Use of our Aquatic Research Facility, glasshouse, insectary, and specialist laboratories
Research-active lecturers in fields such as coral reef conservation, evolution of primate behaviour, and climate change
Course content aligns to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
Tailor to your career ambitions through a range of modules
This course was one of the first of its kind in the country to receive accreditation from the Royal Society of Biology - we also have accredited degree pathway status from the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management
Placements and internship opportunities with our partner organisations. This course can be studied with or without an Industrial Placement Year
This hands-on course, including fieldwork and placement opportunities, will give you the intellectual and practical skills needed to understand the complexities of the animal kingdom, such as behaviour, ecology, conservation and genetics.
Biology and Zoology - your questions answered
Programme Leader for Biology Dr David Elliott answers your frequently asked questions about Biology and Zoology.
We are at a decisive moment in our history. Human progress is disturbing the natural balance of our environment. This is despite global efforts from government officials and policy makers to promote coexistence between humanity and our ecosystems. We need leaders who are bold and innovative in their approach if we are to restore and protect for future generations.
Are you passionate about protecting endangered species? Safeguarding habitats? Enhancing the knowledge and understanding of animals in the wild and in captivity? If so, then this course is for you.
Our focus is on equipping you with strong intellectual, technical, research and personal skills. We will help you to build an impressive CV and meet the needs of employers. We have mapped the content of our courses to the priorities of global initiatives, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This ensures you graduate with the scientific skills and knowledge needed to transform the issues of today.
Our Zoology course focuses on animal biology. And we cover topics such as wildlife conservation, ecology and animal behaviour. You’ll also cover sciences that underpin zoology, including genetics, biochemistry and statistics.
Zoology is a practical subject, so you will learn in the laboratory, field and classroom. Whatever you are studying, we will encourage you to link with employers, from short-term work experience to a full year in industry.
You’ll join a community of staff and students dedicated to applying their passion, knowledge and skills to help safeguard the survival of Earth’s natural environments and animal populations.
Being inspired
Some of our Zoology and Biology students tell us about the moments that inspired them to study the course.
Top10for satisfaction with feedbackZoology subject area - The Guardian University Guide 2025
Expert teaching
You'll be working with lecturers and tutors who have a wealth of knowledge and experience. They are carrying out research designed to offer fresh perspectives on important issues. Their wide-ranging work includes research into:
Improving the resilience of coral reefs to climate change
The evolution of primates
Insect reproduction and behaviour
Animal ecology
Coral reef systems and megafauna
Dr Michael Sweet, Associate Professor in Aquatic Biology, is one of the lecturers you will work with on the course. Before coming to Derby, he travelled the world working on a variety of projects:
Biodiversity index surveys in the Philippines and Malaysia
Radio tracking Sumatran rhinos in Borneo
Being a game ranger in mainland Africa and Madagascar
Michael is now the manager of our Aquatic Research Facility and teaches on several of our undergraduate modules. He is also involved in a major research project looking at diseases that affect coral reefs.
We carry out research within our Environmental Sustainability Research Centre. We address local, national and global goals for sustainable development, environmental understanding and clean growth.
How we're helping corals survive
Coral reefs are dying off at an alarming rate. Our Aquatic Research Facility is carrying out work with organisations across the globe to make corals more resilient in the face of man-made afflictions.
Fieldwork is a vital element of this course. Every stage of your studies will be enriched with fieldwork opportunities. The cost of mandatory fieldwork is included in your course fee. Through our fieldwork programme, we have introduced students to a variety of survey techniques for a wide range of species, such as:
Studying animal interaction at Twycross Zoo
Conducting ecological projects in Mallorca
Undertaking scientific investigations in the Maldives (for students on our Tropical Marine Biology module)
Investigating plant adaptations at the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew
exploring Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK Burnaston, to survey wildlife in their nature conservation area
You’ll also have access to Cuckoos Tor, a site on the edge of the Peak District National Park and owned by the University of Derby that is dedicated to long-term research and ecological experiments. Current projects include restoration ecology, natural flood risk management, community engagement with biodiversity, and sustainable land management - and you’ll be able to get involved.
You'll also have opportunities to apply for work placements and paid internships. All of this means you'll be well placed to launch your career, either in a graduate job or in further study or research.
