Program Overview
The BSc Zoology program at the University of Reading immerses students in the study of animals from year one, exploring their evolution, physiology, behavior, and conservation. Through extensive field courses, practical labs, and hands-on research, students gain a comprehensive understanding of animal life, preparing them for careers in zoology, conservation, and related fields. With a strong focus on research and employability, the program offers opportunities for real-world experiences and industry connections.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Study animals in their natural habitat – gaining expertise in evolution, physiology, behaviour and conservation – with our BSc Zoology degree. Zoology is the science of animals: whether you’re passionate about one particular group of animals, or interested in the subject as a whole, we’ll help you get the most out of your degree. Choose BSc Zoology at the University of Reading Overall, 93.2% of graduates from the School of Biological Sciences are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation (based on our analysis of HESA data (c) HESA 2023, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020/21, includes all School of Biological Sciences responders). All graduates are eligible for membership of The Royal Society of Biology and can apply for Chartered Biologist status. Many other universities offer a one-size-fits-all, shared first year to all students – from ecologists to biochemists – but, at Reading, you’ll study animals from day one. Enthusiastic academics from the School of Biological Sciences will teach you about animal life at all levels, from the simplest forms through to birds and mammals. Your zoology studies will explore the breadth of the animal world, including: populations ecosystems animal behaviour evolution biodiversity conservation. Our wide range of optional modules enables you to follow your specific interests in this vast, fascinating area of study. In the National Student Survey 2023, 100% of our students said that teaching staff were good or very good at explaining things (100% of respondents studying BSc Zoology course).
Outline:
Year 1
Compulsory modules Cellular and Molecular Principles of Life Study the structure and organisation of cells as you discover the common features found in all life. You will focus on the differences between cells that are essential for creating diversity and explore major concepts in cell biology and genetics. You will explore key processes such as repairing damage and cell division, discovering how these processes are coordinated as cells work together to form multicellular life. Animal Form and Function Discover the structural and physiological diversity of animal life. You will develop your understanding of physiological systems across a diverse range of taxonomic groups. As you study, you will explore the basic underlying body plans and structural organisation of animals, including their development and growth, to understand how structure, function and environment allow animals to survive and thrive. You will study the major threats affecting ecosystems and biodiversity and consider how conservation science, nature-based and technological solutions, and sustainability can counterbalance them. Fundamentals of Evolution Gain an overview of evolution as you study the fundamental processes related to species change over time. You will consider factors that force and hinder change in the evolutionary process, focussing on genetic variation and natural selection, to develop an advanced understanding of diverse areas of modern biology. Fundamentals of Ecology Learn about ecological concepts and how they can be applied both in the field and in the lab. You will learn how species interact with each other and their environment, how biodiversity assembles in communities and forms entire ecosystems, and how human activity influences ecological processes. History of Life on Earth You will look at the key groups of organisms in water and on land, and at the impact of major events such as climate change and mass extinction.
