Program Overview

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Overview

Our course, accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, aims to inspire you through the study of animals (including humans) at every level, from their DNA right up to their role in ecosystems. A range of optional modules taught by leaders in their field will allow you to tailor the course to your interests. It is possible to switch to an integrated four-year master's course (MSci), depending on your grades in the second year.

Course Details

Qualification

BSc Hons

Entry Requirements

AAB

UCAS Code

C300

Duration

3 years full-time

Fees

£9,535

Start Date

September 2025

Course Structure

Year 1

• Genes, Molecules and Cells
• Life on Earth
• Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour
• Core Skills in Biology, Genetics & Zoology
• Human Physiology
• Fundamentals of Neuroscience
• Hallmarks of Cancer
• Causes and Consequences of Cancer

Year 2

• Higher Skills in the Biological Sciences
• Evolutionary Biology of Animals
• The Genome and Human Disease
• Behavioural Ecology Field Course
• Biodiversity Field Course
• Ecology
• Animal Behaviour and Physiology
• Building Brains
• Biological Photography and Imaging I
• Developmental Biology
• Insect Biology
• Infection and Immunity
• Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics
• Reproductive Physiology
• Neurobiology of Disease

Year 3

• Zoology Research Project
• Science and Society
• Advances in Immunology
• Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
• Biological Photography and Imaging II
• Evolution and Behaviour
• Evolutionary Ecology
• Conservation Genetics
• Molecular Parasitology
• Social Insect Biology
• Molecular Evolution: Constructing the Tree of Life
• Conservation
• Ageing, Sex and DNA Repair
• Cancer Biology
• Common and Complex Diseases
• Aquatic Biology
• Current Topics in Development and Genetics
• Pathogens: Vaccines and Therapeutics
• Molecular Virology and Pathogenesis

Practical Work

You will gain experience in a range of laboratory and field work techniques from your first semester onward. Local and optional international fieldwork will include activities such as:

• Behavioural ecology field course in Portugal
• Biodiversity field course in France
• Final year projects on behaviour, conservation and evolution in diverse species

Language Study

You may be able to choose to study a language as part of this degree.

Assessment

Assessment varies on the module being studied but typically is a combination of:

• Examinations
• Dissertation
• Presentations
• Coursework
• Formative assessments
• Poster presentations
• Practical write-ups
• Research project

Careers

You will have a broad understanding of the biology of animals, at both the organismal and the molecular level, and will have had the opportunity to focus on your particular areas of interest. Your final year project will have given you the freedom to pursue a specific research area of interest. The combined knowledge and skills gained from all years of your undergrad degree will prepare you for either further study or a career in many varied industries including:

• Conservation and Zoos
• Ecological Consultancy
• Graduate Veterinary Programmes
• Animal Care Sector
• Teaching
• Science Communications and Journalism
• University Research
• Wildlife Film-making and Photography
• Scientific Governmental Agencies

Contact Time and Study Hours

Approximately 18 hours of contact time per week split between tutorials, lectures and practicals, with 18 hours of self study. You will be in a tutor group of no more than 7 students. Varying class sizes.