UNIVERSITY OF SHEFFIELD · UNITED KINGDOM
Zoology BSc
Bachelor's · Taught in en · UCAS C300
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Top 15 in the UK for ZoologyGuardian University Guide 2026
- Hands-on lab and field experienceIncluding fieldwork in the Peak District and potential international trips
- State-of-the-art facilitiesFor investigating climate change, model organisms, and population dynamics
- Optional placement yearGain professional experience with organisations like Wildlife Trusts
- Accredited by the Royal Society of BiologyEnsures development of essential scientific and transferable skills
- Final-year research projectIn-depth study in lab, field, computer modelling, or science communication
This three-year BSc Zoology course focuses on animals, their evolution, and their interactions with the environment, biodiversity, and conservation efforts. You will explore the past, present, and future of animal life, from the origins of major animal groups to current threats. The curriculum covers the breadth of invertebrates and vertebrates, their evolution, physiology, behavior, and responses to global change. You will also learn how biodiversity is maintained and lost, and apply this knowledge to issues like wildlife conservation, ecosystem function, and global sustainability. The course encourages independent thinking and creative expression, with hands-on laboratory work, anatomical studies in the Alfred Denny Museum of Zoology, and fieldwork in locations like the Peak District and further afield in the UK or abroad. You can choose to specialize in areas such as biodiversity conservation, evolutionary biology, palaeontology, genetics, or ecological modelling. The program develops practical fieldwork, laboratory, and transferable skills, including project management, problem-solving, communication, and data analysis, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers.
Curriculum
The curriculum is structured over three years, with the first year building a foundation in biological knowledge and skills. While first and second-year modules are confirmed, details for the third year are subject to revision. The first year covers genetics, evolution, cell function, and topics like immune responses, proteins, sexual selection, and microbial diversity. Skills modules focus on laboratory techniques (microscopy, experimental design, data analysis) and professional skills (CV development, job application). All zoology students study 'Form and Function of Living Organisms,' and can choose a specialist module in biodiversity, climate and conservation, neuroscience, or biochemistry.
- First year
- Experimental Skills for Bioscientists
- Professional Skills for Bioscientists
- Form and Function of Living Organisms
- Second year
- Third year
Careers
Graduates develop practical fieldwork, laboratory, and transferable skills, including project management, problem-solving, communication, and data analysis, making them attractive to employers. An optional work placement year provides valuable experience in science and non-science roles with organisations such as the Wildlife Trusts, Field Studies Council, and the Environment Agency.
- Wildlife conservationist
- Ecologist
- Researcher
- Science communicator
- Environmental consultant
- Laboratory technician
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the Zoology BSc programme?
- The typical A Level requirement is AAB. You must also meet the English language proficiency requirement of IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component, or an equivalent qualification.
- How much does the Zoology BSc programme cost for international students?
- Specific tuition fees and living cost estimates for international students are not provided on the program page. Please refer to the university's main fees and funding pages for detailed information.
- How long does the Zoology BSc programme take to complete?
- This is a three-year Bachelor of Science (BSc) programme.
- What is the language of instruction for this programme?
- The language of instruction for this programme is English. For entry, you typically need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- How do I apply for the Zoology BSc programme?
- Applications are typically submitted through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). Ensure you check the academic and English language requirements and submit your application by the UCAS deadline, usually in January.
- What career paths can I pursue after graduating from the Zoology BSc programme?
- Graduates can pursue roles such as a wildlife conservationist, ecologist, researcher, science communicator, environmental consultant, or laboratory technician. The programme also offers an optional work placement year for valuable experience.
Entry requirements
A LevelsAAB
IELTS6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component
Some academic departments may require a higher score for English language proficiency. Applicants who do not meet the English language requirements may receive a conditional offer, subject to achieving the required level before the programme starts. Students who haven't met the academic or English language requirements can explore pathways through the University of Sheffield International College, offering foundation and International Year One programmes.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Specific tuition fees and living cost estimates for international students are not provided on the program page. Please refer to the university's main fees and funding pages for detailed information.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the A Level requirements (AAB) and English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5 with 6.0 in each component, or equivalent).
2. Apply via UCASSubmit your application through the UCAS system. The UCAS code for Zoology BSc is C300.
3. Conditional OfferIf you meet the academic criteria but not the English language requirements, you may receive a conditional offer, requiring you to achieve the necessary English score before starting the course.
4. Consider PathwaysIf you do not meet the direct entry requirements, consider preparatory programmes offered by the University of Sheffield International College, such as the International Foundation Year or International Year One.
5. Prepare for StudiesOnce an offer is accepted and conditions are met, prepare for your September start date.
Scholarships
ESRC White Rose Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership scholarships—
Accreditation
The course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the Zoology BSc programme?
+
The typical A Level requirement is AAB. You must also meet the English language proficiency requirement of IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component, or an equivalent qualification.
How much does the Zoology BSc programme cost for international students?
+
Specific tuition fees and living cost estimates for international students are not provided on the program page. Please refer to the university's main fees and funding pages for detailed information.
How long does the Zoology BSc programme take to complete?
+
This is a three-year Bachelor of Science (BSc) programme.
What is the language of instruction for this programme?
+
The language of instruction for this programme is English. For entry, you typically need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
How do I apply for the Zoology BSc programme?
+
Applications are typically submitted through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). Ensure you check the academic and English language requirements and submit your application by the UCAS deadline, usually in January.
What career paths can I pursue after graduating from the Zoology BSc programme?
+
Graduates can pursue roles such as a wildlife conservationist, ecologist, researcher, science communicator, environmental consultant, or laboratory technician. The programme also offers an optional work placement year for valuable experience.