Animal Biology BSc (Hons)

The study of animal biology is becoming increasingly important to our understanding of significant aspects of the environment, agriculture and the wider economy.

The Animal Biology course is part of the Biological Sciences programme.

Animal Biology is an exciting subject to study. You will follow animal life from the functioning of the not-so-simple cell to the control and co-ordination of complex processes enabling animals to survive and reproduce.

In the first year the modules allow you to develop a comprehensive understanding of the key elements of animal biology. In Years 2 and 3 the subjects become more specialised and our modular scheme allows you to focus on the aspects of animal life which you find most interesting, ranging from animal behaviour to eco-physiology. A strong practical emphasis runs throughout the course, complementing a traditional approach to learning and giving you the chance to develop the practical skills which could be of great value in later employment.

In your final year you will undertake an Independent Study or Biosciences Research Project on a subject of your choice, having been well prepared for this by a Research Methods module in Year 2. Past studies have included topics such as a comparison of two methods of DNA extractions from faeces of the Western Lowland Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla spp.gorilla), the effectiveness of predator odours as rodent repellents, and the factors influencing the migration of the common toad.

Unless you are a Minor Honours student, in the final year you will also take a module that enables you to reflect on the skills that you have gained on the course and prepares you for your biological career after university.

View the Biology Programmes Overview.

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UCAS code

UCAS is the central organisation through which applications are processed for entry onto full-time undergraduate courses in Higher Education in the UK. For the latest information, check the UCAS website at http://www.ucas.com

Animal Biology BSc (Hons) D300 BSc/AB

Study options

It is also possible to study this degree in combination with another subject.

The combination subjects available are: Ecology and Physical Geography.

The University of Worcester’s degree combinations add breadth to your studies and enhance your employability.

Get in touch

Admissions Office
01905 855111
admissions@worc.ac.uk

Dr Rob Herbert, Curriculum Leader:
01905 855215
r.herbert@worc.ac.uk

240 UCAS tariff points if you have A2 Biology and A2 in another Science, e.g. Chemistry

260 UCAS tariff points if you have A2 Biology and A1 in another Science

270 UCAS tariff points if you haved A1 Biology and A2 in another Science

280 UCAS tariff points if you have A1 Biology

The University will consider each application on its individual merits and will recognise a range of qualifications not currently included in the Tariff, including Access courses, European Baccalaureate and pre-2002 qualifications such as GNVQ.

If your qualifications are not listed, please contact the Admissions Office for advice on 01905 855111 or email admissions@worc.ac.uk for advice.

Modules

Year 1
Biological Diversity
Cell Biology
Comparative Zoology

Year 2
Research Methods
Molecular Genetics
Animal Welfare & Ethics
Animals in their Environment
Animal Behaviour

Year 3
Integrated Studies in Biology
Behavioural Ecology
Conservation Genetics
Eco-physiology

Assessment

A wide range of assessment methods has been devised to test a range of student skills. Assessment types include seminar papers, tests, reports, presentations and examinations (including practical examinations).

Dr Rob Herbert

Head of Applied Sciences

“In addition to being intrinsically fascinating, the study of animal biology is becoming increasingly important to our understanding of significant aspects of the environment, agriculture and the wider economy.”

Academic department

Institute of Science & the Environment

“The Institute’s acclaimed research in areas such as river management, rural issues, forensic biology, nutrition and archaeology has a common thread: our belief that science should be centred around its impact on people.”
Professor John Newbury, Head of Institute

Employability

This course will prepare you for a number of different career paths including wildlife warden, health services, scientific research, teaching and education, as well as progression to higher degrees such as a PhD.