Program Overview

Zoology is the study of all kinds of animals, including their anatomy, physiology, genetics, and their adaptations for survival and reproduction in different environments. This is vital knowledge if we are to maintain healthy natural environments, control pests and diseases, conserve biodiversity and preserve endangered species.

Our Biological Sciences (Zoology) degree is aimed at anyone interested in the broad field of animal biology. It is a truly interdisciplinary course that draws on the research strengths found throughout the School, and, as well as covering the evolution and diversity of the main animal groups, you will also have the opportunity to study modules in ecology, physiology and genetics. We have particular expertise in behaviour and brain function, and you will study both behaviour and neuroscience as part of this course.

The course content is closely linked to the research interests of our staff (many of whom are leaders in their field); this allows you to experience the excitement of learning in an active research environment, and helps to ensure that the topics you cover are highly topical, and of relevance and importance in today’s world.

As part of this course you will spend your third year on placement at a field centre, zoological or botanical institute, museum, industrial research laboratory, or other approved establishment of your choice. This offers a great opportunity to gain first-hand professional research experience, and it has been shown to greatly enhance your degree and subsequent employment prospects. Many placements are in the UK, but our students also take up placements in international locations, including Southeast Asia, South Africa, Germany, Italy, Australia, Madagascar, and the USA.

Our Zoology degree also includes ample opportunities for practical field work, enabling you to develop valuable field research techniques. As well taking part in field research projects throughout your time at Cardiff, you can also choose from our specialised, project-based field courses in the UK and further afield.

As with all of the degrees in the School of Biosciences, our Zoology course offers the flexibility to tailor the course to your own interests and career aspirations. Your degree title also remains flexible up until your final year, so that you can either continue with BSc Biological Sciences (Zoology) to graduation, or switch to another of our bioscience degrees during your first two years of study.

Your final degree title will depend on your module selection, and your Personal Tutor will guide you through the options available to you.  You may also have the option of switching to our four-year MBiol integrated master's degree, which forms an excellent basis for a future career in scientific research.

This course provides an excellent foundation for a broad range of careers and offers strong training for research scientists. Our graduates have gone on to a range of exciting and fulfilling careers in both scientific and non-scientific related fields, including marine ecology, biology, field-based or zoo-based research and conservation, environmental law, biomedical research, scientific publishing, journalism, teaching and veterinary science. Many also choose to further their studies by pursuing a master’s degree or PhD.