Biological Sciences (Zoology) with Preliminary Year and Professional Training Year BA (Hons)/BSc (Hons)

Our Biological Sciences (Zoology) degree with Preliminary Year and Professional Training Year is a five-year course. The Preliminary Year covers key topics in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics and leads to a BSc in any of our Bioscience degree subjects. The preliminary year is designed for students who lack sufficient background in science, and provides you with the knowledge and understanding needed to thrive in year one and beyond.Zoology is the study of all kinds of animals, including their anatomy, physiology, genetics, and their adaptations for survival and reproduction in different environments. This is vital knowledge if we are to maintain healthy natural environments, control pests and diseases, conserve biodiversity and preserve endangered species. This degree is aimed at anyone interested in the broad field of animal biology. It is an interdisciplinary course that draws on the research strengths of the School, and, as well as covering the evolution and diversity of the main animal groups, also offers the opportunity to study modules in ecology, physiology and genetics. We have particular expertise in behaviour and brain function, and you will study both as part of this course.As part of this course you will spend a sandwich year on placement at a field centre, zoological or botanical institute, museum, research laboratory, or other approved establishment of your choice. This is a great opportunity to gain professional research experience, and it has been shown to greatly enhance your degree and subsequent employment prospects. Many placements are in the UK, but our students also take up placements in international locations, including Southeast Asia, South Africa, Germany, Italy, Australia, Madagascar, and the USA.Our Zoology degree also includes opportunities for practical field work, enabling you to develop valuable field research techniques. As well taking part in field research projects, you can also choose from our specialised, project-based field courses in the UK and further afield.As a student on our Zoology degree, you will have the flexibility to tailor the course to fit your own interests and career aspirations. Your degree title remains flexible up until your final year, and you can either choose to continue with Biological Sciences (Zoology) to graduation, or switch to another of our bioscience degrees during your first two years of study. Your final degree title will depend on module selection, and your Personal Tutor will guide you through the available option. You may also have the option of switching to our four-year MBiol integrated master's degree, which forms an excellent basis for a future career in scientific research.This course provides an excellent foundation for a broad range of careers and offers strong training for research scientists. Our graduates have gone on to a range of exciting and fulfilling careers, including marine ecology, field-based or zoo-based research and conservation, environmental law, biomedical research, scientific publishing, journalism, teaching and veterinary science. Many also choose to further their studies by pursuing a master’s degree or PhD.Distinctive Features of the ProgrammeThe School offers access to a wide range of exciting training opportunities, with a field centre in Borneo, and strong involvement in the University’s Sustainable Places Research Institute and Water Research Institute. We also attract substantial external research funding, which will enable you to make use of the latest equipment and facilities in your project work. Field work is an important element of Zoology, and with a variety of natural environments virtually on your doorstep, Cardiff is the perfect location in which to develop and hone your skills as a field researcher.You may also be i