If you have always wanted to work with animals, then this specialist MZool is for you! This is a four-year extended undergraduate programme which allows you to graduate either with BSc (Hons) at the end of the third year or with a Master at the end of the fourth year. The fourth year offers a unique opportunity to conduct an extended research project either in the laboratory or in the field.

Zoology is literally all about animals. On this degree you will receive a thorough grounding, exploring the diversity of animal form and function and the evolution and ecology of the major animal groups. You will also consider applied aspects of zoology such as parasitology and the interaction between animals and their environment. You will have the opportunity to acquire a broad range of laboratory and field experience, at home and abroad, whilst acquiring transferable skills associated with scientific training (such as data analysis, writing and presentation skills, IT skills and experience of independent and group-working). You will have access to a spread of Zoology modules covering both vertebrates and invertebrates, as well as a suite of specialist Animal Management modules, designed specifically for this degree programme.

This programme presents a comprehensive, scientific approach to animal management, through the synthesis of multidisciplinary and specialist zoology modules. Central to this programme are two modules exploring research-informed approaches to animal management, including key concepts such as animal husbandry, animal health, nutrition, behaviour, training, facility management, commercial farming and zoo management. Many sessions are applied, incorporating a range of examples from animal collections, aquaria, laboratory facilities and the commercial farming industry. The assessments on these modules are designed around real-world applications of animal management, with a particular focus on preparing you for a career within the industry and enhancing employability. Between the second and third year, you will complete an animal husbandry placement of your choice, which will enhance your employability through the acquisition of hands-on experience. In your final year, you will use your comprehensive knowledge of this area to design and carry out an original research project.

If this sounds like the degree for you, then be sure to pack your wellington boots! Our University farm, Henfaes Research Centre is central to our specialist modules, giving you the opportunity to apply your knowledge and develop practical skills. There will also be many visits to our neighbouring zoos and field sites. Seminar sessions incorporate a range of external professionals working in the animal industry, alongside our own animal technicians – providing you with fantastic network opportunities and support and insight into career pathways, post-graduation.

The programme director for this degree has experience of working within the zoo industry and has developed our animal management modules with the aim of enhancing student employability within this field. In additional to a range of external seminars from professionals within the industry, we have links with the following organisations:

• Welsh Mountain Zoo
• Chester Zoo
• Knowsley Safari Park
• Anglesey Sea Zoo

Why choose Bangor University for this course?    

• The academic member of staff leading this degree programme has experience of working in the zoo industry and has included a range of inspirational expert talks to the animal management modules.
• We have our own University farm, Henfaes Research Centre.
• In the Year 3 Animal Husbandry Placement you’ll acquire animal husbandry experience within the industry.

On this course you will be required to take 120 credits each year made up of lectures, practicals, and interactive exercises, as well as field trips and tutorials in years one and two. The third year will include an integrated research project, which is supervised by a member of staff on a subject to suit your interests. The fourth year offers a unique opportunity to conduct an extended research project either in the laboratory or in the field. During this year, you will gain a detailed knowledge about and understanding of a specific research problem in animal management, via supervised work on a current issue in zoo or commercial farming research. This will include experiential knowledge of how this research is conducted. Modules become more specialised as the degree progresses, and the number of compulsory modules varies between years. You will be assessed by a mixture of formal examination and continuous assessment.

Zoology graduates are qualified for a variety of careers both in biological fields, and in areas where specific scientific knowledge may not be required. Potential employers for Zoology with Animal Management graduates include universities and government research institutions; zoos: see British & Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA); wildlife trusts and environmental protection agencies; the commercial farming industry; wildlife rehabilitation centres; animal rescue centres; animal research facilities; animal research laboratories.

Zoology encompasses animal behaviour, animal physiology, evolution, the interactions between animals and the environment and wildlife conservation. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Bangor University is the obvious choice for anyone wanting to study Zoology as our location presents the best natural laboratory in the UK.