Zoology BSc (Hons)

What you will study

You’ll study modules such as:

Stage one

Induction Module (Zero credits)- This module provides you with an introduction to studying at the University of Derby. It is designed to provide an online environment in which you can become proficient in the skills required for HE study

Ecology - You will be introduced to the interactions between organisms and their environment. This module includes both tutorials and fieldwork

Evolution of Life - You will be introduced to the process of biological evolution and to the variety of living plants and animals. You'll focus on the first groups of organisms to evolve, prior to the colonisation of land

Genetics - You will gain a broad introduction to, and basic understanding of, the key concepts in classical and molecular genetics

Human Biology - You will explore the relationship between structure and function in the human body, and study the inter-dependence of life support systems and the interaction of the biological state with the environment

Invasion of the Land - You will focus on groups of organisms that have adapted to life on land, including terrestrial fungi, lower and higher plants, insects, spiders and amphibians, reptiles and mammals

Chemistry of Life - You will be introduced to the basic concepts of chemistry and how molecules are used in the functioning of the cell unit and its biochemical processes

Stage two

Research Methods - You will learn about planning and conducting research including analysis of data using statistics. This helps to prepare you for your own independent studies research carried out at Stage 3

Invertebrates - You will examine the range of form and function among the major invertebrate groups and the possible evolutionary relationships between them. The module will also explore life-history strategies and invertebrate communities (in plankton, leaf-litter and freshwater)

Vertebrate Biology - This module examines the range of forms of vertebrates and considers the evolutionary relationships within the group. It considers evidence from morphology, anatomy and behaviour to support the evolutionary hypotheses

Independent Research and Professional Development (Zero credits) - This module will prepare you for your Independent Studies research project undertaken at level 6. It will also address your current professional development with a focus on increasing awareness of graduate skill and career pathways

Optional modules:

Biological Basis of Animal Behaviour - You will explore the study of animal behaviour including physiological mechanisms and evolutionary function. There will also be a field trip to a zoo

Field Biology - You will look at terrestrial, aquatic or marine environments, where you will build on the ecological and biological concepts that you are learning during your second year. There is a subsidised European fieldtrip, currently to Mallorca, but there is also a Derby-based option

Human Physiology and Disease - You will develop a broad-based understanding of human diseases within the context of the normal physiological mechanisms that underlie some key body systems and will enhance knowledge of anatomy and physiology

Human Reproduction - You will cover a range of topics in the field of human reproduction, including developmental genetics, infertility, sexually transmitted diseases and sex determination

Microbiology - You will learn about microbial structure and function, and how this relates to the harmful and beneficial effects of microbes. An appreciation of microbial diversity will be developed, through exploring microbial roles in a range of settings such as environment, biotechnology and health

Rainforests, Deserts and Oceans - You will look at the interactions of organisms within biomes, and review issues associated with the sustainable exploitation of different biomes. This module includes a fieldtrip

Molecular Biology - You will develop an understanding of the molecular basis of fundamental biological and forensic processes, such as transcription and translation. You will be introduced to the current techniques and approaches in molecular biology applied in a forensic and evolutionary context

Industrial Placement Year (optional)

This course offers an ‘Industrial Placement Year’ giving you the opportunity to enhance your practical skills by putting theory into practice, network in your industry and stand-out in the graduate job market. The placement year takes place in your third year, once completed, you would return to University to complete your final year of studies.

• Applied Professional Practice
• Contemporary Issues in Professional Practice

Stage three

Independent Studies in Conservation, Biology and Ecosystems - You will undertake an independent piece of work of your choosing (subject to approval). This module represents an opportunity to exercise initiative, creative thinking, and organisational skills, and is a continuation of personal skill development initiated at Levels 4 and 5

Optional modules:

Applied Entomology - This module focuses on insects in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. You will explore physiology, lifecycles, behaviour and classification and look at how insects are used in four core areas of applied entomology; veterinary and medical entomology, agricultural entomology, environmental entomology and forensic entomology

Behavioural Ecology - You will focus on two of the main topics in this field: sexual selection and the evolution of altruistic behaviour. By introducing students to current areas of research and controversy in behavioural ecology, it is hoped that they will develop an appreciation of the nature of research in this area

Habitat Management - Ever increasing pressures are being placed on the natural environment whilst at the same time there is a necessity to maintain global biodiversity. It will only be possible to achieve both in a crowded world by carefully managing selected areas for their wildlife. Such management, if carried out scientifically, has the potential not only to maintain or enhance biodiversity but to restore it

Oncology and Immunology - Subjects covered will include the genetics of cancer biology, carcinogenesis and epidemiology, virology and mechanisms of antibiotic resistance. The teaching team will include experts from medicine and research, and careers in these fields will be emphasised

Science Communication - Effective communication of scientific information to a wide audience is vital social, economic and political tool for society. You will explore the spectrum of delivery methods in modern society including newspapers, museums, TV and the internet. You will discover the challenges of ineffective communication through a series of case studies

Vocational Module (Work Placement) - The student has freedom to select an appropriate host organisation to undertake a placement within a company, voluntary body or public establishment. The project should be selected so as to generate benefit to the host organisation. An integral part of the student experience is the compilation of a report based on deep reflection of personal experiences acquired during the placement

Wildlife Conservation - Biodiversity loss is seen by governments as one of the most important concerns facing the continued healthy survival of human populations in an increasingly crowded world. This module critically examines methods used to create the conditions under which wildlife can continue to exist in natural environments alongside human societies

Ecological Consultancy - You will examine key elements and skills required to start a career in ecology. You will be introduced to a series of survey techniques including phase 1 habitat surveys and survey techniques for a range of species and taxonomic groups. This content will be complemented by site assessment and report writing skills designed to ensure that learners can meet the exacting requirements of a professional report

Tropical Marine Biology - You will gain a broad understanding of coral reef ecology covering both theoretical and practical aspects. This module includes fieldwork where you will see one of the most biodiverse habitats in the world and understand how the coral reefs in particular are being effected by climate change. Please note that there is an additional cost element due to the field work involved

The Human Genome - We take a tour around the human genome; only 1.5% of which encodes for protein-coding genes. You will develop your understanding of the molecular evolution of DNA sequences, bioinformatics and genomics. You will learn how the human genome can be used and applied to answer questions ranging from human evolution to forensic biology

Advanced Methods in Zoology - This module draws on the expertise of members of staff and trains students in various areas of research, addressing skills that are rarely taught within zoology degrees. Indicative example topics that may be included: advanced statistics using programme R, an introduction to GIS, in particular home-range analysis and habitat selection using the same software programme R, and imaging methods – including the use of our Scanning Electron Microscope

Student Initiated Module