Program Overview

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Bachelor of Science (Zoology)

The Bachelor of Science (Zoology) is a four-year undergraduate degree program that provides students with a strong foundation in the science of zoology. The program is designed to develop students' knowledge and understanding of animal diversity, ecology, evolution, and conservation.

Program Overview

The program is delivered on campus and in the field, with blended learning and use of online resources where appropriate. The curriculum includes a range of modules that cover the principles of zoology, including animal morphology and function, ecology, evolution, and conservation biology.

Course Structure

The program consists of four years of study, with each year comprising a range of modules that build on the previous year's learning. The modules are designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of zoology, as well as practical skills in laboratory and fieldwork.

First Year

In the first year, students take modules in biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as a module in careers in zoology. This module includes lectures, workshops, and discussion sessions focused on zoology-related occupations, research, and writing skills.

Second Year

In the second year, students gain a strong understanding of the taxonomy, diversity, and form and function of species across the animal kingdom. They also take broader biology modules that provide a foundation in evolution and molecular/cellular biology.

Third Year

In the third year, there is a strong focus on ecology, with additional knowledge development in biological statistics, GIS mapping, and a new module, lab skills in zoology.

Fourth Year

In the final year of study, zoology students have the opportunity to take on a bespoke research project in the area of expertise of their assigned dedicated supervisor. These capstone projects may be lab-based, computer-based, or field-based, depending on the particular topic under investigation.

Modules

The program includes a range of modules, including:

• Careers in Zoology
• Vertebrate Zoology
• Invertebrate Zoology
• Field skills in Zoology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Marine Habitats
• Population and Community Ecology
• Applied Ecology
• Lab skills in Zoology
• GIS and Biostatistics
• Marine & Coastal Ecology
• Phylogenetics and Conservation
• Biostatistics in Natural Sciences
• Animals in Captivity
• Practical Skills in Zoology
• Integrative Zoology
• Literature Review
• Final Year Project

Assessment

Students are assessed through a range of methods, including continuous assessment, practical assessment, examinations, oral assessments, and project work.

Career Opportunities

There is a broad range of careers available for zoology graduates, including:

• Animal care technician
• Aquaculture/Fisheries
• Biodiversity/Heritage officer
• Conservation
• Data stewardship
• Ecologist
• Environmental consultancy
• Forensic science
• Medical Zoology/Epidemiology
• Museum curator
• Parasitologist
• Research
• Scientific journalism
• Teaching
• Wildlife Ranger
• Zoo keeper
• Veterinary

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements include a minimum grade H5 in two subjects and passes in four other subjects at O6/H7 level in the Leaving Certificate, including Irish, English, Mathematics, a laboratory science subject, and any two other subjects recognized for entry purposes.

Fees

The fees for the program are as follows:

• EU tuition: 4,768
• Student contribution: 2,500
• Non-EU tuition: 27,500
• Levy: 140
• Total fee: 7,408 (EU), 27,640 (non-EU)

Scholarships

The university offers a range of scholarships to students, including undergraduate merit awards and undergraduate excellence awards.

Why University of Galway?

University of Galway is a world-renowned research-led university with a commitment to top-quality teaching. The university is ranked in the top 2% of universities globally and is ranked first in Ireland for sustainable development.