Undergraduate

Zoology

Zoology focuses on the diversity of animals and how they survive, thrive and persist.
Course Details Careers & further study Fees & Scholarships Admission requirements How to apply Contact us Enquire Apply

Careers and further study

This course opens up a world of future study pathways and career opportunities.

Career Pathways

Zoology graduates may have career opportunities in private sector companies (such as fisheries, aquaculture, resources sector), in government departments (for example, Environment, Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, State Fisheries), in public agencies (such as museums and zoos) and in environment and conservation research agencies (CSIRO), while others may join academic institutions.
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Career Pathways

Zoology graduates may have career opportunities in private sector companies (such as fisheries, aquaculture, resources sector), in government departments (for example, Environment, Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, State Fisheries), in public agencies (such as museums and zoos) and in environment and conservation research agencies (CSIRO), while others may join academic institutions.

Further Study

The course for Honours in Zoology is a blend of coursework and research designed to introduce you to the world of research on animals. You’ll be equipped with the skills and flexibility of outlook needed to deal with rapidly changing technologies and to lead to habits of critical thinking, problem solving, statistical analysis and effective science communication, which would serve in any leadership role. You'll be guided through each step of your research project.

The combination of formal study and practical experience offered by the course prepares you for entry into postgraduate academic research programs, and into workplaces including but not limited to environmental consultancy or local and national government research agencies. You’ll develop skills of logical and creative thinking and writing through exposure to a range of research projects via seminars, the guided formulation of a research proposal, and the iterative cycle of production–feedback–review–refinement involved in the writing of a research paper. Honours in Zoology can lead to many careers including ecologist/biologist, environmental impact assessor, scientific researcher, science education, flora or fauna officer, government policy writer and consultant, consultant for mining companies, science journalist, laboratory technician or field research officer.

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Further Study

The course for Honours in Zoology is a blend of coursework and research designed to introduce you to the world of research on animals. You’ll be equipped with the skills and flexibility of outlook needed to deal with rapidly changing technologies and to lead to habits of critical thinking, problem solving, statistical analysis and effective science communication, which would serve in any leadership role. You'll be guided through each step of your research project.

The combination of formal study and practical experience offered by the course prepares you for entry into postgraduate academic research programs, and into workplaces including but not limited to environmental consultancy or local and national government research agencies. You’ll develop skills of logical and creative thinking and writing through exposure to a range of research projects via seminars, the guided formulation of a research proposal, and the iterative cycle of production–feedback–review–refinement involved in the writing of a research paper. Honours in Zoology can lead to many careers including ecologist/biologist, environmental impact assessor, scientific researcher, science education, flora or fauna officer, government policy writer and consultant, consultant for mining companies, science journalist, laboratory technician or field research officer.

Richer student experiences

Student Exchange & Study Abroad

University of Vermont

Queen's University

University of Otago
Study abroad options

Student Exchange & Study Abroad

University of Vermont

UVM thinks big and inspires others to do the same. Its academic program combines faculty-student relationships most commonly found in a small liberal arts college with the resources of a major research institution. The university is home to 10,267 undergraduates and 1462 graduate students. Located in Burlington, Vermont, UVM's setting on the shores of Lake Champlain, between the Adirondack and the Green mountain ranges, gives a perspective of all that's possible.

Burlington, United States
North America

"Words can't explain how amazing exchange was. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It was extremely rewarding meeting so many new people who will be friends for life. Burlington is very picturesque and laidback. It is a great college town. Only having to pass made it a lot easier to travel and experience college life. If Vermont isn't your first choice, I recommend it because it was a truly incredible experience. " Ellen Buckley,Bachelor of Commerce – Accounting and Finance, 2016
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Queen's University

Queen's University is a community, 175 years of tradition, academic excellence, research, and beautiful waterfront campus made of limestone buildings and modern facilities. But more than anything Queen’s is people. We are researchers, scholars, artists, professors and students with an ambitious spirit who want to develop ideas that can make a difference in the world. People who imagine together what the future could be and work together to realise it. Queen's is one of Canada's oldest degree-granting institutions, and has influenced Canadian higher education since 1841 when it was established by Royal Charter of Queen Victoria.

Kingston, Canada
North America

"Kingston is an amazing university town. It is beautiful and sits right on a lake. The course content was really interesting and there was more interaction between lecturers and students. I found classes to be very engaging and at the same level or maybe slightly higher than UWA. My advice is to do absolutely everything. Take every new and different opportunity. It's the time of your life." Jaynie Carmichael, Bachelor of Science - Biomedical Science, 2013
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University of Otago

Founded in 1869, University of Otago is New Zealand's oldest university, with a long history of excellence in teaching and research. It is highly committed to providing students with a safe and exciting place to live while they study. Students bring energy and diversity to the city of Dunedin, and the University is at the heart of many of the city's activities.

Dunedin, New Zealand
Oceania

"Otago was an indescribable experience. I can't express how much fun I had in Dunedin. Now I'm back, I miss the place and the people more than ever. I'm motivated to travel and visit the people I met from all over the world now. I met no one that had a bad experience at Otago; only people that regretted they didn't do a full year or couldn't stay on forever. Do a full year if you can – you won't regret it!" Scott Gregory, Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Commerce, 2014
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Visit Global Studio for more details and to apply to study abroad.

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Fees and scholarships

Learn more about the fees that apply to you for this course. For fee type definitions and further assistance, see the Fee Calculator page. You can also search our database for scholarships that are relevant to you or this course

Domestic Student Fees

For Commonwealth-supported places, student contribution amounts are charged by unit, based on area of study. For a fee estimate, go to the Fee Calculator and select “I want to price my units”. Fees are subject to annual indexation. Refer to the Handbook to identify the units required. More information on how fees are calculated.

Fee calculator

Scholarships

Scholarships are available to students from a diverse range of backgrounds, including academic achievement, financial need, educational disadvantage, leadership and community service, artistic or sporting achievements, and being from a rural or remote area.

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Cost of living

There are a few things to consider before applying to study at university. One could be your cost of living. This can depend on factors such as lifestyle, accommodation, tuition fees, medical insurance, textbooks and more. For an indication of expenses and average costs, see our Cost of living page.

Cost of living

International Student Fees

Annual course fee

Onshore international students are charged an annual course fee, charged per credit point at a rate dependent on the course in which the student is enrolled. Annual course fees are calculated based on an annual study load. Check the handbook to confirm the annual study load for your course.

Find out more about international student tuition fees and visit the fee calculator for the relevant course fees.

Fees are subject to annual indexation.

Fee calculator

Scholarships

Scholarships are available to students from a diverse range of backgrounds, including academic achievement, financial need, educational disadvantage, leadership and community service, artistic or sporting achievements, and being from a rural or remote area.

Search Scholarships

Cost of living

There are a few things to consider before applying to study at university. One could be your cost of living. This can depend on factors such as lifestyle, accommodation, tuition fees, medical insurance, textbooks and more. For an indication of expenses and average costs, see our Cost of living page.

Cost of living

Admission requirements

The University of Western Australia welcomes applications from international and domestic school-leavers. If you’re interested in studying one of these majors, find out the admission details below. 

Admission requirements

For applicants with recent secondary education, information on admission criteria is available on our entry requirements page or on the UWA Handbook for course specific requirements and prerequisites.

Admission requirements

Mathematics requirement

This major requires a certain level of Mathematics. If you do not meet this level, you can take additional Mathematics units in your first year to satisfy this requirement.

WACE prerequisite: Mathematics Methods ATAR

Mathematics requirement

ADMISSION REQUIREMENT

English competency

English is the language of instruction and assessment at UWA and you will need to meet the English language requirements of the University to be eligible for a place.

Minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no band less than 6.0.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENT

English competency

How to apply

Apply through TISC

  1. Log in to the TISC website
    If you’re a Year 12 student studying a WACE course at a WA high school or a pathway program, you are already automatically registered with TISC.
  2. Select your preferences
    You can choose up to six preferences when you apply through TISC. You should list your preferences in order from your most desired course onwards; this way you’ll have plenty of options to get into UWA.
  3. Lodging your application
    You’re almost there! After answering a few questions, you’ll need to make a declaration about your application.
  4. Application processing fee
    Your TISC application is lodged once you’ve completed the payment. For more information on fees and payments, visit the TISC website.
     

Course details

The Zoology major will provide you with the opportunity to study animals and their habitats including Western Australia’s unique fauna. These habitats are diverse and range from deserts through to temporary wetlands and rainforests. Zoologists discover the solutions to the problems presented by these habitats.

About the course

This major will provide you with a sound knowledge and understanding of animal structure and function and the evolutionary processes that have engendered animal diversity.
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About the course

This major will provide you with a sound knowledge and understanding of animal structure and function and the evolutionary processes that have engendered animal diversity. Zoologists also study physiology, reproduction, behaviour, community ecology and molecular genetics. Zoology underpins society’s interest in conservation and marine science including major contributions to current research in fisheries and ecosystem management. It is envisaged that there will be up to two overnight field trips (cost of food and accommodation of up to $200 for around four nights to be paid by the student).
Zoology

Quick details

Status
  • Available
Locations
  • Perth (Crawley campus)
  • Albany (Regional campus)
Attendance
  • Full-time
  • Part-time
Delivery
  • On-campus
Starting dates
  • Semester 1, Semester 2
Weekly contact time
  • 15-30 hours per week
Level of study
  • Undergraduate
Course Code
  • MJD-ZOOLY
Full time/part time duration
  • 3 years (BSc), 4 years (BSc[Hons])
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Zoology

Quick details

Status
  • Available
Locations
  • Perth (Crawley campus)
  • Albany (Regional campus)
Attendance
  • Full-time
  • Part-time
Delivery
  • On-campus
Starting dates
  • Semester 1, Semester 2
Weekly contact time
  • 15-30 hours per week
Level of study
  • Undergraduate
Course Code
  • MJD-ZOOLY
Full time/part time duration
  • 3 years (BSc), 4 years (BSc[Hons])
Honours Available
  • Yes
Degrees course is available in
  • Bachelor of Science
  • Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours)
  • Bachelor of Science Integrated Professional
Ranked 1st in Australia and 31st in the world for Biological Sciences (gras 2025)

Course Structure

Our undergraduate degrees offer you a broad range of options allowing you to combine subjects in a way that matches your career goals and personal interests.

Popular combinations

Agricultural Science Agricultural Science Botany Botany Conservation Biology Conservation Biology

Course structure details

Level 1

Core

Take all units (24 points):

Bridging

Bridging units must be successfully completed within the first 48 points of study. Students who have not achieved a scaled mark of at least 50 in Mathematics Methods ATAR or equivalent or higher are required to complete MATH1721 or SCIE1500. Students who have not achieved a scaled mark of at least 50 in Mathematics Applications ATAR or equivalent or higher are required to complete MATH1720 and either MATH1721 or SCIE1500. Note: MATH1721 should be taken if also considering majors or minors that require it for progression to level 2 (e.g. Maths, Physics, Chemistry or Computer Science):
Level 2

Core

Take all units (12 points):

Option

Take unit(s) to the value of 12 points from this group:
Level 3

Core

Take all units (24 points):
Course structure details Other combinations

Tess Williams

Tess Williams
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Tess Williams

Tess Williams
I’ve always loved animals and learning about their role in the environment, so Zoology really intrigued me. And UWA is the only university in Perth to offer it as a major.

I really love the lectures and the labs; learning the content and then seeing the concepts applied to real-life examples in the lab. I also really like the flexibility of study opportunities here and the opportunity to study electives and broadening units.

After I graduate, my aim is to work as a zookeeper or a conservation officer at a wildlife park. 
 

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Your degree options

This major is offered as a degree-specific, or first, major for these degrees. It is also offered as a second major in our other bachelor's degrees.