Zoology BSc (Hons) | University of Nottingham

International student

Course overview

Are you fascinated by the incredible diversity of animal life, and eager to play a role in its conservation?

Our BSc Zoology degree, accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, offers an in-depth exploration of animals at every level, from their genetic makeup to their impact on ecosystems. You'll develop a strong foundation in core biological principles while tailoring your studies with optional modules spanning animal behaviour, conservation, physiology, neuroscience, and biological photography.

With a strong emphasis on practical skills, employability, and global challenges, our course prepares you for careers in research, conservation, environmental consultancy, and beyond.

Course highlights

Opportunities to study abroad, undertake field courses and complete work placements with employers.
Choose from our ever-changing range of research projects, from studying animal behaviour in the lab to field expeditions in the UK and abroad – supervised and supported by leading experts in their fields.
In your final year, you can undertake a capstone project, applying your expertise to real-world challenges in a collaborative working group.

Proven results

We’re top 10 in the UK for zoology (The Guardian University Guide 2026).
The average starting salary for life sciences undergraduates within 15 months of graduation was £27,563 (HESA Graduate Outcomes 2022/23).

How you will learn

You will study in the School of Life Sciences building on University Park Campus and the Medical School, which is located within the Queen's Medical Centre. We have large lecture theatres, smaller seminar rooms and large multidisciplinary laboratories.

Teaching methods

eLearning
Field courses
Lab sessions
Lectures
Placements
Practical classes
Problem-based learning
Self-study
Seminars
Tutorials
Workshops

How you will be assessed

Assessment varies on the module being studied but typically is a combination of the types below. Exams happen twice a year at the end of each semester.

Assessment methods

Examinations
Dissertation
Presentations
Coursework
Formative assessments
Poster presentations
Practical write-ups
Research project

Contact time and study hours

You typically have around 15 to 16 contact hours per week, taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, laboratory practicals and field courses. In addition, you have individual and small-group tutorials supporting taught content and student wellbeing.

When not attending timetabled sessions, you’ll be expected to continue learning independently through self-study.

Modules

6 modules

Zoology Field Skills

This module immerses you in practical field zoology through an engaging residential field course, complemented by self-directed study. You’ll spend most of your time conducting fieldwork, supported by lab work, workshops, and seminars. Using data you gather yourself, you’ll explore the incredible diversity of animals and plants in European habitats, learning how to identify species, count populations, and understand the factors influencing their distributions. 

For those unable to participate in the residential fieldwork, alternative opportunities will ensure the learning outcomes are met. This hands-on experience provides a rich understanding of biodiversity, combining scientific investigation with a direct connection to nature. 

Fundamental and Professional Skills for the Life Sciences

This module will introduce you to the essential skills required for your career and provide hands-on experience of the basic techniques required for life scientists. We’ll cover statistical methods for data analysis, provide an introduction to digital competencies for life scientists and investigate ethical standards in research.

You will also explore data acquisition techniques and enhance your ability to critically read and interpret scientific literature. The module emphasises effective communication of scientific material through various media and will encourage reflective practice in the development of these, and other skills.

The module will also explore the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, considering global challenges through scientific innovation and responsibility.

Cellular and Molecular Biology

In this module, you’ll explore the fascinating world of cellular and molecular biology. You’ll delve into topics such as the intricate structure and function of cells and their organelles, the workings of proteins and enzymes, and the essential roles of DNA, transcription, and translation. You’ll also examine how genes are organised and regulated, alongside the metabolism of macromolecules and the architecture of cell membranes. 

To deepen your understanding, practical classes will complement the theoretical content, giving you the chance to apply what you’ve learned in a hands-on setting. This combination of detailed study and experiential learning will equip you with a solid foundation in cellular and molecular biology. 

Anatomy and Physiology

In this module, you’ll dive into the fascinating interplay between physiology and metabolism in animals, including humans. You’ll explore major organ systems in the body including cardiovascular, nervous, respiratory, and digestive systems, learning how energy metabolism and body temperature are carefully regulated. This provides a foundation for understanding how animals adapt to their environments and maintain metabolic balance for survival.

Through practical sessions, you’ll gain hands-on experience, examining how physiological and metabolic processes control organ systems. You’ll also uncover the biochemical basis of ordinary life activities and see how these mechanisms are affected under pathological conditions. This blend of theory and practice offers a well-rounded understanding of systems physiology and metabolic homeostasis.

Genetics, Molecular Evolution and Diversity

This module invites you to uncover the fascinating principles of genetics, molecular evolution, and diversity. You’ll explore foundational concepts such as inheritance, gene structure and function, and the molecular mechanisms that drive genetic variation. Through the lens of molecular evolutionary processes, you’ll investigate the forces shaping genetic diversity, including natural selection, mutation, and random genetic drift. 

In addition, you’ll examine the diversity of life, from microorganisms to eukaryotes, and delve into the unique biochemical processes of animals and plants. By integrating molecular biology with evolutionary theory, this module provides a holistic understanding of how life’s genetic and biochemical foundations connect across all organisms. 

Biodiversity, Ecology and Behaviour

This module provides an introduction to the fundamentals of biodiversity, ecology and animal behaviour. Biodiversity is explored through categorising organisms in the tree of life and by examining the levels of biological organisation, from genes in cells up to communities in biogeographic zones. Ecological topics are explored by examining ecosystem processes, competition, cooperation, predation, parasites and pathogens, life histories, resources, niches, demography and sustainability. Understanding animal behaviour in response to their environment begins with asking rigorous questions about foraging, signalling, sexual selection, parental care, altruism and also allows us to understand human behaviour in an ecological context.

2 modules

Further Skills in the Life Sciences B

This module focuses on advancing the essential skills needed by life science students for your academic and professional development. Building on fundamental skills training in year one, it develops understanding of experimental design, statistical methods for data analysis, enhances digital competencies relevant to life sciences, and continues to examine ethical standards in research. You will delve deeper into data acquisition, computational techniques, and the critical evaluation of research and scientific literature. The module places a strong emphasis on effectively communicating scientific concepts across various media while fostering reflective practices for skill development. Additionally, it addresses global challenges through the lens of scientific innovation and responsibility. Practical and workshop classes will provide hands-on experience with techniques essential for life science professionals. Teaching sessions and assessments will be tailored to different student degree groups: Biochemistry, Biology, and Zoology.

Genetics and Genomics

This module provides you with an introduction to genetics and genomics, bridging classical genetic principles with modern genomic technologies. You’ll gain an understanding of gene structure and function, including aspects of DNA replication, transcription, translation and RNA biology. You’ll also explore the biology relating to inheritance patterns, genetic variation, and the application of genomics in research and health.

Taught content will illustrate how to analyse the genetic basis of phenotypic variation, evaluate its effects on individuals and populations, and synthesise insights to explain how genetic factors influence traits. Consideration is given to the technological advancements in sequencing, bioinformatics, the ethical considerations surrounding genomic data, and industrial and societal applications.

7 modules

Cellular Communication in the Nervous System

In this module, you’ll delve into the intricate cellular and molecular mechanisms that enable communication within the nervous system. You’ll gain a deep understanding of how neurons and glial cells work together to process and transmit biochemical signals, as well as how they interact with target tissues to regulate essential functions.

Your studies will focus on the molecular and cellular levels, exploring intercellular and intracellular signalling along with the pathways and cascades involved. This detailed examination offers valuable insights into the fundamental processes that underpin nervous system communication, equipping you with a strong foundation in this essential area of neuroscience.

Evolution and Development of Animals

This module delves into the intricate relationship between developmental biology and evolution, examining how modifications in developmental processes drive evolutionary changes. You’ll explore the genetic, molecular, and cellular mechanisms that give rise to new traits and structures, shaping species adaptation and diversification.

Key topics include gene regulatory networks, developmental pathways, and evolutionary constraints, which will be studied to understand how they influence morphological variation across species and their effects on health. Through engaging case studies and cutting-edge research, the module bridges the divide between microevolutionary processes and macroevolutionary patterns, offering a deeper appreciation of the complexity of organismal form and evolution.

Brains in the Wild

This module introduces you to the neurobiology of animal behaviour. Using an evolutionary framework, you will examine topics such as navigation, foraging, fear and threat avoidance, and interaction with conspecifics, including reproductive and parenting behaviours.

Practical classes will demonstrate the neurobiological basis of fundamental behaviours. Using examples across the animal kingdom, the module demonstrates how experimental, observational and modelling approaches integrate to explain how and why animals behave as they do.

Immunology

This module provides a comprehensive understanding of the cellular (e.g. T cells, B cells) and molecular (e.g. innate immune signalling, antibody production) aspects of the immune system in health and disease.

You will learn about how specific aspects of microbial physiology and biochemistry impacts the immune response to infection. The mechanisms by which medically relevant pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses and fungi, are able to evade the immunological response will be explored, in addition to the development of non-infectious diseases resulting from immune dysregulation.

Development of the Nervous System

In this module, you’ll delve into the development and organisation of the nervous system, examining its complexities through comparative studies of invertebrates and vertebrates. You’ll explore evolutionary concepts and analyse the nervous system at molecular, cellular, and organismal levels, gaining insights into how it develops, functions, and supports life.

The module places a strong focus on the mammalian brain, offering a detailed understanding of its structure and function. Through this comprehensive exploration, you’ll uncover the intricate processes that shape the nervous system and its remarkable adaptations across different species.

Fundamentals of Ecology

You will learn about the forces determining the distribution and abundance of species and be able to use models to predict the dynamics of populations under a range of conditions. You will recognise how interactions between species can drive co-evolutionary processes leading to an understanding of the organisation of natural systems working systematically from populations through to communities, ecosystems and biogeographical scales.

Ecology Field Course

This field course will introduce you to practical techniques in field biology, data analysis and presentation. You’ll use self-collected data to learn about key concepts in ecology such as species richness, ecological networks and species-area relationships.

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2 modules

Project

This module allows you to undertake a research project tailored to your own interests and aligned with the expertise of an academic staff member. You’ll carry out original research, applying the skills and methodologies you’ve developed in the research skills module.

Your work will culminate in a dissertation, where you’ll document the research process, analyse and interpret your findings, and present a thorough discussion of the results. This module provides you with invaluable experience in independent research and the opportunity to deepen your knowledge in a specialised area of your choice.

Innovation for the Future: Entrepreneurship, Ethics, and Engagement in Science

In this module, you’ll explore the dynamic relationship between science and society, delving into how scientific advancements influence and are influenced by the world around us. You’ll examine the ethical frameworks that shape the practice of science in modern societies and consider the pathways by which discoveries are transformed into commercial or therapeutic applications.

You’ll also investigate how scientific knowledge is communicated to the public and its role in addressing pressing global and societal challenges of the 21st century. This module encourages a critical perspective on science's impact, offering valuable insights into its potential for both progress and controversy.

10 modules

Pathogens: Vaccines and Therapeutics

This module explores advanced aspects of pathogen-host interactions, and how we can combat diseases through medical interventions.

You will learn the principles of vaccinology to prevent infection or disease and explore different therapies, including antibiotic alternatives, to treat bacterial infection.

We’ll deep dive into specific examples of pathogens from different groups of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, protozoa and/or fungi that pose a significant threat today will be considered alongside vaccines and therapies, including their limitations and potential new solutions.

Neurological Disorders

This module delves into the genetic, biochemical, and pathophysiological foundations of neurological disorders, shedding light on how dysfunction arises in the brain and nervous system. You’ll explore key topics such as neuron-glial cell interactions, neurotransmitter systems, synaptic plasticity, neuroinflammation, and blood-brain barrier dysregulation. Additional focus will be placed on molecular mechanisms like protein misfolding, cellular stress, and synaptic dysfunction that contribute to neurodegeneration.

The module also examines interdisciplinary fields like neuroimmunology and neuro-oncology, investigating immune interactions in autoimmune diseases and brain cancers. Emphasising real-world applications, it highlights how scientific discoveries drive advancements in diagnostic tools, innovative treatments, and improved patient outcomes. By understanding these complex mechanisms, you’ll appreciate the pivotal role of research in addressing neurological disorders and shaping healthcare.

Health, Ageing and Disease

In this module, you’ll explore the biological processes of ageing and disease, and their impacts on human physiology, disease, and frailty.

Delve into the molecular and cellular mechanisms of ageing and their effects on whole body function, with a focus on age-related diseases such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity and liver diseases.

We’ll also investigate the interplay of nutrition and exercise in regulating human metabolism and mitigating disease risks. A key component examines the dual role of exercise and nutrition in influencing disease prevention and progression and serving as therapeutic interventions.

You’ll also have the opportunity to evaluate strategies to promote healthy ageing, and disease prevention and management.

Current Topics in Human Environmental Impacts on Health

In this module, you’ll examine the extensive ways human activities impact the environment and affect species health on a global scale. You’ll explore the distribution and biological effects of pollutants such as pharmaceuticals, heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides, and microplastics. The module also investigates how habitat loss and human-wildlife interactions influence pathogen transmission, gut microbiome dynamics, and parasitic infestations, offering insights into the ecological consequences of anthropogenic changes.

You’ll delve into additional topics like the effects of natural toxins, volatile compounds, and climate-driven habitat shifts. Through case studies and critical discussions, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of how human actions disrupt ecosystems and biological health, equipping you with the knowledge to address these pressing environmental challenges.

Adapting to Change: Evolution and Behaviour

This module examines current debates and classic conundrums about evolution in the context of behaviour. It consists of a series of student-led presentations and discussion groups, supported by workshops. Example topics include: adaptation, sexual and asexual reproduction, sexual selection, kinship theory, communication, and human behavioural ecology. During the module we will develop your skills in understanding assessment criteria, presenting to an audience and writing and editing.

Bioinformatics and Computational Biology

This module delves into the transformative intersection of biology, data science, and computational techniques, showcasing how big data is reshaping modern biological research. You’ll explore the principles of bioinformatics and computational biology, learning how to analyse large-scale biological datasets using cutting-edge tools and algorithms. Key topics include data mining, machine learning applications in biology, and effective data visualisation methods.

In addition, the module addresses the ethical considerations of working with biological data, fostering a critical understanding of this rapidly evolving field. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications, you’ll develop essential skills for navigating the complex world of biological big data.

Real-World Applications of Genetics and Genomics

This module examines the transformative power of genomics and its real-world applications, from revolutionising medicine and disease tracking to advancing conservation and evolutionary biology. You’ll explore how genomic technologies offer insights into healthcare innovation and trace the origins of species, shedding light on processes such as adaptation, speciation, and their relevance to modern populations.

The module also highlights the pivotal role of genomics in conservation, showing how genetic data helps monitor biodiversity, protect endangered species, and support ecosystem restoration. By connecting these diverse topics, the module demonstrates how genomics addresses critical challenges in human health, environmental conservation, and industrial applications, providing a holistic view of its impact across multiple fields.

The Cell Biology of Cancer

This module delves into advanced concepts of tumourigenesis and tumour progression, providing insights into the molecular and cellular mechanisms behind tumour development. You’ll explore the multistep nature of tumour progression, its divergence from normal biological development, and key topics such as tumour immunology, tumour evolution, and the tumour microenvironment.

The module places a strong emphasis on cancer research, highlighting how understanding the fundamentals of cancer biology contributes to the creation of innovative therapies. You’ll also examine the biochemical foundations of cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy, offering a comprehensive view of how cutting-edge science drives advancements in cancer care.

Illuminating Life: Advanced Imaging Technologies

This module explores the principles, applications and advancements in imaging technologies across biological and biomedical sciences. You’ll understand the theoretical knowledge and applications of imaging techniques used in research and industry. Emphasis is placed on critically evaluating the role of imaging in advancing our understanding of life sciences.

Conservation Biology

Consider a range of approaches to conservation biology, such as the measurement and monitoring of biodiversity, and the legal frameworks and management strategies that exist to protect it. You will discuss particular threats to biodiversity, such as habitat loss and invasive species. How do modern methods and molecular tools enable better conservation planning and delivery?

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Language study as part of this degree

Our Language Centre offers many languages, and you may start as a beginner or at a more advanced level and you may be able to choose to study a language as part of this degree.

Learning another language can open career opportunities around the globe and enriches your CV. It could also help you in your studies by being able to access learning materials in other languages. If you are planning to travel or work abroad it will help you to broaden your cultural understanding.

Find out more about learning a language as part of your degree.

Select student type

Quick glance

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements listed apply to 2027 entry.

A levels

AAB

32 points overall

A level and GCSE requirements

Required subjects

Biology/human biology and a second science at A level. Second science subjects can be from chemistry, maths, physics, psychology, geography, geology, further maths, statistics, environmental science, computer science and PE.

A pass is required in science practical tests, where these are assessed separately.

Excluded subjects

General studies, critical thinking, global perspectives, research thinking skills

GCSEs

GCSE English and maths grade 4

IB requirements

IB score

32 points overall or 6,6,5 in three HL certificates

IB requirements

HL6, HL5 in biology and a second science in any order. Second science can be from chemistry, physics, mathematics, psychology, geography, computer science and sports, exercise and health.

Additional Qualifications Offer Reduction Scheme

Applicants to this course may be eligible for our Additional Qualifications Offer Reduction Scheme. If you achieve a grade A in an EPQ, Core Maths*, IB Extended Essay or additional AS level qualification* then you will receive a one grade reduced offer for this course.

Please note that if you qualify for an enhanced contextual offer or receive an alternative offer based on taking four A levels, your additional qualification will not be taken into consideration as we are unable to make any further adjustments to your offer.

* Additional eligibility requirements apply. View further details on this scheme.

Alternative qualifications

We recognise that applicants have a wealth of different experiences and follow a variety of pathways into higher education.

Consequently we treat all applicants with alternative qualifications (besides A levels and the International Baccalaureate) on an individual basis, and we gladly accept students with a whole range of less conventional qualifications including:

Access to HE Diploma
Advanced Diploma
BTEC HND/HNC
BTEC Extended Diploma

This list is not exhaustive. The entry requirements for alternative qualifications can be quite specific; for example you may need to take certain modules and achieve a specified grade in those modules. Please contact us to discuss the transferability of your qualification. Please see the alternative qualifications page for more information.

RQF BTEC Nationals

BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Sciences (modules taken must be comparable to subject specific requirement) - DDD
BTEC Diploma in Applied Sciences (modules taken must be comparable to subject specific requirement) alongside A level biology - DD plus B
BTEC Extended Certificate and two A levels in biology and a second science - D plus AB

Access to HE Diploma

Access to HE Diploma with 45 credits overall, 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction, and 15 at Merit to include 15 credits at Distinction in biology and 15 credits at Distinction in a second science

Contextual offers

We make contextual offers to students who may have experienced barriers that have restricted progress at school or college. Our standard contextual offer is usually one grade lower than the advertised entry requirements, and our enhanced contextual offer is usually two grades lower than the advertised entry requirements. To qualify for a contextual offer, you must have Home/UK fee status and meet specific criteria – check if you’re eligible.

Foundation progression options

If you are a Home applicant and do not meet the entry requirements for direct entry to this course, you may be interested in researching our Science with Foundation Year BSc or Science with Foundation Year MSci course. Students successfully completing and meeting the specific progression requirements of the Science with a Foundation Year course are guaranteed progression on to a selection of undergraduate courses. Please note progression to some courses may require meeting additional criteria such as a successful interview.

You can view all pathways and progression criteria in our progression table.

Mature students

At the University of Nottingham, we have a valuable community of mature students and we appreciate their contribution to the wider student population. You can find lots of useful information on the mature students webpage.

A year in Data Analytics and AI

Add an extra year to your degree to understand the latest in data analytics and artificial intelligence. You’ll gain practical experience and a solid foundation in computing and statistics, building the technical and professional skills that employers need.

Futureproof your career with this extra year.

