University subject profile: zoology

What you’ll learn
If you are an animal lover, climate change warrior or sustainability advocate, zoology is the subject for you. Primarily, it is about the study of animals, how they evolve and behave, their physiology and their place in natural ecosystems. But zoologists are increasingly valued for the understanding they bring to the conservation of these ecosystems as well as individual animal species. The subject is growing in popularity among students, who see the importance of understanding animals and their place in the world, and the way in which the subject integrates many aspects of modern bioscience. You’ll be studying a broad range of animal groups, both dead and alive, from social insects to reptiles, mammals and dinosaurs.

How you’ll learn
Degrees are taught by lectures and seminars, with practical and field work. Field trips to study animal behaviour and ecology are important in many courses. At the University of Sussex, these trips include Ecuador and Zambia to visit sites run in association with members of the department.

Entry requirements
Typically, A-levels in biology and geography or another science, along with a good maths GCSE.

What job can you get?
Many go on to work in conservation and rewilding. There is a wide range of careers, including professional biologists, laboratory officers, environmental consultants and microbiologists working for employers such as the Environment Agency, Natural England, the British Ecological Society, wildlife trusts, and conservation agencies. Many students go on to obtain MSc and PhDs before entering permanent roles. Others use their quantitative skills to pursue careers outside of zoology, such as in data science and software development.