Animal Behaviour and Biology BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

The Animal Behaviour degree at the University of Chester emphasizes a scientific approach to animal behavior, exploring a wide range of species and environments. Students gain a strong foundation in biology and develop skills in data analysis, research methods, and practical field techniques. The program offers opportunities for work placements, experiential learning, and study abroad, preparing graduates for careers in animal conservation, research, and related fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

A key strength of our Animal Behaviour degree is that it is firmly rooted in the biological sciences and adopts a rigorous scientific approach to the study of the behaviour of animals. As well as exploring the behaviour of charismatic animals, we embrace a wide taxonomic range of species and have a good focus on some of the groups less emphasized elsewhere, such as amphibians and invertebrates. These groups have really interesting behaviour in their own right but are also a crucial part of temperate and tropical ecosystems. Whilst the emphasis is mainly on wild animals, you can study behaviour in more managed environments, e.g. determining best husbandry and conservation breeding for endangered animals in zoos; best practice pet welfare; farm animal management. Our staff bring great expertise from their research fields. Our Biology degree offers a range of subjects and unique experiences due to close partnerships with organisations such as Chester Zoo and other leading institutes, industries and charities. We supplement classroom learning with opportunities for work placements or fieldwork. There are also opportunities to take part in exciting laboratory-based research. We undertake diverse research activities that ensure enthusiastic delivery of contemporary content. We will encourage you to become a member of relevant professional societies, such as a member of the Royal Society of Biology, and participate at organised events.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Genetics and Evolution (Major Compulsory - Equal Compulsory - Minor Compulsory):
• This module will cover basic genetic principles and modern evolutionary theory.
• Students will gain an understanding of the application of taxonomic principles.
• Data Handling and Project Design (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• The module introduces students to basic mathematical and statistical approaches to data preparation, analysis, and presentation.
• Topics include The role of hypotheses in science, The null and alternative hypothesis, Basic statistical operations, Central tendency and dispersion, populations and samples, frequency distributions, Analysing two-sample designs, Analysing frequency data, Correlation and linear regression analyses, Computing operations, and using descriptive statistics to explore data.
• Introduction to Animal Behaviour (Major Compulsory - Equal Compulsory - Minor Compulsory):
• This module provides a broad introduction to the study of animal behaviour, both theoretically and practically.
• Topics include key theory in animal behaviour, foraging behaviour, reproduction and mate choice, parental behaviour, learning and development, social behaviour, communication, and behavioural sampling techniques.
• Global Biodiversity (Major Compulsory - Equal Compulsory - Minor Compulsory):
• This module provides an appreciation of the diversity of life on Earth and threats to global biodiversity.
• Topics include Overview of biological diversity, The diversity of life on Earth, Measuring biodiversity, Introduction to biogeography, Mechanics of biodiversity, Origins of biodiversity, Species distributions and ranges, Past biodiversity and mass extinctions, Threats to global biodiversity, Overexploitation, Habitat loss and change, Alien and invasive species, Ecosystem stress, and Protecting biodiversity.
• Comparative Anatomy and Physiology of Animals (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module covers the structure and function of major body systems across a range of taxa.
• Topics include Cell structure, organelle function, Nervous system structure and function, Neurones, Action potential transmissions, Synapses, Sensory systems, Connective, muscle and epithelial tissue, Anatomical descriptors, The structure and function of the cardiac system, Homeostatic control, Positive and negative feedback systems, Acid base balance, Musculoskeletal system and integument, Muscle contraction, Muscle types, Skeleton structure and function, Locomotion, Endocrine system, Structure and function of the digestive system, Reproduction, Respiration, and Osmoregulation.

Year 2:

• Research Methods (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module builds on Year 1’s Data Handling and Project Design module and equips students with skills to critically analyse primary research papers.
• Topics include Appreciation of numbers, Literature searching, Critical appraisal of research papers, Survey methods, Experimental design, Research questions, Hypotheses, Statistical analysis, Research proposals, Dissertations, Research ethics, Sustainable development, and Core biological skills.
• Experiential Learning (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module provides students with practical experience in work-related or research contexts.
• Students can choose from various activities such as research projects with local employers, residential field work, and the design and production of educational materials.
• Behavioural Ecology (Major Compulsory - Equal Compulsory - Minor Compulsory):
• This module develops student understanding of evolutionary and ecological theory in the interpretation and prediction of animal behaviour in the wild.
• Topics include Optimizing behaviour, animal learning, group living, cooperative living, mutualism, sexual selection and mating systems, habitat preferences and dispersal, predator-prey relations, and practical workshops in behavioural measurement.
• Adaptations to the Environment (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module covers the adaptations animals have evolved to survive in various terrestrial and aquatic environments.
• Topics include Introduction to the Animal Kingdom, Adaptations to terrestrial and aquatic life, Ionic and osmotic adaptation, Thermal adaptations, Respiratory adaptations, Reproduction and life cycle adaptations, Locomotory adaptations, Sensory adaptations, Feeding adaptations, Extreme aquatic and terrestrial environments, and practical tasks and analytical skills development.
• Marine Animal Behaviour (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module examines the behaviour of marine animals in the context of the unique challenges of the marine environment.
• Topics include habitat and niche selection, migration and dispersal, social living, echolocation, communication, foraging strategies, predator-prey interactions, cooperation, parasitism, sexual selection and parental care, and the welfare of marine animals in captivity.
• Experiential Overseas Learning (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module involves students in experiential learning activities abroad, enhancing their global citizenship skills and intercultural competence.
• Topics include Global citizenship, Ethical engagement and practice, Cross-cultural issues, Intercultural communication, Theories and models of learning, Intercultural competence, Integration and Multiculturalism, Critical thinking skills, Experiential learning models, Personal and placement-related skills, Enhanced independence, Improved command of multicultural behaviour, Increased knowledge and confidence in their personal identity, Effective time management and organizational skills, Project management, Self-management and personal development, and Team building.
• Year abroad study exchange (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module offers students the opportunity to study abroad at one of UoC’s partner universities.
• Preparation for the year abroad includes cross-cultural issues, host-country orientation, The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Practical matters relating to living and studying in the wider world, Theories and models of learning, Personal and placement-related transversal skills, Effective self-motivation, Effective time management and organizational skills, Project management, Self-management and personal development.
• Enhancing your Employability through Work Based Learning (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module provides students with a structured approach to researching, selecting, and securing a suitable work placement.
• Topics include Pre-placement, Writing an effective CV, Constructing a letter of application, Interview skills, Induction Programme and Placement, The organisational context, Self-assessment of needs, Devising a strategy for integrating into the workplace, Completion of online assignment tasks, Learning effectively in and from the workplace, Devising and implementing strategies to improve own approach and performance, Critical analysis and evaluation of skill development and performance, Influencing the Placement Provider’s appraisal, and Devising an action plan to develop gaps in transferable skills based on the placement experiences.

Year 3:

• Dissertation (Major Compulsory - Equal Optional - Minor N/A):
• This module allows students to engage in extensive independent study under the guidance of a supervisor.
• Topics include Research, development, and interpretation of a selected topic relevant to their program of study, using primary and secondary sources.
• Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module examines the integration of animal behaviour and conservation biology.
• Topics include Reproductive behavioural biology, Captive breeding/in-situ/ex-situ conservation, Roles of zoos in conservation and behavioural research, Field-based vs captive animal behaviour research, Habitat loss/fragmentation, Sustainable exploitation, and Human-animal conflict.
• Physiology and Behaviour (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module explores the interaction between physiology and animal behaviour.
• Topics include Physiological control of migration, hibernation, and navigation, Control of movement and behaviour patterns, The neurobiological basis of the biological clock, Circadian rhythms, Zeitgebers, Sleep-wake cycle, Sensory systems, Photoreception, Chemoreception, Proprioception, Audition, Mechanisms and functions of pair bonding and parenting, and Neuro-endocrine control of reproductive behaviour, seasonality, and oestrus cycles and emotions.
• Animal Cognition (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module examines key areas in the field of Animal Cognition.
• Topics include Evolution of intelligence, Individual learning, Innovation, Spatial cognition, Numerical ability, Quantity representation, Tool use, Self recognition, Social knowledge, Theory of mind, Social learning, Animal culture, and Animal communication.
• Applied Conservation Genetics (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module provides an understanding of the principles of conservation genetics.
• Topics include Review of relevant genetic principles, Levels of biodiversity, Population dynamics, Population genetics, Factors influencing the genetic structure of natural populations, Metapopulations, F- statistics, Long-term viability and effective population size, Conservation strategies, and Specialities within conservation genetics.
• Managing Marine Environmental Impacts (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module examines major issues concerning the survival of marine biodiversity and explores strategies to mitigate threats.
• Topics include Marine biodiversity and threats, Coastal Zone Development, Conflicts of priorities for the use of natural marine resources, Marine protected areas, Strategic Environmental Assessment, Environmental Impact Assessment, and Case studies profiling how biological knowledge can inform practical management for marine species and their habitats.
• Behavioural & Evolutionary Ecology (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module explores individuals' interactions with both the biotic and abiotic environments.
• Topics include Life history theory, Sexual selection, Cooperation & conflict, Animal social networks, The evolution of animal personalities, Communication & signalling, Phylogenetic comparative analyses, Social behaviour, and The economics of decision-making.
• Parasitology (Major Optional - Equal Optional - Minor Optional):
• This module examines the host-parasite relationship within the wider context of inter-species associations.
• Topics include Introduction to the important groups associated with medical and veterinary parasitology, The evolution of parasitism, Mode of transmission and parasitic life-cycles, Defence mechanisms, Host Immune response, Behavioural changes, Parasite immune evasion, Epidemiology, Zoonsis, Parasite ecology, Pathology associated with parasitism, and Treatment and control measures.

Assessment:

Assessment consists of coursework and examinations (typically 50:50). Coursework tasks include essays, lab reports, field trip reports, posters, and presentations. Examinations will make use of multi-choice and essay style questions.

Teaching:

Teaching is varied and interesting and encompasses lectures, practical sessions, seminars, and tutorials. Field trips are an integral part of this course. Many staff use social media and interactive voting systems as teaching tools.

Careers:

A Combined Honours Biology degree allows both further specialisation in the biological sciences, as well as providing technical knowledge and transferable skills useful beyond the scientific profession. Potential biologically related careers include working in technical and clinical environments, research and development, supporting conservation and environmental groups, and working in education and teaching.

Other:

The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice, and guidance. You may also be entitled to free membership of The Association of British and Irish Wild Animal Keepers (ABWAK), which provides free and reduced-price entry to many UK zoos. On this course, you have the opportunity to spend five weeks working for a host organisation via our innovative Work Based Learning module. You’ll have the chance to test-drive a future career, boost your CV and gain real work experience. As part of your studies you may take our Work Based Learning module, where you will be fully supported in securing a work placement of at least 150 hours, which you may be able to use in trying out a future career. On this course, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake an Experiential Learning module, where you’ll apply what you’ve learnt on the course to real life scenarios and projects. Please be aware that there are additional costs associated with Experiential Learning, related to travel, accommodation and activities. Our Experiential Overseas Learning module offers a unique opportunity to participate in a short-term placement around the world. You may wish to undertake Experiential Overseas Learning, where you can take advantage of our long-established links with organisations worldwide. Most students have the opportunity to undertake either one of these options as an integral part of their undergraduate course. This course offers the exciting opportunity to study abroad for a full academic year at one of our bilateral exchange partners or through ISEP (International Student Exchange Programs), a network of over 300 additional higher education institutions worldwide.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Home Students: £9,250 per year (2024/25) International/EU Students: £13,950 per year (2024/25) The tuition fees for international students studying Undergraduate programmes in 2024/25 are £13,950. This fee is set for each year of study. All undergraduate students are eligible for international and merit-based scholarships which are applicable to each year of study. For more information, go to our International Fees, Scholarship and Finance section. Irish Nationals living in the UK or ROI are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes.