BSc (Hons) Zoology with Foundation Year Bachelor's degree at Keele University

This module introduces you to the vast diversity of vertebrate and invertebrate animals and takes a comparative approach to the study of their structure and function. This forms the underpinning knowledge of animal biology that later modules in your degree build upon. Data presentation and analysis and group working are vital employability skills developed on the module as you link practical work undertaken in the lab and field to theory content.

Embarking on the study of biology from a genes to ecosystems level requires knowledge and understanding of fundamental concepts in biology. From the structure and function of biological macromolecules, cellular organisation and division, foundations of genetics to evolutionary theory and the organisation of life. This module gives you the underpinning knowledge and skills you'll need as you start your exciting journey into the biological world. You will develop scientific report writing skills a

Since the time of Aristotle, people have sought to understand the great diversity of animals and place them into meaningful categories. This module helps you to understand how the vast diversity of animals is classified and systematically organised today - this is vital for anyone beginning the study of zoology. Explore how familiar classes such as the mammals are organised and delve into less well-known groups of vast taxa such as arthropods and molluscs. This module will train you in skills of

Commence an exhilarating journey into ecology, delving into organisms' habitats, interactions, and environmental dynamics. Learning about plants and organisms will give you an insight into the world around you. This foundational module introduces key ecological concepts, laying the groundwork for advanced studies in your degree programme. Engage in immersive fieldwork, enriching lectures, and hands-on workshops to deepen your understanding of the natural environment. Enhance your writing, fieldw

In this module you will develop a range of core practical laboratory skills, applying theoretical concepts from across your programme and deepening your understanding of the subject through hypothesis-driven practical investigation. Additional workshops support your development of wider academic skills, including effective study practice, data analysis and communication. Aspirational career talks from invited speakers, including former graduates, and further employability skills workshops will s

The safe and ethical study of biology in the field is a vital skill in much of the biosciences and essential for those seeking a career in ecology and conservation. This module takes you on a summer field course, part of which uses Keele's wonderful campus, to study in a range of terrestrial and marine aquatic habitats. In addition to developing vital surveying and species identification skills in groups, you will also collaborate on a field biology hypothesis-driven project, which is excellent

In this module we will delve into the study of animal behaviour. Through lectures, field trips, and labs you'll learn how animals behave in different environments, from zoos to wild settings and why they behave the way they do. This module will teach you how to ask questions about animal behaviour, formulate hypotheses, then test them by observing and analysing animal behaviour whilst using rigorous research methods. By module end, you'll possess vital research skills applicable to diverse anima

The module will provide you with powerful analytical and mapping skills that underpin research and applications in Geography, Environment, Zoology and other disciplines. In recent years mapping has undergone a revolution through the development of GIS combined with advances in imaging the earth through remote sensing technology, and this module will help you develop the practical skills required to capture, store, manage, manipulate, analyse and visualise spatial data. These skills are important

This module brings together skills of experimental design and data analysis which are a vital step in the process of scientific research. In this module you will explore the different forms of scientific experimental design that you may encounter in your final year experimental projects. The data analysis skills you will hone will be essential in your final year and onwards into postgraduate study or employment in a data-driven world.

On Animal Adaptations you will study physiological and behavioural adaptations of a range of vertebrate and invertebrate animals to challenges presented by various harsh environmental conditions. Key themes of the module are explored in theory and in lab practicals. You will further develop skills of data collection, analysis and presentation. You will also explore how to present technical scientific information linked to the module themes to different audiences.

Gain a deep understanding of the vital role nutrition plays in animal growth, production, and health. We will explore nutrient requirements, metabolism, and the impact of deficiencies across various animal models. They will also evaluate common animal feedstuffs and their composition. By the end of the module, you will be able to discuss the relationship between nutrition, health, and diet-related diseases, equipping them with essential knowledge for careers in animal health and production.

This module will expand your practical skills through enquiry-based, hypothesis-driven laboratory investigations applying key skills and competencies to more advanced molecular and analytical techniques. Through additional workshops, you will develop higher-level skills in the acquisition and analysis of information from online sources, including journal databases and generative AI. Further sessions will also support you in evaluating your career readiness with employability skills-focused works

Here you will study the biology of bacteria, viruses and parasites, considering a range of pathogenic organisms and the diseases they cause. You will explore approaches to treatment and management of disease, ranging from development of novel antimicrobials to vaccination strategies, and the use of select viruses and microorganisms as research tools. Key skills in literature analysis and communicating to different audiences will be developed through the produced content on a select module topic.

Explore the pressing question of a potential sixth mass extinction, where you will learn all about human impacts on our environment. Uncover the essence of biodiversity and its measurement, examining global threats to biodiversity through compelling case studies. Navigate endangered organisms and habitats deeply through in-depth analyses. Gain key employability skills, including data analysis using the IUCN Red List database and participation in journal clubs fostering communication, leadership,

This module explores how we can study and manipulate genetic material, from sequencing technologies to gene cloning and genetic engineering. You will learn how these techniques can be used to study the structure and function of single genes and proteins, design and engineer DNA molecules and produce novel gene products such as therapeutic drugs. Through tutorials and workshops, you will develop skills in introductory bioinformatic tools, whilst also considering some important ethical principles,

Advances in molecular biology, analysis and sharing of genomic data have important applications in the plant, ecological and conservation sciences. You will study how genetic and genomic tools, both in the lab and at the desktop, are being used to enhance our understanding of plant biology and ecological processes.

In a competitive job market, practical skills and understanding workplace dynamics are crucial. This module allows you to gain hands-on experience, enhance your employability skills, and provide valuable insights into the professional world. You will be supported via a range of activities to secure a role and can source your own placement or apply to university-sourced roles. This module has built-in flexibility on when and how you complete your placement around existing demands.