MSc Human Resource Management (Top Up)
The MSc Human Resource Management (Top-Up) program at the University of Gloucestershire...
BSc (Hons) Zoology
Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Zoology program at the University of Gloucestershire provides a thorough exploration of animal form, function, adaptation, and evolution. Students will delve into the intricacies of animal physiology, examine animal behavior across diverse species, and develop the skills to conduct scientific research and surveys of animal populations. The course is known for its strong focus on practical and field learning, often featuring small class sizes to facilitate a more personalized and hands-on approach. Students have the flexibility to maintain a broad interest in zoology throughout their studies or to specialize in particular areas of interest.
Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide a solid foundation in core biological principles in the initial year, allowing for specialization in subsequent years. Typical modules may include 'Diversity and Evolution', 'Fundamentals of Ecology', 'Animal Physiology', 'Methods in Biology', and 'Ethics in Biosciences'. As the course progresses, students will likely engage with more advanced topics such as 'Animal Behaviour', 'Mammalian Reproduction', 'Anatomy & Biomechanics', and 'Parasitology'. Optional modules might include 'Biogeography', 'Marine Ecology', 'Wildlife Disease', 'Avian Biology', and 'Population and Community Ecology', allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career aspirations. Assessment is often entirely through coursework, which allows for a more holistic evaluation of students' skills and knowledge, mirroring the attributes sought by employers and postgraduate programs.
Research Focus: The program is delivered by lecturers who are not only dedicated educators but are also often actively involved in research, particularly in frontline conservation. This research focus is integrated into the curriculum, exposing students to cutting-edge research and encouraging them to develop their own research skills. The opportunity to undertake a 'Zoology Dissertation' in the final year allows students to conduct independent research on a topic of their choice, further enhancing their research capabilities.
Industry Engagement: The University of Gloucestershire emphasizes providing students with real-world experience. The program offers opportunities for short-term internships and, importantly for career readiness, a year-long placement option. These placements provide invaluable first-hand experience in a professional setting, allowing students to apply their academic knowledge, develop practical skills, and build a professional network. Past students have secured placements with a variety of organizations, including zoos, conservation groups, and wildlife rangers, and have participated in research projects related to wildlife conservation.
Global Perspective: The BSc (Hons) Zoology program aims to provide students with a global understanding of zoology. In addition to field training within the UK in the first year, students often have the exciting opportunity to participate in overseas field research or placements in subsequent years. These experiences can span diverse environments, such as the savannah of South Africa, the tropical rainforests of Borneo or Costa Rica, or the mountains of Switzerland, providing students with a unique and valuable global perspective on animal life and conservation. This international experience not only enriches their understanding but also makes them more competitive in a global job market.
Location
Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 16600
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 64.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Gloucestershire offers a range of scholarships designed to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are aimed at making education more accessible and affordable, allowing students to focus on their studies and enjoy their time in the UK without financial stress. The university provides several merit-based, need-based, and country-specific scholarships to help ease the cost of tuition fees for international students.
International Scholarships: The University of Gloucestershire offers International Scholarships for students coming from various countries across the globe. These scholarships typically range from £1,000 to £3,000 per year, based on academic achievement and the chosen course of study. The scholarship is automatically awarded to eligible students upon acceptance of their offer to study at the university. These awards are designed to make studying in the UK more affordable and are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Excellence Scholarships: For international students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, the University of Gloucestershire offers Excellence Scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to students who have achieved exceptional academic results in their previous studies. The Excellence Scholarship can be worth up to £3,000 and is designed to recognize and support high-achieving students who show great potential in their chosen field of study.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general international scholarships, the University of Gloucestershire offers country-specific scholarships to students from certain regions. These scholarships are tailored to students from specific countries, helping to promote international diversity at the university. The scholarships vary in amount, eligibility criteria, and application processes.
A BSc (Hons) Zoology degree from the University of Gloucestershire opens doors to a diverse range of career paths, drawing on the comprehensive knowledge and practical skills gained throughout the program. Graduates are well-equipped for roles that involve working directly with animals, contributing to conservation efforts, conducting scientific research, and applying their biological expertise in various fields. The program's emphasis on field learning, lab work, and optional placements enhances graduates' employability and prepares them for the demands of the professional world.
Zoologist: A direct application of the degree, zoologists study animals in their natural habitats or in captivity. They research animal behavior, physiology, genetics, and evolution, often contributing to conservation efforts and the management of animal populations. This role may involve fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and report writing.
Conservation Biologist/Officer: With a strong emphasis on conservation in the University of Gloucestershire's program, graduates can pursue careers in protecting endangered species and their habitats. This may involve conducting surveys, managing conservation projects, working with local communities, and developing conservation strategies for government agencies, NGOs, or charitable organizations.
Ecologist: Ecologists study the relationships between living organisms and their environment. Zoology graduates are well-prepared for this role, which can involve conducting ecological surveys, assessing the environmental impact of human activities, and providing advice on sustainable land management and conservation. They might work for environmental consultancies, government bodies, or research institutions.
Wildlife Rehabilitator/Animal Welfare Officer: For those passionate about animal welfare, a zoology degree provides a strong foundation for roles in animal rescue and rehabilitation centers. Wildlife rehabilitators care for injured or orphaned animals, with the goal of returning them to the wild. Animal Welfare Officers work to protect animals from cruelty and neglect, often for organizations like the RSPCA.
Zookeeper/Aquarist: While competitive, a zookeeper or aquarist role is a popular choice for zoology graduates. These professionals are responsible for the daily care, feeding, and welfare of animals in zoos, aquariums, or wildlife parks. They also play a role in educating the public about animals and conservation.
Research Scientist (Life Sciences): Zoology graduates with a strong interest in research can work as research scientists in various settings, including universities, research institutes, and pharmaceutical companies. They may conduct experiments, analyze data, publish research findings, and contribute to scientific advancements in areas like animal health, genetics, or drug development. Further postgraduate study (MSc, PhD) is often beneficial or required for senior research positions.
Laboratory Technician: The practical lab skills developed during the zoology degree are highly transferable to a laboratory technician role. These technicians provide essential support to scientists and researchers, assisting with experiments, preparing samples, and maintaining laboratory equipment in various fields, including medical research, veterinary science, or environmental analysis.
Environmental Consultant: Environmental consultants advise clients on a range of environmental issues, including the impact of development projects on wildlife. Zoology graduates can apply their ecological knowledge to assess habitats, conduct wildlife surveys, and develop mitigation strategies. This field offers the opportunity to work on a variety of projects for different clients.
Science Writer/Communicator: Graduates with strong communication skills can pursue careers as science writers or communicators. They translate complex scientific information into accessible language for the general public or for specialized audiences in journals, magazines, websites, or educational materials. A zoology background provides the subject matter expertise to specialize in topics related to animals and the environment.
Science Teacher/Lecturer: With further training, zoology graduates can become science teachers in schools or lecturers in higher education institutions. They can share their passion for the natural world and inspire the next generation of scientists and conservationists. A postgraduate teaching qualification (PGCE) is typically required for teaching in schools.
