Zoology with Entomology

The course

This is the only zoology degree in the UK that allows you to specialise in entomology, in which Harper Adams excels. Entomologists are scientists who study insects – their classification, behaviour, life cycle, ecology, distribution, physiology and population dynamics.

However, this being a broad-based degree, you will study all animals, from farm livestock, companion animals and exotics, to UK wildlife such as insects. Theres a strong emphasis on field and laboratory work – both skills in demand by employers. Understanding species and their communities gives an insight into both human and animal life and how they can be sustained in the face of global challenges, from climate change to food security.

Here at Harper Adams youll study whole organisms, not just species at the molecular level. Youll look at animals physiology, behaviour, and how they interact with other species and their environments, in order to preserve important habitats and manage wildlife in light of climate change.

Zoologists and entomologists protect endangered species and wildlife from the dangers of habitat loss, disease, invasive species, and climate change, and to protect and learn more about human life in the process.

Youll be taught by entomologists, conservationists, animal scientists, environmental specialists, veterinarians and many more highly experienced staff.

Duration

4 years (full-time) including a one-year work placement. A three year programme is available for applicants with at least two years, full-time relevant work experience. Please contact Admissions for further information on this option.

Teaching and learning

What you study

All Zoology students will share a common first year, learning about animal health and behaviour, and conservation. Modules will include survey and field skills, physiology, ecology, and adaptive biology.

You’ll start to specialise in your second year, with two of your eight modules focused on entomology. Returning from work placement, you’ll specialise further in your fourth year, with more dedicated modules and a focused research project that gives you the chance to explore a topic that interests you or furthers your career ambitions.

Where you will study

Learning extends beyond the classroom. There will be lots of applied work in our extensive laboratories, on our commercial farm on-campus, in our entomology laboratory, the Jean Jackson glasshouse, and entomology resource room with its insect collection. There is also a Companion Animal House. You’ll learn off-site through field trips and work placement.

Applied field work

You’ll take part in at least two residential field courses. In your first year you will head to the Slapton Ley Field Studies Council Centre in Devon where you will learn to conduct independent field research and do a group project. In Year 4 you’ll design, execute and evaluate a group research project during a further residential course on the island of Anglesey.

Teaching and learning

Learning at Higher Education level is a big step up from further education so we make sure you get lots of advice and support. Everyone learns differently and in the workplace you’ll need to work in different ways, so we make sure our courses test you in every way possible. So you will attend lectures and tutorials, do hands-on work, experience field trips, sit exams, and complete coursework assignments. Topics are based on real world situations, such as the reintroduction of the Wart-biter cricket and the Large Blue butterfly.

* During the Covid-19 Pandemic the University is delivering blended learning. Government guidance is being constantly reviewed to establish the learning events which can be delivered face to face. Please refer to our frequently asked questions for further details.

Assessment methods

There will be summative assessed coursework throughout the programme, and you will receive written feedback on all course work to help you improve. End-of-module assessments will take place in May/June of each academic year. Course work may be reports, presentations or portfolios, produced individually or in a team.

If you need a visa for undergraduate or postgraduate study, you must show evidence that your English Language skills are at B2 level on the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference).

This can be demonstrated by obtaining any of the following qualifications for direct entry on to undergraduate, postgraduate or research qualifications:

Entomologists are sought after and can choose from a range of interesting and rewarding careers. Some zoologists/entomologists may themselves controlling pests to make agriculture more sustainable and environmentally friendly, or to protect public health or forestry. Some graduates continue their studies to become research scientists, work as environmental consultants or nature conservationists, or in insecticide and drug development and sales. You could become a field trials officer, work in animal welfare and education, develop policies and regulations, or even find a role in the growing field of forensic entomology, using your knowledge of insect life cycles to help police solve crimes.