Zoology

An undergraduate degree in Zoology at the University of Oxford offers students an in-depth exploration of the animal kingdom, encompassing the structure, function, behavior, evolution, and ecology of diverse species. This programme provides a rigorous scientific education, combining theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory and fieldwork experiences. Students will investigate fundamental biological concepts, including genetics, physiology, and developmental biology, as well as specialized areas such as animal behavior, conservation, and biodiversity. The course is designed to develop analytical skills, critical thinking, and research techniques essential for understanding complex biological systems. Faculty members are leading experts in their fields, offering mentorship and opportunities for original research. The programme emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from ecology, evolutionary biology, genetics, and physiology to provide a comprehensive understanding of animal life. Students are encouraged to participate in field trips, laboratory experiments, and independent projects, fostering hands-on learning and scientific inquiry. The curriculum is flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests, with options to undertake a fourth-year research project leading to a Bachelor's thesis. Graduates of the Zoology degree program at Oxford are well-equipped for careers in research, conservation, environmental consultancy, education, and further study in biological sciences. The university’s vibrant academic community and state-of-the-art facilities provide an ideal environment for students passionate about understanding the natural world and making significant contributions to zoological sciences.

As a doctoral student at the Department of Zoology, your primary focus will be your research, which will usually be conducted within one or more of the existing research groups. In addition, you will be encouraged to make the most of the doctoral training and research methods provision available across the Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences Division.

Doctoral research projects can be based on fieldwork (sometimes in remote places), laboratory experiments, analysis of existing data sets, or mathematical theory, but in all cases must be original and rigorous, leading to publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

You will be part of a vibrant educational research community that includes an active set of doctoral student-led events, seminars and workshops. You will have the opportunity to present and discuss your work in progress with your supervisor, other faculty members and peers, informally day-to-day and by attending a variety of seminars and workshops in the department and at conferences elsewhere.

You will first be admitted as a Probationary Research Student (PRS) and at the end of your first year you will be able to apply for transfer to the status of DPhil candidate. Conferment of the title of DPhil is conditional on submission of a thesis and success in an oral (viva voce) examination in front of one Oxford-based and one external examiner.

MSc by Research in Zoology

In exceptional cases, the department also takes students who wish to study for a MSc by Research in Zoology, which typically takes two years. Since few students are accepted to this degree, there must be a strong academic case.

The minimum time in which a student can submit their final thesis for an MSc by Research is one year, and the maximum fee liability for an MSc by Research is two years, but the overall course length is three years.

The first step in applying is to contact a potential supervisor or supervisors to discuss potential projects. For further details and to apply to the MSc by Research, please contact Heather Green.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in subjects appropriate to the DPhil project.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 out of 4.0.

Admission to DPhil in Zoology does not normally require a master's level qualification.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

Evidence of genuine interest in biology and sometimes other relevant fields of research (eg mathematics, engineering, and statistics) will also be taken into consideration. This might be demonstrated by, for example, having undertaken independent field work or research, relevant vacation employment, or having already made research publications or presentations.

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Research proposal: One to two pages
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Zoology undergraduate program at the University of Oxford offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees for home students are set annually and are published by the university; as of the latest academic year, undergraduate tuition fees for UK students are approximately £9,250 per year. International students are generally charged higher fees, which vary depending on the course and are announced prior to each admissions cycle.

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider living costs, which can include accommodation, food, books, and personal expenses. The university provides an estimated living cost assessment, which for students studying in Oxford is approximately £12,000 to £15,000 annually. These costs can vary depending on accommodation preferences and personal lifestyle choices.

Oxford University offers a comprehensive range of financial aid and scholarship programs to help mitigate the financial burden. For UK students, the most prominent source of support is the UK government’s Student Finance scheme, which provides loans for tuition fees and maintenance. The university also administers a variety of bursaries and grants specifically for zoology students, including the Oxford Undergraduate Scholarships for students demonstrating exceptional academic merit or financial need.

International students are encouraged to apply for external scholarships and sponsored funding options, though internal university awards are limited. The Clarendon Fund is one of the most prestigious scholarships available at Oxford, offering full funding to outstanding graduate students, including those studying Zoology at the postgraduate level.

Furthermore, part-time work opportunities are available for students during term and vacation periods. The university’s employment service provides information about available roles, which can help students supplement their income. Students are also advised to explore external funding sources such as government scholarships, private trusts, and international fellowships suitable for their country of origin.

The university’s Student Finance Office provides detailed guidance on funding applications, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early to ensure their financial support arrangements are in place before the start of the academic year. Overall, while studying Zoology at Oxford entails significant costs, a wide array of funding opportunities and financial support services are designed to assist students in managing these expenses effectively.

The Bachelor of Arts in Zoology at the University of Oxford offers students an in-depth understanding of the biological principles governing animal life. The programme provides a comprehensive foundation in various aspects of zoology, including evolutionary biology, animal behaviour, ecology, physiology, and molecular biology. Students will explore the diversity of vertebrates and invertebrates, gaining insights into their structure, function, and adaptation mechanisms. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, scientific investigation skills, and a thorough understanding of current research in the field. Students participate in a combination of lectures, practical laboratory work, field trips, and tutorials, which are a hallmark of the Oxford teaching approach. This structure enables personalized learning experiences and close mentorship from leading academics.

The programme emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for careers in research, conservation, environmental consultancy, or further study. Through optional modules, students can tailor their learning towards specific interests such as marine biology, evolutionary genetics, or animal behaviour. The degree also includes opportunities for students to undertake a research project or dissertation, which develops their ability to design experiments, analyze data, and communicate scientific findings effectively.

Oxford’s strong links with biological research institutes and conservation organizations offer additional opportunities for internships, networking, and engaging with cutting-edge developments in zoology. The programme encourages students to critically evaluate ethical issues related to animal research and conservation efforts. Graduates of the programme have gone on to pursue careers in academia, environmental management, public policy, and the zoological industry, among others. The best candidates demonstrate curiosity about thenatural world, strong analytical abilities, and a commitment to scientific inquiry. Overall, the Zoology B.A. at Oxford provides a rigorous, interdisciplinary education that prepares students for meaningful contributions to understanding and preserving animal life across the globe.