About Zoology, BSc - at University of Nottingham
Animals form the majority of species. How they function, their genetics, behaviour and evolution together with their interactions with each other and their environments are of central importance in modern biology.
The life sciences have moved to the forefront of science and technology in the 21st century, and Zoology has become a dynamic and increasingly important subject as advances in molecular genetics and DNA technologies provide fascinating and important new insights into many aspects of animal life.
The scope of animal biology has expanded dramatically during recent years. This course is enriched by cutting edge research across a range of disciplines, from animal behaviour and parasitology to neurobiology and toxicology.
It offers modules ranging from conservation to immunobiology. As a result, students can experience many disciplines in which new technologies are making important contributions - for example, in managing biodiversity sympathetically and improving human welfare. Many of our graduates find work in zoologically related disciplines, but collectively, they enter an extremely wide range of careers.
This course is provided by the School of Biology, together with the School of Biosciences and the School of Clinical Laboratory Sciences. It spans three years, with the possibility of spending a year on industrial placement between Years 2 and 3.
What skills will you gain on the course?By studying zoology you may also acquire skills in biochemistry, genetics, immunology, physiology and cell biology. Also important is your ability to understand how organisms function and you may choose to target your skills in areas such as behaviour, marine and freshwater biology, ecology, population dynamics, parasitology and epidemiology. From an understanding of animal life a zoology graduate can demonstrate a variety of skills including experimental techniques, the ability to analyse information critically and solve problems. Your degree course includes an extended research project, based in an existing research group, enabling you to develop project management, teamworking, organisational skills, and demonstrate the ability to understand complex scientific data and information.
Zoology also demands numeracy and literacy skills, which can be transferred to a wide range of career openings. Practical skills like statistical and computing techniques will equip zoologists for a career where scientific knowledge may not be required. You will also have used communication skills, both written and oral, in report writing and giving presentations. Finally, it is important to recognise that some employers may be more interested in your personal skills and abilities than your degree subject. It is therefore important to consider what you have got to offer in addition to subject knowledge.
Who employs Zoology graduates?It is now well established that zoology graduates are qualified for a variety of careers in both biological fields, and careers where specific scientific knowledge may not be required, but where transferable skills can be applied. In recent years, over a half of all zoology graduates entered full-time employment in the UK. Those entering full-time employment were spread evenly between scientific/technical, management and administration, and clerical and secretarial occupations. Sales and marketing, and education also account for significant areas of employment.
Potential employers include: universities, schools, hospitals and public health laboratories; industry, eg pharmaceutical, agrochemical, food, drink and water; environmental organisations. A considerable proportion of zoologists go into financial companies - chartered accountants, banks and insurance firms. Increasing numbers enter information technology companies and the retail sector.
Careers open to all graduates About 60% of vacancies advertised for graduates in the UK don't ask for specific degree subjects. Possession of a degree is taken as evidence of intellectual ability. What is more important to the potential employer is the range of transferable skills and experience you can demonstrate. Work experience and relevant postgraduate qualifications may also help make you more attractive.
