Zoology BSc

Year of entry

2026 course information

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UCAS code
C300
Start date
September 2027
Delivery type
On campus
Duration
3 Years (Full time)
Work placements
Optional
Study abroad
Optional
Typical A-level offer
AAB (specific subject requirements)
Typical Access to Leeds offer
BBB
Full entry requirements

Course overview

Roe deer female

Zoology is the scientific study of the animal kingdom. It encompasses the molecular building blocks of life up to the way that animals behave and interact with their environment. Zoologists understand the diversity of animal forms and the ways that they function.

After graduating from this course, you’ll have developed a range of specialist knowledge and transferable skills, equipping you to work in a variety of fields, including nature conservation, animal production or scientific research. Throughout the course, you’ll develop teamwork, independent working, problem-solving and communication skills, all of which are in demand by employers.

You’ll study everything from animal cell biology, physiology and behaviour, to how animals are shaped by evolutionary forces and how animal populations and communities function. With opportunities for intensive field study every year of the programme, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to build on your practical lab and experimental design skills. In your final year, you’ll complete your own fully independent research project, with dedicated supervision from a leading expert in the area of your choice.

This three-year BSc course can also be converted into an integrated Masters (MBiol) with an optional additional year of specialist training, to study advanced research topics and to carry out your own extended research project.

Why study at Leeds

  • Study with one of the largest centres for biological sciences research in the UK, with access to cutting‑edge facilities, industry links and specialist research opportunities.
  • Put theory into practice by undertaking fieldwork activities within the UK and South Africa. You’ll advance your research skills and gain hands-on experience highly valued by employers in industry or in postgraduate education.
  • Optional non-residential field course in urban ecology, where you’ll explore biodiversity in Leeds and develop ideas on how to make cities more ecologically sustainable.
  • Choose optional industrial work placements, study abroad or combined study and work abroad, where you'll gain fresh perspectives and develop skills valued by employers.
  • Flexible options to transfer onto other suitable and related degrees at the end of year 1, as many programmes within our School share a common first year.

Accreditation

This course offers the option to apply for a year in industry as part of your course. If you are successful in your application and undertake this work placement, you'll graduate with the BSc Zoology (Industrial) variant, which is accredited by The Royal Society of Biology.

Advanced Degree Accreditation by the Society recognises academic excellence in the biosciences and highlights degrees that educate the research and development leaders and innovators of the future. The Advanced Accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from the programme meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including gaining a substantial period of research experience..

This accreditation is also applicable to the following course variants: MBiol Zoology; MBiol Zoology (Industrial); MBiol Zoology (International).

Course details and modules

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Most courses consist of compulsory and optional modules. There may be some optional modules omitted below. This is because they are currently being refreshed to make sure students have the best possible experience. Before you enter each year, full details of all modules for that year will be provided.

For more information and a list of typical modules available on this course, please read BSc Zoology course catalogue entry.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

Living Planet(20 credits)

You’ll be provided with an overview of the evolution and diversity of life, the key features that define each group and the role of those taxa in ecological processes. Each group of organisms will be linked to a major global challenge, including food security, disease, and wildlife conservation, to demonstrate how fundamental science informs important societal issues.

Laboratory and Field Skills (20 credits)

You’ll develop core scientific, practical, and field research skills that you’ll use throughout your degree programme. A broad range of standard laboratory skills will be developed, including the essential fundamentals of good laboratory practice, routine calculations, and analytical methods. Fieldwork will address processes at the whole-organism and population level within the broader area of ecology.

Unlocking Scientific Success (20 credits)

You'll develop core research, scientific and study skills that will underpin your degree. You will gain an in-depth understanding of the scientific process, the formulation and testing of hypotheses, and making best use of scientific literature. Hands-on computer practical sessions will help you develop an appreciation of scientific data and the key skills needed to solve problems.

Introduction to Genetics(10 credits)

You’ll be provided with essential foundational knowledge in genetics, exploring the different meanings of ‘genetics’ and how this concept has changed over time. More importantly, you will explore what genetics means for us as organisms. To what extent do genes determine our inheritance? And how do our genes make us the distinct and unique organisms we are?

Introduction to Cell Biology (10 credits)

You'll develop a basic understanding of cell biology and the underlying biochemistry, which underpin the fundamental processes of life. You can apply this knowledge in later optional studies in applied biology or plant biology.

Coastal and Uplands Habitats Field Course (10 credits)

You’ll take a combination of field studies at various sites, followed by laboratory-based analysis to develop skills in sampling and monitoring field populations and identification of diverse organisms. Projects will involve developing hypotheses related to their ecology and testing these using appropriate analytical techniques.

Optional modules

Candidates will be required to study 30 credits from the following optional modules:

Using Biology to Feed the World (10 credits)

This module examines how knowledge derived from biological research is applied to and exploited in agriculture. You’ll study food production from animals, plants and microorganisms, the different systems of production, the use of biotechnology for crop improvement and the opportunities and challenges facing a changing world.

Biology of the Mind(10 credits)

You’ll be introduced to the foundational neuroscience concepts of structure and function, and how systems level function emerges. These concepts will be explained using examples from the human nervous system in health and disease, and from the experimental approaches used in neuroscience research.

The Microbial World (10 credits)

The module introduces you to the diversity of microbial life and viruses on this planet, with an emphasis on how we interact with microbes that are responsible for infections as well as those that do not normally cause disease. You’ll explore how microorganisms interact with each other and how they influence more complex organisms, and how fungi, bacteria and viruses are safely manipulated.

Vertebrate Evolution (10 credits)

You’ll cover the major features of vertebrate evolution from the origin of the group around 430 million years ago to their present-day diversity, taking in many of the well-known (e.g. dinosaurs and pterosaurs) and less well-known extinct forms. You’ll also examine how geological processes have influenced the story of vertebrate animals.

Introduction to Immunology(10 credits)

You’ll review fundamental immune mechanisms with a particular emphasis on human immunology and its relationship to health and disease. You'll discover how we protect ourselves from infection through our immune defences and learn about the role of different types of leukocytes and antibodies.

Discovery modules(10 credits)

As well as the compulsory and optional modules that make up your programme of study, you may be able to choose something different to your main subject as a Discovery module.

Year 2

Compulsory modules

Marine Zoology Field Course (20 credits)

You’ll study animal marine biology, including marine, intertidal and coastal organisms. The module is normally held at Dale Fort, Pembrokeshire, where you’ll be exposed to a range of familiar and unfamiliar habitats and species.

Animal Physiology(20 credits)

You’ll focus on the normal functioning of a living organism and the study of the various systems used to regulate the internal environment. This module will introduce you to some of the core topics in animal physiology, such as endocrinology, reproduction, growth and development, digestive physiology, muscle, and environmental physiology.

Developing Scientific Excellence (20 credits)

This module further develops the core research and scientific skills that were developed at level 1, helping you to prepare for your third-year research projects and beyond.

Evolution, Adaptation and Behaviour(20 credits)

The module allows you to explore how evolution unifies biology and the fascinating diversity of life on Earth. You’ll examine evolutionary processes to develop an understanding of adaptation to environments, across evolutionary time and in our rapidly changing world. The module takes animal behaviour as a specific field in which evolution and adaptation can be explored.

Optional modules

Candidates will be required to study 40 credits from the following optional modules:

Population, Community and Conservation Ecology (20 credits)

You’ll study the factors that control the distribution and abundance of different populations and be introduced to the application of these principles to population management. You’ll understand the interactions between species and their environment, the properties of ecological communities, and the application of these principles to key challenges in ecology.

Wildlife Ecology and Management (20 credits)

You’ll develop an interdisciplinary understanding of a range of evidence and techniques needed to resolve conflicts between people and wildlife. By applying knowledge of wildlife population ecology, understanding of people’s beliefs and motivations, and methods for influencing decision-making, you’ll become equipped to address real-world problems involving wild animals.

Urban Ecology and Conservation Field Course (20 credits)

You’ll learn about the value of biodiversity in an urban context, with a focus on the biodiversity and sustainability on campus and the University’s reduced carbon emissions commitments. Working in small groups, you’ll collect biodiversity data across a range of urban sites and produce a biodiversity action plan to support and improve biodiversity on the campus.

Human Populations and Disease (10 credits)

In this module, you will learn about human populations and their relationships with the environment. Human evolution will be explored, including the underlying principles that lead to genetic differences between individuals and populations. Epidemiological aspects cover the analysis of infectious diseases and cancer. In addition, genetic diseases are investigated in the context of genome organisation, mutation and gene expression, including clinical approaches to diagnosis of cytogenetic abnormalities. This course offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing you to tackle real-world challenges in the fields of epidemiology and human genetics.

Parasitology (10 credits)

You’ll be provided with an introduction to parasitology with an emphasis on those that cause diseases of medical and veterinary importance. The main content will be delivered through the use of specific examples, including single-celled microparasites, such as malaria, Toxoplasma, Trypanosoma, Leishmania, and Giardia, and macroparasites, such as Schistosoma, Ascaris, geohelminths, and the filarial nematodes.

Bioinformatics for Biologists (10 credits)

You’ll be introduced to the basics of bioinformatics and the application of bioinformatics to many biological questions. The module shows how genomic data is stored and accessed to learn about any characterised gene or protein and how it links to resources on research. The approaches to modern phylogenetics are introduced and how bioinformatics is applied to drug discovery.

Discovery modules (10 credits)

As well as the compulsory and optional modules that make up your programme of study, you may be able to choose something different to your main subject as a Discovery module.

Year 3

Compulsory modules

Advanced Topics in Behaviour: from sex to death (20 credits)

You’ll study how the behaviour of animals is adapted to their natural environment. The course will focus on animal behaviour from sex to death, covering topics such as: sexual selection, sperm competition, parental care and cannibalism. You’ll explore how parasites from malaria to cuckoos can manipulate the behaviour of their hosts.

Biology Research Projects (40 credits)

You'll conduct an independent research project that you choose from a wide range of topics. Projects can be laboratory-based, field research, data analysis or literature-based investigations. You’ll receive dedicated supervision from a leading expert in the area of your choice.

Optional modules

Candidates will be required to study 20 credits from the following optional modules:

Advanced Topics in Human Genetics and Epigenetics (20 credits)

You’ll gain a comprehensive insight into human genetics with an emphasis on disease. Specific topics discussed include telomere biology, epigenetics, DNA damage/repair, DNA recombination and genome integrity/stability.

Advanced Topics in Ecology (20 credits)

You’ll cover recent developments in ecological research. The module consists of subunits, taught by a researcher intimately involved in the research developments being discussed. It will provide you not only with a detailed understanding of key recent developments in ecology, but also with insights into the process of scientific research.

Candidates may choose to study up to 40 credits from the following optional modules:

Level 3 Field Course (South Africa) (20 credits)

This module offers you the opportunity to gain ecological experience in a diverse semi-arid area of Southern Africa. Large game is currently being reintroduced to this area, the result of which has been the creation of multiple adjacent sites, each containing varying proportions of original African fauna. The intense two-week programme (in September before entry into year 3) comprises a short project, lectures by staff and local experts covering geology, vegetation, birds, and game management. Additional costs are required to cover flights and accommodation.

Sustainable Innovations in Animal Science (20 credits)

In this module, you’ll explore innovations in nutritional technologies. Production of animals to meet increasing demand for animal protein is a significant contributor to environmental problems and addressing these challenges requires new technologies and innovations if production is to be sustainable.

Advanced Topics in Evolution (20 credits)

You’ll participate in group studies of advanced, research-led topics in evolution. Topics may include emerging infectious diseases, variation and speciation, and symbiosis, providing a range of approaches to evolution, from molecular to ecological.

Advanced Topics in Conservation Science (20 credits)

You’ll explore contemporary and globally important topics in conservation, including biodiversity loss, urban biodiversity, the illegal wildlife trade, and climate change. You’ll also investigate current theories in conservation science, along with the mechanisms underlying global patterns in the distribution of animals and plants, with a particular focus on the responses of species to climate change

Candidates may choose to study up to 30 credits from the following optional modules:

Evolution and Population Genetics (10 credits)

You'll cover the nature of biological species and the roles of natural selection and drift in evolution and the attempts made and the problems encountered in interpreting genetic data to infer the history of populations (including human beings).

Animal Developmental Biology (10 credits)

How does a single cell (a fertilised egg) give rise to the diversity of complex tissues, forms and functions seen in adult animals? In this module you’ll explore this question by examining critical developmental processes (including regeneration in adults) in diverse animals.