Study abroad

On this course, you can apply to study abroad at one of our partner institutions or at University of Nottingham China or University of Nottingham Malaysia.

If you are successful in applying to study abroad, you will get the opportunity to broaden your horizons and enhance your CV by experiencing another culture. Teaching is typically in English, but there may be opportunities to study in another language if you are sufficiently fluent.

You can choose to study similar modules to your counterparts in the UK or expand your knowledge by taking other options.

The school you are joining may also have additional study abroad options available. Please visit the school website for more information.

Please note

In order to study abroad you will need to achieve the relevant academic requirements as set by the university and meet the selection criteria of both the university and the partner institution. The partner institution is under no obligation to accept you even if you do meet the relevant criteria.

Optional placement year

If your course does not have a compulsory placement, integrated year in industry or compulsory year abroad where there is already an opportunity to undertake a work placement as part of that experience, you may be able to apply to undertake an optional placement year. While it is the student’s responsibility to find and secure a placement, our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout this process. Contact placements@nottingham.ac.uk to find out more.

The school/faculty you are joining may also have additional placement opportunities. Please visit the school/faculty website for more information.

Please note

In order to undertake an optional placement year, you will need to achieve the relevant academic requirements as set by the university and meet any requirements specified by the placement host. There is no guarantee that you will be able to undertake an optional placement as part of your course.

Disclaimer

Please be aware that study abroad, compulsory year abroad, optional placements/internships and integrated year in industry opportunities may change at any time for a number of reasons, including curriculum developments, changes to arrangements with partner universities or placement/industry hosts, travel restrictions or other circumstances outside of the university’s control. Every effort will be made to update this information as quickly as possible should a change occur.

Tuition fees

2027/28 (UK undergraduate students)

This is the UK undergraduate tuition fee for the academic year 27/28. It may increase for the academic year 28/29 and we will update our information once we have received confirmation of the fee.

For full details including fees for part-time students and reduced fees during your time studying abroad or on placement (where applicable), please visit our fees page.

Additional costs

As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses. You should be able to access most of the books you will need through our libraries, though you may wish to purchase your own copies.

Optional field courses we run are to France and Portugal. These are subsidised by the school, however you will need to cover the cost of your own travel to the field sites (travel costs vary from around £80 to £250).

Scholarships and bursaries

The University of Nottingham offers a wide range of bursaries and scholarships. These funds can provide you with an additional source of non-repayable financial help. For up to date information regarding tuition fees, visit our fees and finance pages.

Home students

Over one third of our UK students receive our means-tested core bursary. Full details can be found on our financial support pages.

A 'home' student is one who meets certain UK residence criteria. These are the same criteria as apply to eligibility for home funding from Student Finance.

Quick glance

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements listed apply to 2027 entry.

32 points overall

A levels

AAB

IB requirements

IB score

32 points overall or 6,6,5 in three HL certificates

IB requirements

HL6, HL5 in biology and a second science in any order. Second science can be from chemistry, physics, mathematics, psychology, geography, computer science and sports, exercise and health.

A level and GCSE requirements

Required subjects

A pass is required in science practical tests, where these are assessed separately.

Excluded subjects

General studies, critical thinking, global perspectives, research thinking skills

GCSEs

GCSE English and maths grade 4

Additional Qualifications Offer Reduction Scheme

* Additional eligibility requirements apply. View further details on this scheme.

Alternative qualifications

We recognise that applicants have a wealth of different experiences and follow a variety of pathways into higher education.

Access to HE Diploma
Advanced Diploma
BTEC HND/HNC
BTEC Extended Diploma

RQF BTEC Nationals

BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Sciences (modules taken must be comparable to subject specific requirement) - DDD
BTEC Diploma in Applied Sciences (modules taken must be comparable to subject specific requirement) alongside A level biology - DD plus B
BTEC Extended Certificate and two A levels in biology and a second science - D plus AB

Access to HE Diploma

Access to HE Diploma with 45 credits overall, 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction, and 15 at Merit to include 15 credits at Distinction in biology and 15 credits at Distinction in a second science

IELTS/English requirements

IELTS

6.5 (no less than 6.0 in any element)

English language requirements

As well as IELTS (listed above), we also accept other English language qualifications. This includes TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE, GCSE, IB and O level English. Check our English language policies and equivalencies for further details.

