UNIVERSITY OF ST ANDREWS · UNITED KINGDOM
Zoology BSc (Hons) - Direct Entry to Second Year
Bachelor's · Taught in en · UCAS C300
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
7.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 3 yearsDuration (Direct Entry)
- September 2026Start Date
- BSc (Hons)Degree Level
- C300UCAS Code
- Opportunity to study abroad in Year 2International Experience
- Direct entry for academically strong studentsEntry Pathway
This programme allows exceptional students to enter directly into the second year of the BSc (Hons) Zoology degree, completing the course in three years instead of the standard four. This accelerated pathway is designed for students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement in their prior studies, such as Advanced Highers, A-Levels, or the International Baccalaureate. By entering at the second-year level, you will bypass the first-year modules and proceed directly to the core curriculum of the Zoology BSc. This intensive approach ensures you cover all necessary advanced topics within an accelerated timeframe. Students on this direct entry route will also have opportunities to participate in study abroad programmes during their second year, enriching their academic and personal development. The School of Biology offers this direct entry option to highly qualified candidates, providing a challenging and rewarding experience for those ready to advance quickly in their zoological studies. For further information or to discuss your eligibility, please contact the School of Biology.
Curriculum
Students entering directly into the second year will take all required modules for the Zoology BSc programme from the second year onwards, bypassing first-year content.
- Year 2
- Second Year Zoology Modules
- Year 3
- Final Year Zoology Modules
Careers
Graduates from the School of Biology are equipped with valuable skills in data collection and analysis, problem-solving, teamwork, planning, and communication, making them attractive to a wide range of employers. The Careers Centre offers support and resources to help students develop their employability.
- Academic researcher
- Consultant ecologist
- Marine mammal scientist
- Museum curator
- School teacher
- Journalist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Direct Entry to Second Year Zoology BSc (Hons)?
- For direct entry into the second year, you need SQA Advanced Highers AB including Biology and another science, GCE A-Levels AAA including Biology and another science, or an IB Diploma with 38 points including HL6 in Biology and HL6 in another science. You also need an IELTS overall score of 7.0.
- How long does the Direct Entry to Second Year Zoology BSc (Hons) programme take to complete?
- This accelerated pathway allows you to complete the BSc (Hons) Zoology degree in three years, as you enter directly into the second year.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Tuition fees are charged annually and may change. A one-off digital documentation registration fee of £20 applies, but specific international tuition fees are not specified.
- When is the application deadline for the programme?
- The application deadline is not specified, but generally it is in January for UK/international applications via UCAS for a September entry.
- What are the career prospects after graduating from the Zoology BSc (Hons) programme?
- Graduates gain skills in data collection, analysis, problem-solving, and communication, opening doors to roles like academic researcher, ecologist, or journalist. Further study for Masters and PhD programmes is also a common pathway.
- Are there opportunities for international experience during the programme?
- Yes, students on this direct entry route have the opportunity to participate in study abroad programmes during their second year.
Entry requirements
SQA Advanced HighersAB, including Biology (or Human Biology) and one other science from Chemistry, Mathematics, or Physics.
SQA HighersAAAB
GCE A-LevelsAAA, including Biology and one other science from Chemistry, Mathematics, or Physics.
IB Diploma38 points overall, with HL6 in Biology and HL6 in one of Chemistry, Mathematics, or Physics.
IELTSOverall score of 7.0
Applicants must also meet general entry requirements, including SQA National 5 (Grade B) in English and one relevant science subject, or GCSE (Grade 5) in English Language/Literature and one relevant science subject. Biology (or Human Biology) must have been studied at Advanced Higher, A-Level, or equivalent. Preference is given to candidates with strong science qualifications beyond the minimum requirements.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified
Tuition (home)Not specified
LivingNot specified
Tuition fees are charged annually and may change. A one-off digital documentation registration fee of £20 applies.
How to apply
1. Register InterestYou can register your interest with the University to receive updates and information about the application process.
2. Check Entry RequirementsVerify that your qualifications (e.g., A-Levels, IB, Advanced Highers) meet the specific requirements for direct entry into the second year of Zoology, including the necessary Biology and science subjects, and the minimum IELTS score.
3. Submit Application via UCASApplications for undergraduate courses in the UK are typically made through UCAS. Use the provided UCAS code (C300) for Zoology.
4. Prepare Supporting DocumentsGather all required documents, which may include academic transcripts, certificates, and English language test results.
5. Attend Interviews/Assessments (if applicable)While not explicitly mentioned for this programme, some courses may require interviews or further assessments.
6. Receive Offer and AcceptIf your application is successful, you will receive an offer from the University. Follow the instructions to accept the offer.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Direct Entry to Second Year Zoology BSc (Hons)?
+
For direct entry into the second year, you need SQA Advanced Highers AB including Biology and another science, GCE A-Levels AAA including Biology and another science, or an IB Diploma with 38 points including HL6 in Biology and HL6 in another science. You also need an IELTS overall score of 7.0.
How long does the Direct Entry to Second Year Zoology BSc (Hons) programme take to complete?
+
This accelerated pathway allows you to complete the BSc (Hons) Zoology degree in three years, as you enter directly into the second year.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Tuition fees are charged annually and may change. A one-off digital documentation registration fee of £20 applies, but specific international tuition fees are not specified.
When is the application deadline for the programme?
+
The application deadline is not specified, but generally it is in January for UK/international applications via UCAS for a September entry.
What are the career prospects after graduating from the Zoology BSc (Hons) programme?
+
Graduates gain skills in data collection, analysis, problem-solving, and communication, opening doors to roles like academic researcher, ecologist, or journalist. Further study for Masters and PhD programmes is also a common pathway.
Are there opportunities for international experience during the programme?
+
Yes, students on this direct entry route have the opportunity to participate in study abroad programmes during their second year.