Social Biology(10 credits)

This module explores the current research in the area of social biology. You’ll study aspects of social insect biology encompassing ecology, ecosystem services and evolutionary theory. This will be supported by lectures on other social animals, such as current research on social networks in vertebrates.

Discovery modules (Up to 10 credits)

Candidates may choose to study 10 credits of Discovery modules as part of the optional module selection.

Discovery modules 

Throughout your degree, you'll benefit from a range of opportunities to expand your intellectual horizons outside or within your subject area.

This course gives you the opportunity to choose from a range of Discovery modules. They’re a great way to tailor your study around your interests or career aspirations and help you stand out from the crowd when you graduate. Find out more about Discovery modules on our Broadening webpages.

Learning and teaching

Our teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials and practicals (laboratory or field settings, depending on your degree). We take a student-centred approach to learning and so our teaching is designed to enable student engagement through active learning approaches that include creative problem-solving, teamwork activities and mini-projects. In this way, you're able to apply the theoretical knowledge learnt to practical, real-life contexts. We put a high value on practical teaching and so a core part of your teaching will focus on developing hands-on, practical, and associated research skills.

Independent study is an important part of university learning, and you'll be expected to undertake private study. We'll support you in becoming independent learners through our teaching approaches and through regular meetings with your personal tutor, who is there to advise you academically.

We use a range of digital tools to enhance your learning. Through our Minerva learning management system, you'll be able to access our extensive library of online materials, some of which are designed specifically to support preparation prior to attending classroom sessions and discussing content with peers and teachers. In the classroom, educators use a variety of interactive digital tools to help you learn through discussion and debate. Laboratory practicals are accompanied by detailed online preparation guides and the use of electronic laboratory notebooks to ensure you get the most out of your time and develop workplace skills. Field courses study the ecology, genetics, behaviour, development and adaptations of organisms in their natural environments.

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

We use a variety of assessment methods to help you develop a broad range of skills. These include practical work, data handling and problem-solving exercises, multiple-choice tests, group work, online and face-to-face discussion groups, computer-based simulations, essays, posters and oral presentations. We support students in their assessment journey through the provision of practice questions, sessions on how to complete assessment questions and feedback to support learning.

Facilities

Your degree will be based in the Faculty of Biological Sciences, one of the largest centres for biological sciences research in the UK and home to cutting-edge research facilities. The course makes use of the National Pig Centre, the UK’s largest and most advanced facility for research into pig nutrition, behaviour, welfare, health, and production systems.

You’ll also have access to field research stations in the UK and overseas to help you learn about ecology and behaviour in natural surroundings. Leeds is just a short distance from the Yorkshire Dales, the Peak District and has easy access to the Lake District, North York Moors and the spectacular Yorkshire coast, providing plenty of opportunities to work and learn outdoors.

Wellbeing and support

The University of Leeds features an extensive network of excellent services dedicated to you and your wellbeing. We're here to help throughout your time in higher education, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed. For more information on the different facets of support you will have access to, please see our Wellbeing and Support page.

Ecology and Wildlife Conservation online course

Get a taste of Biology BSc with our exceptional online course, Ecology and Wildlife Conservation. Designed for anyone with an interest in the subject matter, this short course is particularly useful for high school students who would like to study Biology, Zoology, or Ecology and Conservation at university level.

With this two-week programme, you'll discover how conservation biologists and the study of ecosystems can help protect wildlife and conserve the natural world. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the impact of wind farms on populations of seabirds and investigate highly diverse ecosystems such as coral reefs.

Are you ready to take your first steps towards protecting our world’s incredible biodiversity?

Find out more about our Ecology and Wildlife Conservation course.

Explore our full list of online courses.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAB

Including Biology and preferably another science or science-related subject. If Biology is the only science subject, then an A grade is required. Critical Thinking and General Studies are excluded.

We accept the following:

  • Science: Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics.
  • Science-related: Computing, Environmental Science, Food Science, Geography, Geology, PE, Psychology, Statistics.

Applicants taking a science A-level (in England) will be required to achieve a pass in the practical element in addition to the standard A-level grade requirement.

When an applicant is taking any of the following:

  • Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
  • Cambridge International Project Qualification (Cambridge IPQ)
  • Core Maths (if A-level Maths or Further Maths isn't studied as a full A-level)
  • AS Maths (if A-level Maths or Further Maths isn't studied as a full A-level)
  • Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate

It will be considered alongside A-levels and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you are taking A-levels, this would be a one grade drop from the standard offer. For example, an A in one of the above qualifications with ABB at A-level (BSc applicants).

GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English. The Faculty of Biological Sciences will accept Level 2 Functional Skills as equivalent to C/4 in GCSE English.

Alternative qualification

Access to HE Diploma

Pass 60 credits overall with 45 credits at Level 3, graded at D39M6P0, including distinctions in biology and mathematics or chemistry.

Accept Access courses in Applied Science and Science. Will also consider (depending on subject content):

  • biochemical sciences
  • biological and environmental science
  • biological and health science
  • biological sciences
  • biosciences
  • combined sciences
  • environmental science
  • life and biological science
  • life science
  • medical and health science professions
  • natural sciences
  • physical & natural sciences
  • veterinary science and zoology

BTEC

BTEC Extended Diploma entry requirements: DDM plus A/B in A-level Biology. If the BTEC subject is Applied Science, applicants can have A-level Mathematics, Chemistry or Physics instead. (Other BTEC subjects may be considered alongside a science A-level).

BTEC Diploma entry requirements: DD plus A/B in A-level Biology. If the BTEC subject is Applied Science, applicants can have A-level Mathematics, Chemistry or Physics instead. (Other BTEC subjects may be considered alongside a science A-level).

Applicants with BTEC Extended Certificate/Subsidiary Diploma qualifications must normally have A/B in at least two A-levels and at least one of these should be Biology.

Cambridge Pre-U

D3/D3/M1 including Biology and preferably another science or science-related subject. If Biology is the only science subject, then a D3 grade will be required. Global Perspectives excluded.

When an applicant is taking Global Perspectives, this can be considered alongside Pre-U subjects and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. This would be D3/M1/M1 and grade D3 in Global Perspectives.

International Baccalaureate

31 overall with 6,6,5 at Higher Level, including Biology and preferably another science or science-related subject. If Biology is the only science at Higher Level, a 6 will be required.

Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)

H2, H2, H2, H2, H3, and H3, including H2 in Biology and preferably another science or science-related subject at Higher Level.

Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers

Five Highers AABBB, with AB in two Advanced Highers

Including Biology and preferably another science or science-related subject. General Studies and Critical Thinking are excluded.

  • Science subjects include: Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics.
  • Science-related subjects include: Computing, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, PE, Psychology, Science in Society, Statistics, Food Science and Use of Maths.

Scottish Higher: Scottish Highers not accepted on their own.

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

If you live in a neighbourhood where there is low participation in higher education, we may be able to give priority to your application.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds offer

Specific A Level subjects required – see entry requirement section above.

GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.

Access to Leeds: Pass

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.


Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: £10,050

International: To be confirmed

The amount of tuition fees you pay is based on whether you are classified as a home (UK) or international student. Find out how we assess your fee status.   

Tuition fees for UK students 
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2026/27 are £9,790 and £10,050 for students starting in 2027/28.  

Subsequent years 
The UK government sets the maximum tuition fee caps that universities can charge UK students. This means your tuition fee in future academic years will reflect any changes set by the government.   

From 2028/29 onwards, tuition fees are likely to increase annually, at least in line with inflation, and may rise further if the government increases the fee cap.   

Tuition fees for international students 
The international fee applies for each year of full-time study and will remain the same for the duration of your course.    

Read more about tuition fees.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Scholarships are also available to help fund your degree. Find out more and check your eligibility below:

Applying

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

We typically receive a high number of applications for this course. To ensure we treat all applications fairly, we may put your application on hold until after the UCAS deadline before making a final decision. All applications received before the UCAS deadline are guaranteed equal consideration.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions guidance

Visit our admissions guidance page for more information about applying to undergraduate courses in the Faculty of Biological Sciences.

Application process

The Faculty of Biological Sciences may consider applications submitted after this date. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed by UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.

Alternative Entry Scheme for mature applicants

As per the information detailed in the corresponding section of the University of Leeds Admissions Policy, the Faculty of Biological Sciences will consider prospective students via the Alternative Entry Scheme run by the Lifelong Learning Centre, where appropriate applicants will be referred to the Lifelong Learning Centre, who will advise the applicant further.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2026

This course is taught by

Faculty of Biological Sciences

Contact us

Faculty of Biological Sciences Undergraduate Admissions Office

Email: fbsadmissions@leeds.ac.uk

Career opportunities

We aim to equip you with the best possible skills for a variety of future careers. All of our degrees have a strong emphasis on practical-based teaching, small group teaching, online learning and problem solving.