Year 2
Compulsory modules Comparative Vertebrate Zoology Embark on an intensive journey exploring vertebrate life. You will focus on functional anatomy, physiology, and phylogenetic diversity of vertebrates, and gain advanced hands-on knowledge via the Cole Museum of Zoology teaching collection and training in dissection skills. Quantitative and Professional Skills Learn key skills for managing, handling, analysing, visualising and interpreting diverse types of data. You will learn to apply quantitative (statistical) approaches and how to present results using various visualisation tools, from graphs to maps based on GIS data. Invertebrate Zoology: Spineless Wonders Discover the world of invertebrates that inhabit every corner of the planet. You will learn of their significance to the entire planetary ecosystem as you explore the weird and wonderful animals that are often overlooked. You will learn how to identify invertebrates in the Phylum Arthropoda, most commonly insect, and gain a deep understanding of their life cycle and ecology and the significant impact they have on economic, social and scientific discoveries of human society. Optional modules Ecology and Conservation Field Course Study nature in a hotspot of biodiversity. Visit areas and sites of conservation and biodiversity on this two-week residential summer field course - currently in South Africa, but locations can vary. Learn about species and ecosystems, the challenges and successes of conservation, and the culture of local communities. Explore different species of plants and vertebrates and become familiar with different approaches to surveying. During the trip, you will complete a research project, and learn to collect, analyse and present your data. UK Biodiversity Field Course Embark on a one-week residential field course that will provide you with an immersive introduction to essential biodiversity field skills. Advanced Studies in Cellular and Molecular Biology Study the structure and function of cells and the macromolecules that define them. You will expand your understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which cells work and how they are regulated as you explore complex processes such as cell division, signalling, differentiation and movement. Advanced Ecology Deepen your understanding of the patterns and processes in the ecological system as you study the latest methodologies and the insights they have provided to ecology. You will learn about the form and function of communities, ecosystems and biomes as you cover topics such as biochemical cycles and the role of microbes in ecological processes, food webs and ecosystem services. Marine Biology and Conservation Explore the range of marine habitats, environments and associated biodiversity present within the biosphere. You will gain an overview of the major physical and chemical mechanisms unpinning oceanic processes and learn key aspects of biology, ecology and environment physiology of marine organisms, and how we manage and conserve these ecosystems. Animal Behaviour Learn the scientific methods and principle theories used to study animal behaviour. You will focus on topics such as nature vs nurture, the theory of the selfish gene, why animals fight, and why and when they help each other. Palaeobiology Gain context on the studies of modern organisms and ecosystems as you learn the principles of palaeontology and paleoecology. You will cover diverse topics including palaeoclimate archives and proxies, taphonomy, palaeobiodiversity, stratigraphy, paleobiogeography, life histories and biology of extinct species, macroevolution, extinction, the fossil record and earth history. Conservation Science in Practice Discover the world of conservation science and how it works in practice as you explore the inherent conflicts and challenges associated with nature conservation. You will develop effective tools and methods to accept and address these challenges, and learn how data-driven conclusions can generate conservation solutions in our modern world. Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Study the key concepts of bioformatics and computational biology. You will learn bioinformatic techniques that will assist with vital programming and computation skills, covering the basics of algorithms such as machine learning and agent-based systems. You will use practical examples to demonstrate the power of bioinformatics for enhancing research in ecology, zoology, biomedicine, biochemistry and pharmacy.
Year 3
Compulsory modules Research Project Optional modules Marine Biology Field Course Embrace an exciting and unique opportunity to develop biodiversity survey skills and learn about practical conservation of the marine environment. Using breath-hold, snorkelling or SCUBA diving, the course will teach you internationally recognized ecological assessment methods and give you advanced understanding of diverse marine habitats. Venoms and Poisons: From Pharmacology to Therapeutics Gain a comprehensive overview of venoms and poisons, focussing on those from animals, plants and fungi. You will learn about the evolution and ecology of venoms and poisons, the main principles of pharmacology, and consider how venoms and poisons may be useful for medicinal purposes. Epidemiology of Zoonotic Diseases Study diseases originating from wildlife or livestock and the issues they pose for the health and well-being of people, companion animals, live stock and wild animals. You will study disease-causing organisms, their hosts, vectors and symptoms, and how they can be controlled. Forensics Learn the scientific basis for crime scene analysis and the application of scientific techniques, approaches and knowledge to the solving of crimes. You will study key principles and processes of biological sciences through the perspective of criminology and cover topics including forensic pathology, forensic anthropology, forensic entomology, and forensic acarology. Ecology of Urban Areas Explore the concept of urban areas and how they have, and continue to, change over time in different parts of the world. You will critically evaluate how different factors affect interactions between human residents and wildlife as you consider population dynamics, reproductive output, and behaviour of urban species and communities. Palaeoecology Research Field Course Gain an in-depth introduction to the study of paleontology and paleoecology and hands-on practical field research in Dinosaur Provincial Park, Canada. This physically demanding and unique trip is jointly hosted by Reading, the University of New England (Australia), and the Royal
| Group | Fees | - | - | | New UK/Republic of Ireland students: | £9,250 | | New international students: | £27,650 |
