MSc Human Resource Management (Top Up)
The MSc Human Resource Management (Top-Up) program at the University of Gloucestershire...
BSc (Hons) Zoology (With Sandwich Year)
Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The University of Gloucestershire offers a dynamic and hands-on BSc (Hons) Zoology (With Sandwich Year) program designed for individuals passionate about the animal kingdom. This four-year degree, including a dedicated sandwich year for professional experience, delves into the fascinating world of animals, from their fundamental biology to their interactions within the environment. The program has garnered high student satisfaction, with the University's biology courses consistently ranking highly in the UK for student experience and career prospects. The course provides a strong foundation in the core principles of zoology, with the flexibility for students to explore specialist areas after their first year, potentially choosing to focus on either a 'whole animal' approach or a more lab and experimental 'bits of animals' pathway.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BSc (Hons) Zoology (With Sandwich Year) program at the University of Gloucestershire is comprehensive, covering a broad range of topics essential for a modern zoologist. Core modules typically include 'Diversity and Evolution,' exploring the vastness of the animal kingdom and the processes that have shaped it, 'Fundamentals of Ecology,' examining the intricate relationships between organisms and their environments, and 'Animal Physiology,' delving into the internal workings of animal bodies. Students will also develop crucial research skills through modules like 'Methods in Biology' and 'Field Research Training,' which often includes exciting field trips both within the UK and internationally, potentially spanning diverse ecosystems in South Africa, Borneo, or Switzerland. Further modules explore topics such as 'Ethics in Biosciences,' 'Animal Behaviour,' and in later years, specialized areas like 'Parasitology' and 'Evolution and Behaviour.' A significant component of the final year is the 'Zoology Dissertation,' allowing students to undertake an independent research project.
Research Focus: The Zoology program at the University of Gloucestershire is delivered by a team of research-active lecturers with diverse interests, providing students with insights into current advancements in the field. Their expertise often lies in areas such as animal behaviour, ornithology, entomology, and applied zoology. This research-informed teaching ensures that the curriculum is up-to-date and relevant to the latest developments in zoological science. The opportunity to undertake a dissertation in the final year allows students to engage directly with research, potentially working alongside their lecturers on ongoing projects, further enhancing their research skills and contributing to the body of zoological knowledge.
Industry Engagement: A key feature of the BSc (Hons) Zoology (With Sandwich Year) is the integrated sandwich year. This third year of the program is dedicated to gaining professional experience in a relevant field. The University of Gloucestershire has strong links with animal and wildlife organizations, providing excellent work placement opportunities. Students have the chance to apply their academic learning in real-world settings, which can significantly enhance their career prospects upon graduation. Past students have secured placements with zoos, conservation groups, and wildlife rangers, gaining invaluable practical skills and networking with potential employers. Beyond the sandwich year, the program emphasizes practical and field learning throughout, with opportunities for shorter-term internships and field placements.
Global Perspective: The program instills a global perspective in its students through a combination of curriculum content and international field opportunities. The 'Diversity and Evolution' module, for instance, explores the global distribution of animal life and the factors influencing it. The program's emphasis on field research extends beyond the UK, offering the potential for overseas field trips to locations such as the savannahs of South Africa, the rainforests of Borneo, or the mountains of Switzerland. These experiences provide students with a firsthand understanding of zoological challenges and research in different ecosystems and cultural contexts, preparing them for a career in a globalized field of zoology and conservation.
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.
Graduates of the University of Gloucestershire's BSc (Hons) Zoology (With Sandwich Year) program are well-equipped for a diverse range of careers, thanks to the program's strong theoretical foundation, practical focus, and integrated work placement. The "sandwich year" provides invaluable real-world experience, making graduates more competitive in the job market.
Zoologist/Research Scientist: Many graduates pursue careers in research, working in universities, research institutions, or governmental agencies. This can involve studying animal behavior, physiology, genetics, or ecology, contributing to a deeper understanding of the animal kingdom. The research focus within the University of Gloucestershire's program, culminating in a dissertation, provides a solid foundation for this path.
Wildlife Conservation Officer: With a growing need for conservation efforts, zoology graduates can work for conservation organizations, managing and protecting wildlife populations and their habitats. This can involve field surveys, habitat restoration, and community engagement. The program's global perspective and potential for international field trips are particularly beneficial for this career.
Ecological Consultant: Ecological consultants are hired by businesses and organizations to assess the environmental impact of development projects. Zoology graduates can conduct ecological surveys, provide advice on mitigation strategies, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. The practical skills gained in field research and data analysis within the course are highly relevant.
Animal Keeper/Welfare Officer: For those passionate about direct animal care, working in zoos, aquariums, or wildlife parks is a rewarding option. Animal keepers are responsible for the daily care of animals, while welfare officers focus on ensuring high standards of animal well-being. The sandwich year, potentially in a zoo setting, can provide direct experience for this career.
Environmental Educator: Sharing knowledge about the natural world is crucial for conservation. Zoology graduates can work as environmental educators in schools, museums, or visitor centers, developing and delivering educational programs about animals and the environment. The program's focus on communicating scientific information effectively prepares graduates for this role.
Wildlife Journalist/Science Communicator: Graduates with strong communication skills can pursue careers in wildlife journalism, writing articles, creating documentaries, or managing social media for conservation organizations. They can also work as science communicators, translating complex scientific research for the public.
Veterinary Support Roles: While not a direct path to becoming a veterinarian, a zoology degree can lead to roles in veterinary support, such as veterinary nurse or research assistant in a veterinary setting. The animal physiology and anatomy components of the curriculum provide relevant knowledge.
Government Agencies: Government bodies, such as environmental agencies or departments of natural resources, employ zoology graduates for roles in wildlife management, policy development, and research.
Academic Research/Lecturing: Graduates with a strong academic record may choose to pursue postgraduate studies (Masters or PhD) and eventually work in academia as researchers or lecturers, contributing to the next generation of zoologists. The research-active faculty at the University of Gloucestershire can inspire students to pursue this path.
Biomedical Science Support: The foundational biological knowledge gained in a zoology degree, particularly in the 'bits of animals' pathway, can be transferable to support roles in biomedical science, such as working as a research technician in a lab.