Throughout the degree, you’ll gain a wide range of transferable skills which are highly valued by employers. Supported by the faculty student opportunity team, Leeds for Life scheme and your academic and personal tutor, you’ll be ideally placed to focus on your personal development and make the most of your time at university.

Your Zoology degree will prepare you for a wide range of roles in many sectors, such as conservation, environment, agricultural and pharma, both office and field-based. The skills and knowledge you’ll develop will be relevant to zoology-related careers as well as broader opportunities after graduation.

Typical graduate careers include:

  • academic researcher
  • ecologist
  • environmental consultant
  • environmental education officer
  • science writer
  • nature conservation officer.

Examples of recent graduate destinations include:

  • PhD study
  • assistant ecologist
  • wildlife programme assistant
  • sustainability strategist
  • associate medical writer.

Top 10 most targeted for 10+ years

by the UK’s leading employers

The Graduate Market 2026, High Fliers Research

Careers support

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one. We have a wide range of careers resources –including our award-winning Employability Team, who are in contact with many employers around the country and advertise placements and jobs. They are also on hand to provide guidance and support, ensuring you are prepared to take your next steps after graduation and get you where you want to be.

  • Employability events – we run a full range of events, including careers fairs in specialist areas and across broader industries, all with employers who are actively recruiting for roles.
  • MyCareer system – on your course and after you graduate, you’ll have access to a dedicated careers portal where you can book appointments with our team, get information on careers and see job vacancies and upcoming events.
  • Qualified careers consultants – gain guidance, support and information to help you choose a career path. You’ll have access to 1-2-1 meetings and events to learn how to find employers to target, write your CV and cover letter, research before interviews and brush up on your interview skills.
  • Opportunities at Leeds – there are plenty of exciting opportunities offered by our Leeds University Union, including volunteering and over 300 clubs and societies to get involved in.

We have a dedicated student opportunity team in the Faculty of Biological Sciences who work closely with the University’s Careers Centre.

We offer numerous additional opportunities, volunteering and placements. This includes our annual student-alumni networking event, where graduates are invited back to talk about their work and network with our students, and our STEM Careers Fair. The fair is an amazing opportunity for you to meet bioscience employers, such as AstraZeneca, Labcorp, GSK, Nuffield, and NHS Ecological consultancies. You'll be able to speak to alumni, attend workshops and more.

Study abroad and work placements

Study abroad

On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

If you choose to undertake a study abroad option, you'll spend the third year of your course studying abroad. This will extend your studies by 12 months.

Work placements

This programme gives you the opportunity to undertake an industrial placement year as part of the course.

It’s important to note, work placements are not guaranteed. The job market is competitive – and there may be competition for the placement you want. You’ll have to apply the same way you would for any job post, with your CV and, if successful, attend an interview with the organisation.

Our Employability Team will help you every step of the way. They run a number of placement sessions to discuss opportunities and support you with CV writing and interview preparations. Plus, they’ll be there to answer any questions you may have and offer guidance throughout the process, too.

Benefits of a work placement year:

  • 100+ organisations to choose from, both in the UK and overseas
  • Build industry contacts within your chosen field
  • Our close industry links mean you’ll be in direct contact with potential employers
  • Advance your experience and skills by putting the course teachings into practice
  • Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in this industry
  • Improve your employability

Find out more about Industrial placements.

Combined study and working abroad

Our new module allows you to combine both a study abroad and an industrial work placement into one additional year of study. Over the year, you'll study for a semester at one of our partner universities and complete an industrial work placement for six months abroad or in the UK.

Find out more about Combined study and work abroad.

Field courses

Our undergraduate zoology programme offers an exciting opportunity for students to immerse themselves in diverse ecosystems through specialised field courses. Compulsory residential field courses examining biodiversity in UK land habitats and marine zoology can be supplemented by field courses in sustainable urban ecology and African ecology in South Africa. These field courses will provide key experience in field research techniques, species identification, and conservation strategies while enhancing your data analysis and scientific communication skills.