Program Overview

Introduction to BSc (Hons) Zoology

The BSc (Hons) Zoology degree at Manchester Metropolitan University offers an interdisciplinary approach to studying zoology, covering a wide range of topics from molecular biology and genetics to animal evolution and behavior. This program provides students with a thorough understanding of the subject, as well as practical skills in laboratory and fieldwork.

Course Overview

The BSc (Hons) Zoology degree is a three-year full-time program, with options to extend to four years with a placement or study abroad. The course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of zoology, including the molecular biology, genetics, and physiology of animals, as well as their evolution and behavior.

Features and Benefits

• Develop practical skills in laboratory and fieldwork, including field courses in the UK, Europe, and Africa.
• Option to spend a year studying overseas in Europe, North America, or Australasia, or on a placement with a relevant employer.
• Strong industry links, providing opportunities for projects and collaborations with partners such as the NHS and the RSPB.
• Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, the UK's leading professional society for biological sciences.
• State-of-the-art facilities, including the new Dalton building with dynamic learning spaces and world-class teaching and research facilities.

Course Structure

The course is divided into three years, with a range of core and optional modules.

Year 1

• Cells and Microorganisms: Introduction to biochemistry, microbiology, and molecular biology.
• Evolution: Understanding the principles of evolution and how they shape the diversity of life on Earth.
• Exploring Biodiversity: Introduction to the principles of biodiversity and ecology.
• Introduction to Organismal Behaviour: Examining the key concepts in organismal behaviour.

Year 2

• Functions and Mechanisms of Behaviour: Exploring the "what, why, and how" of animal behaviour.
• Landscape and Community Ecology: Understanding how organisms interact and the processes that shape wildlife patterns in the natural world.
• Professional Skills in Zoology: Developing key skills in research design, data analysis, and presentation.

Year 3

• Project and Professional Development: Planning and conducting a research project, with a focus on employability skills.
• Vertebrate Evolution: Exploring the evolution of vertebrates from their origins to the present day.
• Global Change Biology: Examining the physiological, behavioural, ecological, and distributional changes in species caused by global changes.

Entry Requirements

• Typical offer: 104-112 UCAS tariff points.
• IELTS score: 6.0 with no component below 5.5.
• UK students: A levels, BTEC National Extended Diploma, or OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma.
• International students: IB Diploma, with a minimum overall score of 26 or 104 UCAS Tariff points from three Higher Level subjects.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for the 2026/27 academic year are still being finalized. Please check the university's website for the latest information.

Careers Support and Prospects

• Employed or in further study: 88.7% of UK-domiciled, full-time, first-degree graduates.
• Careers Service: Support and guidance to help students get ready for further study or working life.
• Future Me: Exploring career plans and developing employability skills.
• Rise: Access to hundreds of online short courses to top up skills.

Related Courses

• BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology
• BSc (Hons) Biology
• Foundation Year: Science and Engineering degrees with a foundation year (Biology and Chemistry route)
• BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Conservation

Disclaimers

• Programme review: The university regularly reviews and updates its programs to ensure they are up-to-date and relevant.
• Important notice: The online prospectus provides an overview of the university's programs and is subject to change.
• Confirmation of regulator: The Manchester Metropolitan University is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS).