Zoology is the branch of biology that studies animals. It covers a broad range of topics including behaviour, morphology, physiology, development, ecology, evolution and taxonomy. The desire to understand the behaviour of animals has led to the development of a separate branch of Zoology called ethology which focuses on animal behaviour. On this degree you will study traditional zoology with an emphasis on animal behaviour. You will discover how animals interact with one another and their environments, specifically looking at the mechanisms, functions, development and evolution of behaviour.
We will provide you with broad zoological training that covers both pure and applied aspects of animal life. One of the most important components of this course is giving you both laboratory and field course experience, as well as transferable skills, including data analysis, group work, presentation, and IT skills.
You will not only enjoy the resources expected of a modern centre of animal biology but will also benefit from the proximity of an exceptional range of terrestrial, marine and freshwater habitats where field work is conducted. We have our own substantial Zoology Museum and are part of the Environment Centre Wales which is a partnership venture between Bangor University and the Natural Environment Research Council’s Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (CEH). We also have our own marine and freshwater aquaria, avian, mammalian and herpetological facilities.
Why choose Bangor University for this course?
- TV presenter Steve Backshall is now part of our teaching team.
- We have a pigeon loft for bird cognition and physiology research at the Treborth Botanic Gardens, rodent and reptile facilities, alpaca, sheep and beehives at the University farm at Henfaes.
- We have a natural history museum with a comprehensive collection of insects and vertebrate material, and an extensive marine and freshwater aquaria with a suite of temperature-controlled rooms.
- Strong links with zoological organisations and research facilities around the UK and abroad – allowing for international field trips and diverse student research projects.
Additional Course Options
This course is available with a Placement Year option where you will study for 1 additional year. The Placement Year is undertaken at the end of the second year and students are away for the whole of the academic year.
The Placement Year provides you with a fantastic opportunity to broaden your horizons and develop valuable skills and contacts through working with a self-sourced organisation relevant to your degree subject. The minimum period in placement (at one or more locations) is seven calendar months; more usually you would spend 10-12 months with a placement provider. You would normally start sometime in the period June to September of your second year and finish between June and September the following year. Placements can be UK-based or overseas and you will work with staff to plan and finalise the placement arrangements.
You will be expected to find and arrange a suitable placement to complement your degree and will be fully supported throughout by a dedicated member of staff at your academic School and the University’s Careers and Employability Services.
You will have the opportunity to fully consider this option when you have started your course at Bangor and can make an application for a transfer onto this pathway at the appropriate time. Read more about the work experience opportunities that may be available to you or, if you have any questions, please get in touch.
This course is available with an International Experience Year option where you will study or work abroad for 1 additional year. You will have ‘with International Experience’ added to your degree title on graduating.
Studying abroad is a great opportunity to see a different way of life, learn about new cultures and broaden your horizons. With international experience of this kind, you’ll really improve your career prospects. There are a wide variety of destinations and partner universities to choose from. If you plan to study in a country where English is not spoken natively, there may be language courses available for you at Bangor and in your host university to improve your language skills.
You will have the opportunity to fully consider this option at any time during your degree at Bangor and make your application. If you have any questions in the meantime, please get in touch.
Read more about the International Experience Year programme and see the studying or working abroad options on the Student Exchanges section of our website.