For presessional English or one-year foundation courses, you must take IELTS for UKVI to meet visa regulations.

If you need support to meet the required level, you may be able to attend a Presessional English for Academic Purposes (PEAP) course. Our Centre for English Language Education is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.

If you successfully complete your presessional course to the required level, you can then progress to your degree course. This means that you won't need to retake IELTS or equivalent.

High school qualifications

Check our country-specific information for guidance on qualifications from your country.

Visa restrictions

International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK. Student route visas can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The University of Nottingham does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses. The Standard Visitor visa route is not appropriate in all cases. Please contact the university’s Visa and Immigration team if you need advice about your visa options.

Foundation progression options

If you don't meet our entry requirements there is the option to study the science foundation programme. You may have the opportunity to progress onto the BSc programme, subject to your performance on the foundation programme. There is a course for UK students and one for EU/international students.

Mature students

A year in Data Analytics and AI

Futureproof your career with this extra year.

Study abroad

On this course, you can apply to study abroad at one of our partner institutions or at University of Nottingham China or University of Nottingham Malaysia.

You can choose to study similar modules to your counterparts in the UK or expand your knowledge by taking other options.

The school you are joining may also have additional study abroad options available. Please visit the school website for more information.

Please note

Optional placement year

The school/faculty you are joining may also have additional placement opportunities. Please visit the school/faculty website for more information.

Please note

Disclaimer

Tuition fees

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA).

For full details including fees for part-time students and reduced fees during your time studying abroad or on placement (where applicable), see our fees page.

Additional costs

Scholarships and bursaries

International students

We offer a range of international undergraduate scholarships for high-achieving international scholars who can put their Nottingham degree to great use in their careers.

Careers overview

You will have a broad understanding of the biology of animals, at both the organismal and the molecular level, and will have had the opportunity to focus on your particular areas of interest. Your final year project will have given you the freedom to pursue a specific research area of interest. The combined knowledge and skills gained from all years of your undergrad degree will prepare you for either further study or a career in many varied industries including:

Conservation and zoos
Ecological consultancy
Graduate veterinary programmes
Animal care sector
Teaching
Science communications and journalism
University research
Wildlife film-making and photography
Scientific governmental agencies

Find out more about the career options open to zoology graduates, including recent Nottingham graduate destinations by visiting our careers website.

Job prospects

Average starting salary and career progression

The average starting salary for life sciences undergraduates within 15 months of graduation was £27,563 (HESA Graduate Outcomes 2022/23).

Support every step of the way

Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service will work with you to boost your employability even further – helping with job and course applications, finding relevant work experience and hosting events that connect you with a wide range of potential employers.

The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain’s leading graduate employers.

We’re also the top UK university for the number of graduates entering highly skilled jobs (HESA Graduate Outcomes survey data 2021–2025 for full-time, UK, UG and PG graduates).

Careers and Employability

Royal Society of Biology

This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

Welcome to your campus

At University Park, nature, architecture and student life come together on one unforgettable campus. Explore beautiful green spaces, unwind by the lake and enjoy a vibrant sense of community. It’s the perfect setting for an extraordinary university experience where you can learn, grow and thrive.

Zoology - U6UZOLGY

Course overview

Why choose this course?

Teaching and learning

Modules

Core modules

6 modules

Zoology Field Skills

Fundamental and Professional Skills for the Life Sciences

Cellular and Molecular Biology

Anatomy and Physiology

Genetics, Molecular Evolution and Diversity

Biodiversity, Ecology and Behaviour

Core modules

2 modules

Further Skills in the Life Sciences B

Genetics and Genomics

Optional modules

Core modules

2 modules

Project

Innovation for the Future: Entrepreneurship, Ethics, and Engagement in Science

Optional modules

Language study as part of this degree

Select student type

Entry requirements

3 years full-time

£10,050 per year

Entry requirements

3 years full-time

Fees

Careers

Accreditation

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