This course will give you a comprehensive understanding of the biology of animals. You will learn about animals, the links between them and their environment, and key aspects of zoological phenomena from molecular to ecological levels.
The course will allow you to gain in-depth knowledge, some of which is at the forefront of zoological science. Practical training will equip you with many of the subject-specific, personal and practical skills that you will need for your future career.
Zoology is the study of the biology of animals. You will learn all about the biological processes, their behaviour, and how they interact with their environment.
Year 1
In year 1 you will study a range of topics in six modules covering both theory and practice across the biological sciences.
Biodiversity (20 credits)
This module focuses on the origins and diversity of living organisms (including humans), the environmental processes and their role in the generation of biodiversity.
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From Molecules to Microbes (20 credits)
This module focuses on the basic principles involved in the build-up of molecules from atoms: the formation, properties and importance of bio-organic molecules, the diverse nature of micro-organisms and their structure, function and importance.
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Study Skills (20 credits)
You will learn by observation, investigation, comparison and engagement, and develop practical learning and presentation methods which can be applied during year 1 and beyond. You will also gain an appreciation of Personal Development Planning and effective data handling, calculation and numerical skills.
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Genetics (20 credits)
This module will help you develop an understanding of genes and genetics, and their influence on evolution and development. It also looks at the basic principles of molecular genetics, and the function and evolution of genes in organisms.
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Cell Biology (20 credits)
This module will look at the multidisciplinary nature of cell biology and the basic structure of cells, focusing on animal cells. It will help you develop a theoretical knowledge of the fundamental physiological and biochemical functions carried out by cells.
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Biological Skills (20 credits)
This module will help you develop practical laboratory skills relevant to cell, organismal, micro- and molecular biology which will form a basis for competence in biological and biochemical experimental work.
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Year 2
The highlight of year 2 is a residential field trip to Dale Fort in Pembrokeshire in May for the Marine Biology module which includes studies of the zonation and ecology of animals and plants on various rocky sea shores.
Vertebrate Zoology (20 credits)
This module explores the diversity of form of vertebrates, the basic phylogeny and main evolutionary trends within the vertebrates, the major variations in morphology and anatomy of the classes of vertebrates and the main biological features of vertebrates that enable environmental adaptation and species survival. You will gain competence in appropriate methodology in vertebrate analysis and studies through practical classes.
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Biological Research Skills (20 credits)
This module will help you understand the basics of scientific research under the following areas in order to prepare you for future research based activity:
- critical evaluation of research-based literature
- understanding experimental techniques and design
- data interpretation, analysis and presentation
- dissertation writing and presentation.
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Human Physiology (20 credits)
The aim of this module is to encourage an awareness of the physiological nature of life in humans and develop an understanding of form, function and adaptation in organ systems central to the maintenance of life and interaction with the environment.
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Parasite and Vector Biology (20 credits)
This module looks at selected examples of pests and parasites and their impact on human health and human society. It gives an understanding of the life-cycles, basic systematics, transmission, pathology and control of the examples chosen.
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Marine Biology (20 credits)
This module provides awareness of the biology and ecology of marine environments as well as providing you with the opportunity to undertake field work and encouraging you to adopt an investigative approach to ecological studies. Includes a residential field trip to Pembrokeshire.
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Experimental Zoology and Systematics (20 credits)
This module aims to develop knowledge and understanding of the relationship between structure and function in animals.
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Year 3
In year 3 a wide range of optional modules and project possibilities helps you to mould your own degree. You can undertake a lab-based research project for 40 credits and choose two of the optional modules from the following list or take a literature/data analysis project worth 20 credits plus three optional modules from the following list of options:
Biology of Parasites I (20 credits)
This module looks at the importance of human and animal parasites in relation to medical, veterinary or wild life aspects, life-cycle biology, host response and the principles of parasite epidemiology and transmission. It also covers strategies for parasite detection, diagnosis and control.
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Current Topics in Zoology (20 credits)
This module looks at the current topics of interest from selected areas of zoology, the relevant basic background and an explanation as to the rationale behind the contemporary areas of zoological interest.
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Applied Hydrobiology (20 credits)
The module focuses on biology relevant to the water industry and organisations which regulate and control the aquatic environment for example the Environment Agency. The major themes are biology associated with water resources and water pollution. The module will be enhanced by field studies and external visits.
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Biology of Parasites II (20 credits)
This module looks at the biology of selected parasites of human or veterinary importance and their interactions with hosts and vectors.
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Animal Cognition and Social Complexity (20 credits)
The aim of this module is to develop an understanding of the cognitive abilities and limitations of nonhuman animals, with a particular focus on nonhuman primates. The course also develops your understanding of the cognitive challenges associated with living in complex social groups.
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Epidemiology and Ecology of Infectious Diseases (20 credits)
This module explores the ecology and transmission of human and animal infectious diseases and their management.
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Part-time structure
If you are studying part-time you select two to four modules from each year of study, completing the rest of the modules in the following year. This leads to a maximum six-year duration for a part-time degree. If studying part-time you do not have the placement option.
