The primates (apes, monkeys, tarsiers, lemurs and lorises) are facing an extinction crisis as many of them are specialised in their biology and ecology and live in parts of the world that are especially vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation. They are also the group of animals, to which we belong, so they provide a window through which we can interpret human evolutionary origins.
This BSc Zoology with Primatology degree course will give you a broad zoological training to appreciate the advanced and specialised knowledge of primates in the fullest evolutionary context. As zoologists, you will examine the full diversity of animals, their evolution, behaviour, ecology, anatomy, physiology, and development. As primatologists, you will take specialised modules that will provide you with a wealth of theoretical and practical knowledge and skills focused on this particular group of mammals.
Looking to the past and the present, this course offers a strong theoretical understanding of the evolutionary history and current adaptations of the primates. Looking from the present to the future, you will also develop your thinking and skills to understand and, and tackle some of the many conservation challenges that primates face in the wild.
During your studies with us you will have the opportunity to learn a broad range of laboratory and field skills, at home and abroad, and all the transferable skills associated with scientific training: IT skills and data analysis, writing, scientific communication etc. You will have access to a variety of Zoology modules covering vertebrates and invertebrates, as well as a suite of specialist modules on primatology and human evolution. You may also take an optional primatology field course to see and learn about primates in their natural habitat (e.g., in Uganda’s Kibale National Park).
Why choose Bangor University for this course?
- TV presenter Steve Backshall is now part of our teaching team.
- Budding primatologists will be part of a School with an established and growing primatology research group, through which they can engage with ongoing research activities and interact with specialist staff.
- Our excellent teaching facilities include a zoology museum with a diverse collection of vertebrate and invertebrate specimens, including primates, a growing collection of non-human primate and early human fossil casts, marine and freshwater aquaria and a botanical garden close to the Menai strait.
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.