Field Biology
Our second-year students went to Mallorca for a week as part of their optional Field Biology module. They went on short excursions, explored plant diversity, searched for invertebrates, went on scenic hikes and located wild goats. And, all the time, surrounded by stunning island landscapes.
This course was one of the first of its kind in the country to receive accreditation from the Royal Society of Biology. This accolade carries significant weight within the sector. It is only granted after a rigorous independent assessment.
The Royal Society acts as a single unified voice for biology. It advises the government, influencing policy, advancing education and professional development. And it encourages public interest in the life sciences.
The Royal Society only accredits degrees that offer students a solid academic foundation in subject knowledge, technical abilities and transferable skills. This means that, when you graduate, you’ll meet the requirements for Associate Membership of the Society (AMSB). Following appropriate professional experience, you can then apply for full membership. This is recognised widely throughout the industry and by potential employers.
We also have accredited degree pathway status from the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM). CIEEM approval means this course offers you the knowledge and practical skills required by employers for a wide range of applied practitioner roles.
Kirk's passion for Zoology gained national exposure
BSc (Hons) Zoology graduate, Kirk Mason received his first taste of fame after a short video of his was featured on BBC’s popular nature show Springwatch.
You’ll benefit from excellent opportunities for work experience and internships. We have our partnerships with organisations such as Sea Life, Derby Museums and the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust. We encourage you to undertake work experience throughout your degree. This will give you real insights into zoology and related areas.
You could also get involved in voluntary work with zoology-related industries and the wider community. This could include helping to safeguard local nature sites and improving the region's green spaces.
We are currently working with Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and Derby City Council on rewilding Allestree Park. This is the UK’s largest rewilding space which has involved a community consultation to find out what local people want. Some of our students are already working on independent studies projects in the park, with one test-driving the citizen science protocols for monitoring the changes in the park as the rewilding continues.
We have also just won two associate Knowledge Transfer Partnership with Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, lasting two years, to predict the trajectory of rewilding ecosystems. This will enable you to learn about the remote sensing and modelling we use for this. It will also enable staff to further stretch their research impact in a complex and growing subject area, as well as providing the chance to apply cutting edge, technical research to commercial activities.
We have also been working for several years with Down to Earth Derby, on nature-based regeneration and connecting communities with nature and growing food. A major project we are working on at the moment, with the Eden Project, is a community garden on part of Sturgess Fields, a site owned by the University between Kedleston Road and Markeaton Street sites. The plan is to create a New Commons that will be managed with the community. There are lots of opportunities for you to work on here, both in creating and maintaining the site, undertaking ecological monitoring and getting involved in community education programmes.
Ben secures highly sought-after zoo internship
BSc (Hons) Zoology student, Ben Thornley’s dedication to studying and gaining work experience has paid off with an exceptional summer internship. He has successfully secured himself a paid Large Mammals Internship with Bristol Zoo Gardens.
You'll learn from a research-active teaching team. They are pursuing important studies into diverse topics including:
The evolution of animal mating strategies
Disease-causing agents in corals
Bioremediation of freshwater ecosystems (using living organisms, such as microbes and bacteria, to improve the environment)
The welfare of captive orangutans
The genetics and conservation of natterjack toads
Our staff publish influential papers and conduct research locally, nationally and globally.
Zoology Programme Leader Dr Maren Huck completed her postdoctoral research at the Owl Monkey Project in the Formosa province of northern Argentina. She worked with Professor Eduardo Fernandez-Duque (then University of Pennsylvania, now Yale University).
Owl monkeys are unusual. They are the only night-active true monkeys, and also belong to a handful of mammal species that are pair-living and genetically monogamous. And the male is the main carer for the infants.
Maren is still collaboration with Eduardo and other colleagues on the project. They continue to investigate the evolution of pair-living, monogamy, and male care, as well as other aspects of owl monkey behaviour. They do this using a database that spans more than 20 years of fieldwork. This even involved one of our Zoology students volunteering and collecting data for her final-year project on owl monkeys in Argentina.
An owl monkey in northern Argentina photographed by Dr Maren Huck as part of her research into their nocturnal and parental behaviour
Abbie secures her dream job at the Natural History Museum
It’s a Zoologist’s dream. Working at the Natural History Museum exploring climate change and biodiversity research. And that is BSc (Hons) Zoology graduate Abbie Herdman’s job.
The University of Derby has been awarded £5.8 million from the Office for Students (OfS) to develop a new technology enhanced Bioscience Superlab and Research Lab with an opening date in 2025.
Kedleston Road offers it all: study in our largest library, relax at Basecamp, train in real-world healthcare settings, and stay active in our state-of-the-art Sports Centre.
Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.
Undergraduate Open Days
The best way to find out if studying at Derby is right for you is to experience an Open Day. Get a feel for the city and campus, tour our first-class facilities and see where you could be living.
You’ll be taught through lectures and tutorials, supported by hands-on practicals and fieldwork. You could study rutting red deer, or spend a week completing a project in the Mediterranean. You’ll also conduct an independent research project to develop your analytical skills in an area of your choice.
Assessment
Assessment is varied and includes computer-based assessments, scientific posters and oral presentations, professional reports, essays, making short videos, fieldwork and laboratory reports, as well as traditional written examinations. Many assessments can be tailored to suit your own interests and career goals.
Work placements
We offer full support to you if you decide to do a work placement in year three, which we strongly recommend. Work placement allows you to apply in a working environment the skills and knowledge you have gained on your course. This will give you more desirability in the eyes of potential employers. There is also a vocational module so you can gain credits by doing work related to your degree.
Helping you reach your full potential
Our Personal Academic Tutoring programme supports your academic journey, helping you achieve your goals and unlock your potential.
At the University of Derby, every student is assigned a Personal Academic Tutor (PAT) from the very start of their degree journey. This dedicated tutor becomes a key figure in your academic life, offering guidance, support, and insight to help you make the most of your university experience. Whether it's through one-to-one meetings or more informal catch-ups, your PAT will work with you to explore your strengths, address any challenges, and help you achieve your full potential. This relationship is designed to ensure you're not just succeeding academically, but also growing as an individual, developing the skills and confidence you'll need for your future career.
Your PAT will provide tailored advice to support your academic journey, whether that's by discussing your work, helping you set goals, or exploring career options. These regular meetings give you the space to reflect on your progress, understand where improvements can be made, and build on your strengths. At Derby, we want you to feel both challenged and supported. Your PAT will encourage you to push your boundaries, think critically about your work, and develop a proactive approach to your studies.
But it's not just about coursework. Your PAT will also help you identify extra-curricular opportunities, whether that's joining clubs, gaining work experience, or developing new skills outside of your course. These experiences not only enhance your CV but also give you the confidence to tackle future challenges. In short, your Personal Academic Tutor will be there to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you leave university with more than just a degree — but with a wealth of experiences, skills, and the knowledge that you're ready for the next chapter of your life.
Who will teach you
Dr Maren Huck
Programme Leader
Dr Maren Huck
Dr Maren Huck is the Programme Leader for BSc (Hons) Zoology and also the subject lead for "with-Foundation" programmes in Environmental Sciences. Her teaching focuses on animal behavioural ecology and related topics.
At the University of Derby, we aim to attract the very best students to join us and to support their progression to university to ensure they reach their full potential and achieve their ambitions. We believe the very best students come from all backgrounds and we want to build a community that reflects our society.
What is a contextual offer?
Contextual offers are used by universities and colleges to take account of a student’s individual circumstances. Employing contextual offers at the University Derby will allow our admissions team to identify applicants with the greatest potential to succeed in higher education and be an exceptional Derby student. This makes the application process fairer and builds confidence in students about their ability to be part of our academic community.
We will use the information in an application form and may either reduce grade requirements or give extra consideration when deciding whether to give a contextual offer. We will also support these students through information, advice and guidance, outreach activities and on-campus visits before and during the application process.
What is the criteria?
Typical criteria may include one or more of the following:
Students who are care experienced
Students who are estranged from their families
Students who are refugees or asylum seekers
Students whose parents/carers are in the UK armed forces
*Please note students need to declare they meet one of these criteria on their application.
GCSE Maths and English Grade 4/Grade C (or above) or equivalent qualification
Access to HE
Pass Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 with a minimum of Distinction: 15, Merit: 24, Pass: 6. Must include passes in compulsory Level 3 subjects
English language requirements
IELTS: 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each skills area)
We're committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, excellent facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.
