BSc (Hons) Zoology
University of Lincoln
Key Information
Campus location
Lincoln, United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
3 - 4 years
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
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Application deadline
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Earliest start date
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Introduction
The study of zoology is an exploration of how animals have evolved, how they function, and the ways in which they interact with their environment. The subject integrates anatomy, physiology, behaviour, ecology, evolution, and conservation to provide a comprehensive understanding of species structure and diversity. Humans have created a rapidly-changing world to which animals have had to adapt. Understanding the amazing diversity of animals that share our planet helps us to understand our origins, as well as predict future evolution.
Zoology at Lincoln is taught by research-active staff who specialise in a wide range of disciplines. The degree aims to provide a broad understanding of the subject, encompassing the study of key aspects of modern zoology in a diverse range of invertebrates and vertebrates. Students have opportunities to study animals in their natural habitat at key points during their studies.
Students can participate in a residential field trip in the UK, enabling them to study animals in the wild. For UK-based field trips the University will cover costs of transport, accommodation and meals at the field site. There is also an optional Overseas Field Course module in the final year. Further details on the Overseas Field Course, including costs, can be found below.
Throughout the course, students have the chance to develop skills in scientific methods and communication. There is also an opportunity for students to gain professional experience by undertaking a placement year, between the second and third year of their studies.
"This information was correct at the time of publishing (July 2023)"
Admissions
Curriculum
How You Study
This degree is designed to develop a broad understanding of the subject, encompassing the study of key aspects of modern zoology in a diverse range of vertebrates and invertebrates.
In the first year, students will have the opportunity to develop a broad understanding of biological concepts, including genetics, evolution, ecology, anatomy, and physiology.
During the second year, more specialist modules cover vertebrate and invertebrate zoology, reproduction and development, and plant-animal interactions. Students can choose from a selection of optional modules to align their studies with areas of particular interest.
There is an emphasis on independent research in the final year and students will be expected to undertake a substantial research project, as well as modules that aim to develop critical scientific skills.
Teaching is a mixture of lectures, seminars, and practical sessions in the laboratory or in field situations. Other forms of teaching will include discussions and debates and written tasks. These will vary from module to module.
First Year
- Comparative Anatomy and Physiology of Animals (Core)
- Ecology (Core)
- Introduction to Animal Behaviour and Welfare (Core)
- Introduction to Life Sciences (Core)
- Plant Structure and Function (Core)
- Research Methods for the Life Sciences (Core)
Second Year
- Data Skills for the Life Sciences (Core)
- Evolution (Core)
- Invertebrate and Vertebrate Zoology (Core)
- Reproduction and Development (Core)
- Animal Behaviour (Option)†
- Animal Protection (Option)†
- Conservation Biology (Option)†
- Managing Ecosystems (Option)†
- SLS Study Abroad (Option)†
- UK Field Course (Option)†
Third Year
- Behavioural Ecology (Core)
- Global Change Biology (Core)
- Life Sciences Research Project (Core)
- Palaeobiology (Core)
- Animal Cognition and Welfare (Option)†
- Overseas Field Course (Option)†
- Plant and Animal Interactions (Option)†
- Practical Skills in Conservation (Option)†
- Soil Biology (Option)†
- Veterinary Parasitology (Option)†
† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.
How You Are Assessed
The way students are assessed in this course may vary for each module. Examples of assessment methods that are used include coursework, such as written assignments, reports or dissertations; practical exams, such as presentations, performances or observations; and written exams, such as formal examinations or in-class tests. The weighting given to each assessment method may vary across each academic year. The University of Lincoln aims to ensure that staff return in-course assessments to students promptly.
Gallery
Program Outcome
How You Study
This degree is designed to develop a broad understanding of the subject, encompassing the study of key aspects of modern zoology in a diverse range of vertebrates and invertebrates.
In the first year, students will have the opportunity to develop a broad understanding of biological concepts, including genetics, evolution, ecology, anatomy, and physiology.
During the second year, more specialist modules cover vertebrate and invertebrate zoology, reproduction and development, and plant-animal interactions. Students can choose from a selection of optional modules to align their studies with areas of particular interest.
There is an emphasis on independent research in the final year and students will be expected to undertake a substantial research project, as well as modules that aim to develop critical scientific skills.
Teaching is a mixture of lectures, seminars, and practical sessions in the laboratory or in field situations. Other forms of teaching will include discussions and debates and written tasks. These will vary from module to module.
Scholarships and Funding
For eligible undergraduate students going to university for the first time, scholarships and bursaries are available to help cover costs. The University of Lincoln offers a variety of merit-based and subject-specific bursaries and scholarships.
Several scholarship options are available. Please check the university website for more information.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
Career opportunities for Zoology graduates may include teaching, environmental consultancy, conservation, and science journalism. Graduates may choose to continue their studies at postgraduate level or pursue a career in research.