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

Our Biological Sciences (Zoology) degree with Preliminary Year is a 4 year course. The Preliminary Year covers key topics in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics and leads to a BSc in any of the subjects offered by the School of Biosciences. The preliminary year is designed for students who lack a sufficient background in science, and it will provide you with the knowledge and understanding needed in the year one curriculum 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. Our Biological Sciences (Zoology) degree is aimed at anyone interested in the broad field of animal biology. It is a truly interdisciplinary course that draws on the research strengths found throughout the School, and, as well as covering the evolution and diversity of the main animal groups, you will also have the opportunity to study modules in ecology, physiology and genetics. We have expertise in behaviour and brain function, and you will study both behaviour and neuroscience as part of this course. The course is closely linked to the research interests of our staff (many of whom are leaders in their field); this allows you to experience the excitement of learning in an active research environment, and helps to ensure that the topics you cover are highly topical, and of relevance and importance in today’s world. Our Zoology degree also includes ample opportunities for practical field work, enabling you to develop valuable field research techniques. As well taking part in field research projects throughout your time at Cardiff, you can also choose from our specialised, project-based field courses in the UK and further afield.As with all of the degrees in the School of Biosciences, our Zoology course offers the flexibility to tailor the course to your own interests and career aspirations. Your degree title also remains flexible up until your final year, so that you can either continue with BSc 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 your module selection, and your Personal Tutor will guide you through the options available to you. 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 in both scientific and non-scientific related fields, including marine ecology, biology, 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 of Biosciences offers access to a wide range of exciting training opportunities, with a conservation-focused research centre in Borneo, and strong involvement in the University’s flagship Sustainable Places Research Institute and Water Research Institute. We also attract substantial external research funding and this will enable you to make use of the latest equipment, techniques and facilities in your project work. Field work is an important element of Zoology, and with a variety of natural environments - from rural countryside to the Welsh coastline - virtually on your doorstep, Car