Included in your fees
All equipment and consumables needed for your experimental/ fieldwork are provided by the University. Consumables for the Independent Study, subject to costing approval by your Programme Leader
Free membership of the Royal Society of Biology for a year after graduation
Residential fieldtrips in compulsory modules, previous destinations have included Tenerife and Majorca. Mandatory day fieldtrips in optional modules: previous destinations have included Kew Gardens, Sea Life Centre and the Peak District
Students studying the three year course will receive free membership of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) during their studies until they graduate
Mandatory costs not included in your fees
If not already owned, appropriate footwear for fieldwork such as Wellington/Walking boots - approximate cost is between £10-£100
If not already owned, appropriate outdoor clothing such as a waterproof jacket and trousers - approximate cost is between £50-£100
Optional costs not included in your fees
Recommended textbooks - approximate cost is £60
Additional international fieldtrip costs for optional modules as follows: Tropical Marine Biology L6 (Maldives) - approximate cost is £2,000
Travel to work experience/placements - cost is dependent on your placement venue of choice
Our undergraduate and postgraduate course pages will show the intakes that are available and open to applications. It's best to apply early so you can secure your place and beat the rush.
Once we have received your application and supporting documents (such as qualifications or references), we will review it and contact you within 4 weeks to let you know if you have been successful or not.
Our aim is to support all students to have the best possible opportunities to succeed and so our application and enrolment deadlines are in place to ensure you stand the best chance of doing so.
Joining the programme later may harm your chances of success on your course. It is therefore vital that you take note of the dates and ensure you submit your completed application and subsequent enrolment in time.
Undergraduate and postgraduate taught deadlines
Please note some courses may have an earlier induction, teaching and enrolment deadline date.
If your course operates a gathered field or pooled admissions process there may be an earlier application date. Please check your individual course page for further details.
If you are in Year 13 and applying for a full-time undergraduate course (including our joint honours courses), we recommend that you apply through UCAS.
If you are applying to study part-time, or already have your qualifications, or wish to join at Year 2 or 3, you should apply directly to the University.
"Completing a research placement at Birmingham's National Sea Life Centre was an incredibly strong and positive addition to my studies at the University of Derby. It really helped develop my CV, enhanced my PhD applications and gave me a head start in my career pathway." Ben Mcilwaine, BSc (Hons) Zoology graduate
Our focus is on ensuring you develop strong intellectual, technical and personal skills to build an impressive CV and meet the needs of employers. With opportunities for internships, volunteering and placements, our hands-on approach to study will ensure you’re ready for the world of work.
Recent graduates have gone on to work in areas such as:
Zoos and wildlife parks
Wildlife trusts
RSPCA
Environment Agency
Veterinary practices
Conservation
Teaching
Scientific Civil Service
Conservation campaigns
Others have progressed to teaching and lecturing careers after completing postgraduate study, or have advanced to gain veterinary and medical qualifications
Through our Professional Development Package, you'll gain valuable skills, including:
Scientific writing and use of scientific software
Written and verbal communication
Research and statistical analysis
Data handling and analysis
Personal motivation, organisation and self-reflection
96% of UK graduates are in employment or further study.
Top 5 for employability. Uni Compare Annual Student Review Rankings 2025.
87% of UK graduates say their current activity is meaningful.
Getting you career ready
Your degree is only part of your story. We're here to help prepare you for life after university. We'll tailor your talents and help you build the tools that will set you apart when you are ready to look for your first graduate role.
Our staff have valuable and varied experiences in the workplace and beyond. And we have great links to industry. This means you'll have opportunities to apply your learning. You'll find work experience that's directly relevant to your studies, including placements and real projects set by businesses.
Our promise
We promise to provide an inclusive approach; supporting, advising and guiding you on your employability journey to success. We will listen to your needs and signpost opportunities for you to engage with up to three years after graduation.
If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.
Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.
Course updates
The information provided on this page is correct at the time of publication but course content, costs and other individual course details do change from time to time and are updated as often as possible, so please do check these pages again when making your final decision to apply for a course. Any updated course details will also be confirmed to you at application, enrolment and in your offer letter.
If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.
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