About This Course
Have you always wanted to work with animals? If so, this degree is for you.
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.
Course Content
On this course you will take 120 credits each year made up of lectures, practicals, and interactive exercises, as well as field trips and tutorials in years 1 and 2. The final year can include an integrated research project, which is supervised by a member of staff on a subject to suit the student’s interests. Modules become more specialised as the degree progresses, and the number of compulsory modules varies between years. Assessment is by a mixture of formal examination and continuous assessment.
Facilities
General University Facilities
Library and Archive Services
Our four libraries provide a range of attractive study environments including collaborative work areas, meeting rooms and silent study spaces.
We have an extensive collection of books and journals and many of the journals are available online in full-text format.
We house one of the largest university-based archives not only in Wales, but also the UK. Allied to the Archives is the Special Collections of rare printed books.
Learning Resources
There is a range of learning resources available, supported by experienced staff, to help you in your studies.
The University’s IT Services provides computing, media and reprographics facilities and services including:
- Over 1,150 computers for students, with some PC rooms open 24 hours a day
- Blackboard, a commercial Virtual Learning Environment, that makes learning materials available on-line.
Careers
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.
EXPLORE MORE IN ZOOLOGY
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.
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 Skills 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. If you have any questions in the meantime, please get in touch.
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