional costs not included in your fees:
  • Recommended textbooks - approximate cost is £60
  • Additional international fieldtrip costs for optional modules as follows: Tropical Marine Biology L6 (Maldives) - approximate cost is £3,000
  • Travel to work experience/placements - cost is dependent on your placement venue of choice

How to Apply

• UK students: Apply through UCAS or directly to the University
• International students: Apply through our online application portal or through one of our trusted local representatives

Discover Uni

• 77% say staff value students views and opinions about the course
• 92% of students say teaching staff have supported their learning well
• 80% in work or doing further study 15 months after the course

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