Zoology with a Modern Language: The University of Manchester

Course description

Zoology, the study of animal life, aims to understand the behaviour, structure and evolution of animals, using a wide range of approaches, from genes, to molecular and cellular biology, through physiological processes and anatomy, to whole animals, populations and their ecology.

Field studies form an important part of their teaching and you will attend four field courses (two in the first year, two in the second year), including the possibility of visiting South Africa and Ecuador. The third year of this four year programme is the language placement year, during which students complete a project in a research institution in a country that speaks their chosen language. It is possible to study this programme with French, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, German, Mandarin Chinese or Japanese.

Career opportunities

Zoology graduates from the University of Manchester go into a variety of careers. About half stay in the life sciences and related disciplines, choosing either to study further research or taught courses such as a Masters or PhD, which could lead onto a career in bioscience, or medicine/dentistry degrees. A significant number go on to complete a science teaching qualification, such as a secondary science PGCE. Graduates from 'with a modern language' programmes are extremely desirable to employers who require significant relevant work experience. In the growing field of international bioscience research collaborations, graduates with a good command of a foreign language are at a distinct advantage.

Many zoology students go on to work in conservation projects around the world. A number of 2005's graduates are now involved in such programmes in the UK, South Africa, Madagascar and Malaysian Borneo. Other popular career choices include working in zoos and museums.

Entry requirements

• English language: Either GCSE grade C, IELTS 6.5 (with not less than 6.5 in any component) or an equivalent qualification.
• A level: Grades AAB-BBB. This should include:
  • 1 of Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Maths and
  • 1 of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Geography, Psychology, Environmental Studies or PE.
• Unit grade information: The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit grade information which, like all other available information, will inform the consideration of applications.
• GCSE: Minimum grade C in English Language and Mathematics.  An A* in a language at GCSE is required.
• Key Skills qualification: The University warmly welcomes applications from students studying the Key Skills qualification.
• International Baccalaureate:
  • 35-32 points overall including 5 or 6 points in Biology and Chemistry at Higher level.
  • For degrees with French, German and Spanish 5 or 6 points in the language must be achieved at Higher level.
  • For other languages 5 points is required in a language at standard level.