Zoology with Herpetology BSc (Hons)

Year 1 The first year is a general year for all of our zoology related degrees, which will introduce students to several important aspects of modern biology. Students are required to take two compulsory lecture modules, one module in key skills and one practical module. Students can choose to take 30 credits of optional modules. In addition there are tutorials with individual members of staff. Organismal Diversity (20): The module will present an overview of basic classification, form and function of the major groups of living organisms. Ecology and Evolution (20): Ecology is about understanding the dynamic changes in individuals, populations, communities and ecosystems in relation to each other and the physical environment, and understanding their evolutionary processes. Biology Practical Module (20): Students will undertake a range of practicals from molecular and cell biology, through to animal function and ecology. Field work is included. The practicals will coincide with the appropriate subject area in the lecture modules. Research Skills (20): The module is aimed at developing a range of skills commonly used by natural scientists, including basic mathematical manipulation, data interpretation, and presentation, experimental design and statistical analysis, IT skills and effective use of the literature. Tutorials (degree specific) (10): Tutorials will be held by individual members of staff to groups of 6 7 students and involve discussions that are degree specific. Tutorials will develop communication skills. Optional modules: Choose 30 credits from: Cellular & Molecular Biology (20) Introduction to Microbiology (10) Comparative Zoology Year 2 In the second year you will extend and deepen your understanding of zoology by specialising in animal diversity, function and evolution. There are four compulsory modules incorporating lectures and practicals. The module called Bioscience Skills will focus on student directed learning and development. You can choose 40 credits of optional modules. You can also take part in overseas Field Trips including herpetological studies in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona, USA. Compulsory modules: Bioscience Skills (20) Evolution & Genetics (20) Vertebrate Biology (20) Invertebrate Biology (20) Optional modules: Choose 40 credits from: Animal Behaviour (20) Principles of Conservation (20) Field Course (20) Conservation Practice (20) Year 3 The third year includes a dissertation project that may be experimental or take the form of a literature review, supervised by a member of staff on a subject to suit your interests. Students choose to take 40 credits of optional modules. Compulsory Modules: Herpetology (20) Systematics and Diversity (20) Animal Survival Strategies (20) Dissertation (20) Optional Modules: Choose 40 credits from: Bio Enterprise and Employability (20) Advances in Behaviour (20) Molecular Ecology and Evolution (20) Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation (20) Practical Development Biology (20) Life in Wetlands (20) Animal Design (20) Further information on each module can be found on our website. We are continuously incorporating student feedback and novel developments into our degrees, which can result in changes to the module content in all years.