Program Overview

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Introduction to the Zoology BSc Honours Degree

The Zoology BSc Honours degree at Newcastle University provides students with in-depth training and a thorough understanding of all aspects of animal life. This three-year program is designed to equip students with a wide range of skills, ensuring many career opportunities are available to them.

Course Overview

The Zoology BSc degree has the same first year as the Biology BSc degree, giving students a good foundation in biology before specializing in zoology later in the degree. Students will study modules in animal life, animal health, and animal physiology, and will have the opportunity to participate in lab-based classes, day excursions, and field courses.

Modules

The information below is intended to provide an example of what students will study.

• Stage 1:
  • Genetics and Evolution
  • Molecular Biology of the Cell
  • Ecology and Conservation
  • Cells and Biomolecules
  • Animal Life
  • Skills for the Biosciences
• Stage 2:
  • Insect Biology and Origins
  • Academic and Employability Skills
  • Animal Function (Physiology and Development)
  • Evolution and Behaviour
  • Vertebrate Biology
• Stage 3:
  • Research Project
  • Physiological Zoology
  • Optional modules, including:
    • Animal Welfare & Behaviour
    • Biodiversity Science and Management
    • Biological Modelling
    • Africa Field Course: Conservation and Ecology
    • Global Challenges & Solutions
    • Marine Biodiversity & Conservation

Quality and Ranking

The Zoology BSc degree at Newcastle University is ranked 17th in the UK in the Zoology category by The Guardian University Guide 2026.

Professional Accreditation and Recognition

All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body.

Modules and Learning

The teaching methods used in the Zoology BSc degree include lectures, lab work, field work, seminars, tutor group sessions, and practical exams. The assessment methods used include written exams, practical exams, coursework, and a dissertation or research project.

Opportunities

The Zoology BSc degree provides students with opportunities for study abroad, work placements, and research projects. Students can choose to spend 9 to 12 months on an industrial placement in the UK or abroad, or study abroad for one semester or a full academic year at one of the university's partner universities overseas.

Facilities and Environment

The Ridley building is the home of the Biology and Zoology degrees and is located on the university's city-centre campus. The building has purpose-built teaching and specialist research laboratories, and students also have access to the university's outstations, including the Dove Marine Laboratory and the Great North Museum.

Support

The university provides a range of support services for students, including a personal tutor, a peer mentor scheme, and a staff-student committee. The university also has a wellbeing team that provides support, treatment, and guidance on mental and physical health.

Your Future

The Zoology BSc degree equips students with a wide range of skills, ensuring many career opportunities are available to them. Many graduates find work in commercial or medical laboratory positions, conservation work, and animal care. Some choose to continue their studies in specialist areas such as biomedical science, conservation, animal behaviour, and environmental consultancy.

Entry Requirements

The entrance requirements for the Zoology BSc degree include ABB at A-Level, including Biology and normally another science-related subject, or 32 points at International Baccalaureate, including Higher Level Biology at grade 6.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships

The tuition fees for the Zoology BSc degree are £31,500 for international students and not set for home students. The university offers a range of scholarships, including the Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships.

Open Days and Events

The university holds regular open days and events, including on-campus and virtual open days, where students can meet with academic staff and find out more about the subjects they are interested in. The university also travels overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Newcastle University.