Integrated Foundation - Bachelor of Science (Honours) - Zoology

The Zoology programme at the University of Derby offers extensive fieldwork opportunities in the UK and overseas, with the costs of mandatory trips included in the course fees. Students benefit from access to specialist facilities, including an Aquatic Research Facility, glasshouse, insectary, and dedicated laboratories that support practical learning and research. The course structure allows students to tailor their studies to align with individual career ambitions through a wide range of optional modules.

Teaching is delivered by research-active lecturers whose current work includes coral reef conservation, the evolution of primate behaviour, and climate change studies, ensuring that learning is informed by real-world scientific research. The programme content is aligned with global priorities such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, emphasising sustainability and environmental responsibility.

The course was among the first in the UK to receive accreditation from the Royal Society of Biology and also holds accredited degree pathway status with the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, reflecting its academic quality and professional relevance. Students gain valuable practical experience through placements and internships with partner organisations. The programme can be studied with or without an Industrial Placement Year.

This hands-on degree, incorporating fieldwork and placement opportunities, equips students with the intellectual knowledge and practical skills required to understand key areas of zoology, including animal behaviour, ecology, conservation, and genetics.

Including a foundation year as part of the four-year study programme provides students with a strong academic and professional head start. The foundation year enables students to build essential skills, strengthen subject knowledge, and develop confidence, supported by extensive guidance from expert staff, before progressing to stage one of their honours degree. It is also particularly beneficial for those planning a career change, as it helps them gain an understanding of new subject areas.

Degrees with a foundation year are delivered as a continuous programme, meaning that students do not need to reapply once the first year has been successfully completed.