Program Overview

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Introduction to the Zoology Program

The Zoology program at Queen Mary University of London offers students a comprehensive understanding of the structure, physiology, distribution, and behavior of animals. This course is designed to provide a thorough grounding in vertebrate and invertebrate biology, as well as physiology, behavior, evolution, and neurobiology.

Program Structure

The Zoology program can be completed in three or four years, depending on the chosen study option. The program includes a range of compulsory and optional modules, as well as field trips and research projects.

Year 0: Foundation Programme

• Semester 1:
  • Communication in Science and Technology
• Year-long modules:
  • Science and Engineering Success
  • Foundations of Chemical Science
  • Foundations of Physical Science
  • Foundations of Engineering
  • Foundations of Biological Science
  • Mathematics A

Year 1

• Basic Biochemistry
• Cells
• Ecology
• Essential Skills for Biologists
• Evolution
• Molecular Genetics
• Physiology
• Practical Biology
• Practical Molecular and Cellular Biology

Year 2

Compulsory Modules

• Diversity of Life
• Ecological Interactions I
• Research Methods and Communication
• Urban Ecology

Optional Modules

• Choose four from:
  • Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics
  • Comparative & Integrative Physiology
  • Ecological Interactions II (includes field trip to Croatia)
  • Ecosystem Science
  • Genes and Bioinformatics
  • Infectious Disease Biology
  • Techniques in Biological Sciences
  • Metabolic Pathways
  • Microbial Physiology and Growth

Year 3

Compulsory Modules

• Behavioural Ecology
• Mammals and Evolution
• Professional Skills and Development for Biologists

Optional Modules

• Choose one from:
  • Biological Sciences Research Project
  • Project: Engaging the Public with Science
  • Structured Research Projects
• Choose three from:
  • Climate Change and Conservation Challenges
  • Endocrine Physiology and Biochemistry
  • Functional Genomics and Epigenetics
  • Neuroscience: from Molecules to Behaviour
  • Population and Chromosome Genetics
  • Reproductive and Development Biology
  • Savannah Ecology and Conservation (includes field trip to the African savannas)

Study Options

The Zoology program offers several study options, including:

• Year in Industry: Spend a year working in a professional experience position as part of your degree.
• Year Abroad: Study abroad as part of your degree, with links to universities in Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for the Zoology program are as follows:

• A-Level: Grades ABB at A-Level, including A-Level Biology.
• IB: International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum of 32 points overall, including 6,5,5 from three Higher Level subjects, including Biology at Higher Level.
• BTEC: See detailed subject and grade requirements.
• Access HE: We consider applications from students with the Access to Higher Education Diploma in a science discipline.
• GCSE: Minimum five GCSE passes, including English and Maths at grade C or 4.
• EPQ: Alternative offers may be made to applicants taking the Extended Project Qualification.
• Contextualised Admissions: Our standard contextual offer is BBC, including B in Biology at A-Level. Our enhanced contextual offer is BCC, including B in Biology at A-Level.

Funding

• Loans and Grants: UK students are eligible to apply for tuition fee and maintenance loans from Student Finance England or other government bodies.
• Scholarships and Bursaries: Queen Mary offers a generous package of scholarships and bursaries, which currently benefits around 50 per cent of our undergraduates.

Careers

Many of our students progress into scientific roles, such as clinical and laboratory work, postgraduate research, or science communication. Others transfer their skills into sectors such as marketing and finance. Recent Zoology graduates have been hired by organizations such as ZSL London Zoo, Kent Wildlife Trust, and the Forestry Commission.

About the School

The School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences is a large and dynamic school with strong links to industry. We offer a stimulating and supportive learning experience, with inspirational teaching from high-calibre staff who are leaders in their field. According to the Research Excellence Framework 2021, 91 per cent of our Biological Sciences research is either world-leading or internationally excellent.

Data for These Courses

• 70% of students say staff value students' views and opinions about the course.
• 100% of students say teaching staff have supported their learning well.
• 84% of students are in work or doing further study 15 months after the course.