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Studying zoology degree guide 

If you’re fascinated by the animal kingdom and the creatures that live within it then zoology is likely to be right up your street. You’ll learn about animals of all shapes and sizes as well as the habitats they live in.

Eleanor Foulds
by Eleanor Foulds
Last Updated:
03 Nov 2022

During a zoology degree, you’ll do loads of practical learning, mainly through fieldwork and lab time so it’s a great option if you’re someone who likes getting stuck in. Looking after our planet and the animals that inhabit it is a huge priority within the modern world. If you want to play a part in it and follow in the footsteps of people like David Attenborough and Steve Irwin, then this is the place to start. 

Find zoology courses

What do you need to get on a zoology degree?


The ranges of entry requirements for zoology are as follows:

  • UCAS points: 136– 80

  • A-levels: AAB – CCD

  • BTEC Nationals: DDD – MPP

  • International Baccalaureate: 36–30

Most zoology courses will also ask for an A-level (or equivalent) in one or two science-based subjects like biology or chemistry.

What zoology degrees can you study?


Undergraduate degrees in zoology include:

  • BSc Zoology
  • BSc Zoology and Entrepreneurship
  • BSc Animal Biology
  • BSc Animal and Conservation Biology

What topics does a zoology degree cover?


Common modules for zoology include:

  • Animal biology and physiology
  • Applied genetics
  • Biodiversity
  • Cell biology
  • Ecology and evolution
  • Habitats

What do you learn studying a zoology degree?


Studying a zoology degree will help you gain industry-specific skills like:

  • Lab skills
  • Field surveying
  • Species identification
  • Scientific data analysis
  • Knowledge of habitats and ecosystems

More general, transferable skills you’ll pick up include:

  • Data management 
  • Research 
  • Report writing 
  • Presenting 
  • Problem-solving 
  • Communication

What professional accreditations can you get with a zoology degree?


Zoology degrees may be accredited by the Royal Society of Biology or the Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour (ASAB).

The degree may include registration as an ASAB Certificated Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CCAB).

What can you do with a zoology degree?


There are many jobs you can get with a zoology degree like: 

How long is a zoology degree?


A zoology degree usually takes three years to study. However, many unis will give the option of a sandwich year (placement), which will increase your course to four years. 

Some unis also give the option to do a foundation year before first year to help get you up to speed if needed.

How will you be assessed?


Zoology courses usually involve assessment through:

  • Case studies
  • Essays
  • Exams
  • Technical lab reports
  • Presentations
  • Practical assessments
  • Final year dissertation 

What are the postgraduate opportunities?


Your options for further study include:

  • MSc Animal Welfare 
  • MSc Biosciences 
  • MSc Biological Science  
  • MSc Zoology 

What alternatives are there to a zoology degree?


Not sure if a zoology degree is right for you? Check out these related subjects: