Key facts
Domestic students course information.
Guaranteed ATAR: 70.00
Entry is based on recent secondary (ATAR), higher education (GPA), VET study, or work experience.
Entry is based on Australian Year 12 equivalence. English language requirements must also be met.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- 069341J
Start Dates and Campus | Trimester 1 – February 2025 | Trimester 2 – June 2025 | Trimester 3 – October 2025 |
---|---|---|---|
Online | Offered | Offered | Offered |
Armidale Campus | Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
Sydney Campus | Not Offered | Not Offered | Not Offered |
Online | Offered | Offered | Offered |
Armidale Campus | Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
Sydney Campus | Not Offered | Not Offered | Not Offered |
Course information
Download course brochureZoology examines how animals of all kinds — from microscopic parasites to blue whales, and from tiny finches to dinosaurs — who live (or lived) in every type of habitat on our planet. Through hands-on laboratory and fieldwork focused on the study of animal life, UNE's Bachelor of Zoology will equip you with the skills to think and act like a researcher in this specialist brand of biology.
UNE offers the only zoology-specific degree in Australia. If you love animals and want to study their biology, ecology, and natural history the Bachelor of Zoology is the course for you. You will advance your understanding of the many facets of zoology so that you can apply your knowledge in the real world in areas such as animal behaviour, molecular biology and genetics, conservation biology, herpetology, parasitology, animal physiology, wildlife ecology, freshwater ecology and physical anthropology.
Why study the Bachelor of Zoology with UNE?
Throughout your degree, our Zoology in Practice core program helps you to forge connections in all aspects of your academic journey. The program ensures you will graduate with a solid foundation in pure science and core zoological knowledge and supports your learning and development with access to mentoring and research training.
Our majors are designed with future employability in mind, and we offer a range of multidisciplinary minors to extend and broaden your expertise. Build your own unique cross-section of skills and knowledge to future fit yourself for the rapidly changing world of work.
We have a strong research culture underpinned by high research training standards. Our research in zoology, as well as in many other specific fields of scientific research including ecology, evolutionary biology and genetics, is world class.
The academic staff of our zoology department are internationally recognised experts in their fields with many years of experience working with various types of animals. Their experience and research are incorporated into the teaching material in all units of our zoology course.
UNE's Armidale campus is surrounded by a range of landscapes and ecosystems including rainforests, coastal forests, semi-arid savannah, and freshwater environments that range from sub-tropical coastal ecosystems at sea-level to sub-alpine forests and woodlands at more than 1500m above sea level. Our close proximity to these diverse habitats provides easy access for field trips in which you will gain hands-on experience in zoology.
Whether you study zoology online or on campus, you will have opportunities to participate in fieldwork in our local area and internationally. UNE is the proud caretaker of the Newholme Field Station on the forested slopes of Mount Duval, providing an outdoor classroom with koalas, greater gliders and freshwater turtles on our doorstep. Our study tours visit locations such as Botswana in Africa, and Bhutan in the Himalayas of Asia. Local field trips vary from half-day excursions to week-long residential trips, while international study tours are several weeks in duration.
At UNE, you will have opportunities to participate in cutting edge research with groups including:
- Animal Behavioural and Ecology Lab
- Behavioural and Physiological Ecology Lab
- Function, Evolution and Anatomy Research (FEAR) Lab
- Insect Ecology Lab
- Lab of Applied Zoology and Ecological Restoration (LAZER).
You will have access to UNE's Agriculture Education Building (AEB) which is host to a range of state-of-the-art research laboratories and teaching facilities custom-designed to provide you with an optimum practical experience during your science degree.
UNE's Natural History Museum, established in 1969, represents one of the largest collections of natural history specimens in New South Wales, and showcases the breadth of zoological sciences and natural history that enhances the learning experience. Students in the Bachelor of Zoology have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working behind the scenes cataloguing the museum’s significant zoological collection.
We have formal and informal links with organisations including:
- NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service
- Australian Museum
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation
- Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment
- NSW Department of Primary Industries
- Queensland Museum
- NSW Local Land Services
- Zoos Victoria.
What makes our course different?
As Australia’s only zoology-specific degree, our research-led course emphasises developing your practical laboratory and fieldwork skills with plenty of opportunities for hands-on experience. When you study the Bachelor of Zoology at UNE, you will have opportunities to:
- Explore core topics such as natural history, evolution, animal conservation, vertebrate and invertebrate zoology, mammalogy, entomology, parasitology, ornithology, herpetology and palaeontology.
- Examine animal distribution, management, classification, physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics.
- Hone your research skills by completing ERS381 Project Report in Environmental and Rural Science as a capstone unit for your chosen major.
- Become a member of the UNE Zoology Society, a vibrant student-run society that organises social events, field activities like mammal spotlighting, and trips away to nearby national parks.
- Put your research skills into practice with hands-on laboratory work and field trips in a diverse range of natural habitats that are easily accessible from Armidale.
- Participate in international field trips to Africa and the Himalayas.
- Choose from a range of other units relating to botany, environmental science, geology, and animal production to customise your learning to meet your own goals.
- Progress to an Honours year with UNE's Bachelor of Science with Honours (Zoology) if you have an above average academic record and wish to continue with your studies.
- Study flexibly, online or on campus, part-time or full-time. No matter your study mode, you will have excellent access to our highly experienced teaching staff thanks to our small class sizes.
To discuss individual options, you can consult with the course coordinator or a member of staff from a research area that interests you.
Year after year, students award UNE the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide. We are proud to be Australia’s longest continuous provider of distance (now online) education.
Majors
- Animal Ecology
- Applied Zoology
- Natural History
- Palaeobiology
Minors
- Animal Ecology
- Applied Zoology
- Botany
- Museum Studies
- Natural History
- Palaeobiology
- Science Comunication
- Spatial Science
- Water Science
- Zoological Methods
Study online
Most of our students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support* and fit study around work and family commitments. Uniquely, our online students are mostly over 30 and bring valuable experience with them. They form a community of adults juggling the same challenges and priorities and who bring their life and work experience together at UNE in order to become future-fit and better respond to a rapidly changing world.
Study on campus
Many of our students choose to take advantage of the on-campus lifestyle in Armidale, in the beautiful New England region, with access to unparalleled support, accommodation and sporting facilities. These students are often starting their first degree and have left school recently. Through access to academic and career support they get a fantastic start to their careers.
* 24/7 tutor support includes: essay feedback (within 24 hours); live chat 24/7 for generic feedback on academic writing; and subject-specific help at a foundation or first-year level for subjects including mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, business, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. There are also a wide range of workshops, resources and courses available in academic skills support to assist you and help you to succeed.
Entry requirements
Select the option that best describes you.
If you are an international applicant who wants to study on campus in Australia:
You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.
To meet the entry requirements for this course you must have completed, at minimum, an Australian Year 12 qualification or overseas equivalent.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
You can check your overseas qualifications in our Admission Country List and Qualifications table. If you can't find your qualifications in this list, simply submit your application and UNE's International Admissions team will assess them for you.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have, at Year 12 level (or equivalent):
- sound knowledge of any 2 units of English;
- sound knowledge of 2 units of HSC Chemistry or Physics or thorough knowledge of any other 2 units of HSC Science Board Developed Courses; and
- thorough knowledge of HSC Mathematics Standard.
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of HSC Biology and/or HSC Chemistry; and HSC Mathematics Advanced (or interstate or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus are a requirement for units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
On-Campus study
If you would like to study full-time in Australia at one of UNE's campuses, you will need to have a visa that allows you to study. For most international students this visa will need to be a Student Visa. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has further information about visa eligibility and conditions.
If you are an international applicant who wants to study online (overseas or in Australia):
You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.
To meet the entry requirements for this course you must have completed, at minimum, an Australian Year 12 qualification or overseas equivalent.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
You can check your overseas qualifications in our Admission Country List and Qualifications table. If you can't find your qualifications in this list, simply submit your application and UNE's International Admissions team will assess them for you.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have, at Year 12 level (or equivalent):
- sound knowledge of any 2 units of English;
- sound knowledge of 2 units of HSC Chemistry or Physics or thorough knowledge of any other 2 units of HSC Science Board Developed Courses; and
- thorough knowledge of HSC Mathematics Standard.
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of HSC Biology and/or HSC Chemistry; and HSC Mathematics Advanced (or interstate or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus are a requirement for units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
Online study in your own country
If you would like to study online with UNE while you reside outside of Australia you do not need a Student Visa. If your course requires you to visit Australia to attend any mandatory study requirements, you would need to explore Visitor Visa options for a short-term stay.
Online study in Australia
If you would like to study online with UNE while you are residing in Australia, you will need to hold a visa (other than a Student Visa) that allows you to study. If you are unsure if your visa allows you to study, you can check with UNE's International Admissions team. If you hold a Student Visa you cannot study completely online; you must be enrolled as an on-campus student (although you can study a limited number of online units).
Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:
- Any supporting documents related to your admission pathway. For example, if you apply based on previous study, upload evidence of your study so we can assess eligibility.
- Proof of identity and citizenship. This can be a certified/notarised copy of the photo page of your passport, or another form of official photo identification that lists your full personal details including name and date of birth; for example, a foreign government identity card.
- Evidence of English Language Requirements satisfied. If you have completed a UNE-approved formal English test within the last two years, you must provide a copy of the test results with your application. Please see UNE’s English Language Requirements above for further information.
Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.
Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.
> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing
Select the option that best describes your experience.
You are currently studying Year 12 (school or TAFE) or have done so within the past 2 years.
If you are admitted on the basis of your ATAR, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
There are ATAR-related adjustments that can be applied to increase your rank when applying for this course.
UNE ATAR Adjustment Scheme
UNE can automatically award additional points as adjustment factors to the ATAR of eligible applicants for this course without the need for an additional application.
> Learn more about the UNE ATAR Adjustment Scheme
Education Adjustment Scheme (EAS)
UNE acknowledges and provides consideration for applicants who have experienced an educational disadvantage. If you are planning to study on campus you can seek consideration for this scheme when applying for this course.
> Learn more about EAS
UNE Early Entry Program
Early Entry is open to all Year 12 applicants and relies on your school’s assessment of your attributes and suitability for study. You can apply early, receive an offer and secure a place with UNE, even before your scores are released.
> Learn more about the UNE Early Entry Program
UAC Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS)
This scheme provides eligible Year 12 applicants who have applied via the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) the opportunity to receive early offers of undergraduate admission to UNE based on their school ratings and Year 11 results.
> Learn more about SRS
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have, at Year 12 level (or equivalent):
- sound knowledge of any 2 units of English;
- sound knowledge of 2 units of HSC Chemistry or Physics or thorough knowledge of any other 2 units of HSC Science Board Developed Courses; and
- thorough knowledge of HSC Mathematics Standard.
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of HSC Biology and/or HSC Chemistry; and HSC Mathematics Advanced (or interstate or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus are a requirement for units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
You have studied at UNE or other higher education institutions, completed or otherwise.
You can apply for this course if you have undertaken any of the following qualifications with an appropriate Grade Point Average (GPA):
- Undergraduate Certificates
- Diplomas
- Advanced Diplomas/Associate degrees
- Bachelor degrees
- Postgraduate degrees
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have, at Year 12 level (or equivalent):
- sound knowledge of any 2 units of English;
- sound knowledge of 2 units of HSC Chemistry or Physics or thorough knowledge of any other 2 units of HSC Science Board Developed Courses; and
- thorough knowledge of HSC Mathematics Standard.
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of HSC Biology and/or HSC Chemistry; and HSC Mathematics Advanced (or interstate or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus are a requirement for units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
You have undertaken VET study through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), e.g. TAFE.
You can apply for this course if you have undertaken VET studies. When assessing your application, we will look at the following factors:
- Level and type of qualification (Certificate IV or above)
- Graded or ungraded (competency-based)
- Complete or incomplete.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have, at Year 12 level (or equivalent):
- sound knowledge of any 2 units of English;
- sound knowledge of 2 units of HSC Chemistry or Physics or thorough knowledge of any other 2 units of HSC Science Board Developed Courses; and
- thorough knowledge of HSC Mathematics Standard.
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of HSC Biology and/or HSC Chemistry; and HSC Mathematics Advanced (or interstate or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus are a requirement for units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
You left high school more than two years ago or did not finish Year 12.
You can apply for this course on the basis of work and/or life experience via at least one of the following methods:
Professional Experience
If you have completed at least one year of paid professional experience, we can assess you for admission on this basis. Simply provide a resume and a Statement of Service from your employer/s in your application.
> Find out more about applying based on professional experience
> Learn about our Statement of Service requirements
Mature Age Special Entry
Tell us more about your work and life experience, demonstrating why you believe you will be successful in the course you are applying for. Simply complete the form and upload it in your application.
> Download the Mature Age Special Entry form (PDF)
Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)
The STAT is a test that assesses a range of competencies considered important for successful tertiary study. UNE accepts the multiple-choice component provided you have completed it within the three years prior to course commencement.
> Visit ACER for more information
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
Pathways Enabling Course
This is a free (fees exempt) and 100% online course designed to help you prepare for university. It will provide you with all the skills needed to undertake undergraduate study.
> Learn more about the Pathways Enabling Course
TRACKS (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants)
TRACKS is a preparation course run by the UNE Oorala Aboriginal Centre. Over two trimesters you will experience what university study is about and learn in a supported environment. Be part of a community of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples who share your goals and interests.
> Learn more about TRACKS
Internal Selection Program (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants)
This program is designed for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples who have professional work or community experience, or any formal VET qualifications, e.g. TAFE study.
> Learn more about the Internal Selection Program
Pathways into Science
There is more than one way to study the course of your dreams at UNE. Find out more about Pathways into Science at UNE.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have, at Year 12 level (or equivalent):
- sound knowledge of any 2 units of English;
- sound knowledge of 2 units of HSC Chemistry or Physics or thorough knowledge of any other 2 units of HSC Science Board Developed Courses; and
- thorough knowledge of HSC Mathematics Standard.
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
Before starting this course, we recommend you have a sound understanding of HSC Biology and/or HSC Chemistry; and HSC Mathematics Advanced (or interstate or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus are a requirement for units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:
- Any supporting documents related to your admission pathway. For example, if you apply based on previous study, upload evidence of your study so we can assess eligibility.
- If you are applying through Mature Age Special Entry, you will need to include a completed Mature Age Special Entry form in your online application. Learn more about Mature Age Special Entry.
- If you are applying based on professional experience you will need to provide a resume and a Statement of Service from your employer/s on company letterhead. Learn about our Statement of Service requirements.
Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.
Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.
> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing
Course structure
When unit choice is given in Majors, Minors and/or Electives ensure overall compliance with Course Requirements: 'that the candidate must pass not more than 60 credit points at 100-level, at least 36 credit points at 300-level and not more than 12 credit points at 400-levelStudents must complete Zoology in Practice for each year of full time study (or equivalent)To qualify for the award a candidate must pass units to the value of 144 credit points with not more than 60 credit points at 100-level, at least 36 credit points at 300-level and not more than 12 credit points at 400-level.
72 credit points
Complete the following units:- Introduction to Biology: Cells and Life (BIOL110) – 6 credit points
- Organisms and the Diversity of Life (BIOL120) – 6 credit points
- Foundational Quantitative Methods for Environmental and Rural Sciences (QMER100) – 6 credit points
- Life on Earth (ZOOL100) – 6 credit points
- Zoology in Practice I (ZOOL111) – 2 credit points
- Vertebrate Zoology - Evolution and Diversity (ZOOL203) – 6 credit points
- Invertebrate Zoology (ZOOL210) – 6 credit points
- Entomology (ZOOL320) – 6 credit points
- Zoology in Practice II (ZOOL222) – 2 credit points
- Animal Behaviour (ZOOL326) – 6 credit points
- Ecological and Comparative Physiology (ZOOL327) – 6 credit points
- Evolutionary Parasitology (ZOOL329) – 6 credit points
- Zoology in Practice III (ZOOL333) – 2 credit points
6 credit points
Complete 6 credit points from the following units:- Introductory Chemistry (CHEM100) – 6 credit points
- Chemistry I (CHEM110) – 6 credit points
48 credit points
Complete ONE Major:18 credit points
Complete the following units:- Ecology: Concepts and Applications (ECOL100) – 6 credit points
- Ecology - Populations to Ecosystems (ECOL203) – 6 credit points
- Evolutionary Biology (EVOL211) – 6 credit points
30 credit points
- Wild Dog Ecology (CANI310) – 6 credit points
- Aquatic Ecology (ECOL308) – 6 credit points
- Ecological Methods (ECOL204) – 6 credit points
- Wildlife Ecology and Management (EM323) – 6 credit points
- Conservation Biology (EM353) – 6 credit points
- Techniques in Zoology (ZOOL310) – 6 credit points
- Special Topics and Projects in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS381) – 6 credit points
- Overseas Study Experience (OSSE300) – 6 credit points
- Work Integrated Learning - Professional Skills Development (WORK300) – 6 credit points
18 credit points
Complete the following units:- Animal Handling (ANSC101) – 6 credit points
- Animal Physiology (ANSC201) – 6 credit points
- Evolutionary Biology (EVOL211) – 6 credit points
30 credit points
- Animal Function, Health and Welfare (ANPR321) – 6 credit points
- Holistic Companion and Wild Animal Management (ANSC211) – 6 credit points
- Animals and Us: Ethics and Welfare (ANSC304) – 6 credit points
- Animal Biosecurity (ANSC314) – 6 credit points
- Introductory Genetics (GENE210) – 6 credit points
- Techniques in Zoology (ZOOL310) – 6 credit points
- Special Topics and Projects in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS381) – 6 credit points
- Overseas Study Experience (OSSE300) – 6 credit points
- Work Integrated Learning - Professional Skills Development (WORK300) – 6 credit points
18 credit points
Complete the following units:- Our Blue Planet (GEOL110) – 6 credit points
- Ecology - Populations to Ecosystems (ECOL203) – 6 credit points
- Evolutionary Biology (EVOL211) – 6 credit points
30 credit points
- Zooarchaeology (ARPA309) – 6 credit points
- Plant Diversity (BOTY203) – 6 credit points
- Macroevolution and Systematics (EVOL301) – 6 credit points
- Introductory Palaeontology (GEOL202) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Biogeography (GEPL341) – 6 credit points
- Techniques in Zoology (ZOOL310) – 6 credit points
- Special Topics and Projects in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS381) – 6 credit points
- Overseas Study Experience (OSSE300) – 6 credit points
- Work Integrated Learning - Professional Skills Development (WORK300) – 6 credit points
- Evolutionary Biology (EVOL211) – 6 credit points
- Our Blue Planet (GEOL110) – 6 credit points
- Dynamic Earth (GEOL120) – 6 credit points
- Introductory Palaeontology (GEOL202) – 6 credit points
24 credit points
- Macroevolution and Systematics (EVOL301) – 6 credit points
- Field Mapping and Sedimentology (GEOL206) – 6 credit points
- Dinosaurs! (GEOL210) – 6 credit points
- Palaeontology and Stratigraphy (GEOL311) – 6 credit points
- Vertebrate Palaeontology (GEOL315) – 6 credit points
- Special Topics and Projects in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS381) – 6 credit points
- Overseas Study Experience (OSSE300) – 6 credit points
- Work Integrated Learning - Professional Skills Development (WORK300) – 6 credit points
24 credit points
Complete one minor OR 24 credit points of elective units12 credit points
Complete the following units:- Ecology: Concepts and Applications (ECOL100) – 6 credit points
- Ecology - Populations to Ecosystems (ECOL203) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 12 credit points from the following units:- Wild Dog Ecology (CANI310) – 6 credit points
- Aquatic Ecology (ECOL308) – 6 credit points
- Wildlife Ecology and Management (EM323) – 6 credit points
- Conservation Biology (EM353) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete the following units:- Animal Handling (ANSC101) – 6 credit points
- Animal Physiology (ANSC201) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 12 credit points from the following units:- Animal Function, Health and Welfare (ANPR321) – 6 credit points
- Animals and Us: Ethics and Welfare (ANSC304) – 6 credit points
- Animal Biosecurity (ANSC314) – 6 credit points
- Introductory Genetics (GENE210) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete the following units:- Ecology - Populations to Ecosystems (ECOL203) – 6 credit points
- Our Blue Planet (GEOL110) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 12 credit points from the following units:- Zooarchaeology (ARPA309) – 6 credit points
- Plant Diversity (BOTY203) – 6 credit points
- Macroevolution and Systematics (EVOL301) – 6 credit points
- Introductory Palaeontology (GEOL202) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Biogeography (GEPL341) – 6 credit points
18 credit points
Complete the following units:- Our Blue Planet (GEOL110) – 6 credit points
- Dynamic Earth (GEOL120) – 6 credit points
- Introductory Palaeontology (GEOL202) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete 6 credit points from the following units:- Field Mapping and Sedimentology (GEOL206) – 6 credit points
- Dinosaurs! (GEOL210) – 6 credit points
- Palaeontology and Stratigraphy (GEOL311) – 6 credit points
- Vertebrate Palaeontology (GEOL315) – 6 credit points
18 credit points
Complete the following units:- Science in Practice (SCI100) – 6 credit points
- The Craft of Academic Writing (WRIT101) – 6 credit points
- Writing for Research (WRIT303) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete 6 credit points from the following units:- News and Journalism (COMM332) – 6 credit points
- Speaking in Public (THEA234) – 6 credit points
- Writing for Work: Styles and Contexts (WRIT306) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete the following units:- Macroevolution and Systematics (EVOL301) – 6 credit points
- History and Museums (HIST337) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 12 credit points from the following units:- The Shadow of Vesuvius: Pompeii and Herculaneum (ANCH315) – 6 credit points
- Archaeology: Principles and Practices (ARPA104) – 6 credit points
- Researching the Past in the Digital Age (HINQ302) – 6 credit points
- Work Integrated Learning - Professional Skills Development (WORK300) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete the following units:- Aquatic Ecology (ECOL308) – 6 credit points
- Catchment to Coast (GEPL311) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 12 credit points from the following units:- Water in the Environment (GEPL306) – 6 credit points
- Water Law and Governance (LAW207) – 6 credit points
- Pollution Management (RSNR301) – 6 credit points
- Ecosystem Rehabilitation (EM351) – 6 credit points
18 credit points
Complete the following units:- Plant Physiology and Anatomy (BOTY202) – 6 credit points
- Plant Diversity (BOTY203) – 6 credit points
- Ecology of Australian Vegetation (ECOL311) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete 6 credit points from the following units:- Mosses and Mushrooms - Cryptogam Diversity (BOTY370) – 6 credit points
- Field Botany (BOTY390) – 6 credit points
- Ecology of Plant Populations (ECOL307) – 6 credit points
- Conservation Genetics and Genomics (ECOL320) – 6 credit points
- Macroevolution and Systematics (EVOL301) – 6 credit points
24 credit points
Complete the following units:- Earth Observation (GISC331) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to GIS and Spatial Thinking (GISC334) – 6 credit points
- Spatial Analysis and Modelling (GISC433) – 6 credit points
- Remote Sensing and Image Analysis (GISC436) – 6 credit points
18 credit points
Complete the following units:- Ecological Methods (ECOL204) – 6 credit points
- Applied Research Skills in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS301) – 6 credit points
- Techniques in Zoology (ZOOL310) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete 6 credit points from the following units:- Overseas Study Experience (OSSE300) – 6 credit points
- Techniques in Zoology (ZOOL310) – 6 credit points
24 credit points
If a minor is not chosen, select 24 credit points of elective units. Elective Units can be selected from any unit offered by the University subject to candidates meeting overall course requirements and prerequisite and timetabling requirements for individual units.See UNE Handbook for more details. The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course plans, exit awards, intensive schools, and work placement requirements.
Fees and scholarships
How much will it cost?
Estimated fees for your first year of study in this course are:
Fee type | Cost |
---|---|
International | $34,800* |
Commonwealth Supported Place | $8,555* |
Estimated amenities fee per year if studying full-time | $365 |
*Annual course fees only cover the cost of tuition. They do not include other expenses associated with university study such as text books, accommodation and living expenses. If you are successful in gaining admission to study at UNE, the Offer of Admission will list the exact tuition fees you need to pay for your course. Fees quoted cover full-time tuition for two full-time trimesters only. For more information, please see fees and costs.
What are the course fee payment options?
A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a government subsidised place in a university course. The government pays part of your tuition fees, and you pay the remainder.
If you have a CSP in either an undergraduate or postgraduate (coursework) degree, you may be eligible for a HECS-HELP Loan, which allows you to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.
UNE scholarships are open for all to apply and offer financial help while you are studying. There are scholarships for students with high academic achievement, from rural areas, studying specific degrees, in disadvantaged groups, experiencing financial hardship, who excel at sport or want to live in a UNE residential college.
UNE scholarship applications are free and confidential. You may apply for more than one scholarship.
Scholarships
UNE offers bursaries and scholarships that can help you with the costs of studying and living in Australia.
The UNE International Bursary reduces the published annual tuition fees for international students by up to 20%. These bursaries are available for international students commencing coursework studies at UNE in 2024. View detailed Bursary information.
UNE also offers a number of substantial research scholarships to postgraduate students studying research-based degrees.
Your career
You will graduate from UNE’s Bachelor of Zoology with well-developed research, laboratory and fieldwork skills that will be valued in a range of careers.
Graduates with a zoology background are widely employed across a range of industries and institutions. Your career options could include:
- research positions in institutions such as the CSIRO and Antarctic research stations
- environmental officer or conservation officer roles with local, state and federal government agencies
- researcher or officer in non-for-profit agencies
- museum research and collections management in a museum
- field officer in national parks and marine parks
- technician or researcher in zoological gardens or animal breeding programs
- environmental consultant.
Zoology graduates are specialists with skills in research, experimental design, ecology and natural resource management. The Australian government’s Job Outlook forecasts strong demand for graduates with skills in environmental sciences. It projects there will be around 14,000 job openings in this area over the next five years.
Course outcomes
- articulate a coherent understanding of the discipline of zoology, its relevance to society, and its role in contributing to scientific knowledge;
- articulate a broad theoretical knowledge of zoology and the contestable and testable nature of scientific inquiry, and thorough knowledge of at least one sub-discipline of zoology;
- apply theoretical zoological knowledge, practical zoological skills, and knowledge of statistical and experimental design to answer zoological questions using a scientific research framework;
- synthesise zoological knowledge, scientific literacy and communication skills so as to impart zoological results, information or arguments to a range of audiences, for a range of purposes; and
- apply practical skills to work ethically and responsibly with animals in field and laboratory settings, either individually, or as part of a collaborative team.
- Knowledge of a Discipline
Graduates will be able to apply a depth and range of knowledge relevant to the discipline of zoology, including a knowledge of the diversity of the animal kingdom and how that diversity arose through evolution. They will be proficient in a variety of field and laboratory skills in zoology.
- Communication Skills
Graduates will be able to communicate scientific results and information to a wide range of audiences using a range of media including written, spoken and visual, both online and in print.
- Problem Solving
Graduates will be able to design and undertake research to solve problems in zoology using the scientific method, including the use of statistics and other quantitative skills.
- Information Literacy
Graduates will be able to collect, understand and evaluate scientific results from a wide range of sources using a variety of scientific and professional digital environments.
- Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility
Graduates will be able to exercise social responsibility by recognising the relevant ethical frameworks within which scientific research on animals is practised and show a capacity for working responsibly and safely in both individual and team environments.
- Lifelong Learning
Graduates will be able to demonstrate self-directed learning using critical thinking and analytical skills.
- Independence and Collaboration
Graduates will be able to work independently on projects, but also function as members and/or leaders of collaborative teams.
A five-star experience
Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience
Good Universities Guide 2007-2024No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience
QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience
QILT Student Experience SurveyFive Stars for
Teaching Quality
UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
A five-star experience
Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience
Good Universities Guide 2007-2024No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience
QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience
QILT Student Experience SurveyFive Stars for
Teaching Quality
UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian University.
As an international student you can take advantage of flexible online study from overseas or while you are studying in Australia on a visa other than a student visa. You can’t study fully online on a Student Visa.
To study online from overseas you need to consider that you may need to travel to Australia to attend a UNE campus for some mandatory intensive schools.
Studying on Campus
Whether you are an undergraduate student coming to study in Australia for the first time, a PhD student coming to live here with your family, or you only need short-stay accommodation whilst in Armidale for Intensive Schools, we have the perfect accommodation option for you.
Stay connected
Register your interest and we'll keep you updated
Why study with us?
There are opportunities to help out on research projects and see what it's like, get hands on with the animals and build up your connections with professors and other PhD students.
Why study with us?
UNE is a world class university. This university broadened my knowledge with a new academic world.
How to apply
Preparing to apply
You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.
The kind of documents you need will depend on:
- Your preferred course/s
- Your personal circumstances
Preparing to apply
You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.
The kind of documents you need will depend on:
- Your preferred course/s
- Your personal circumstances
Important Dates
Different application methods and courses can have different closing dates. To find your correct application method click the Apply Now button below. Please check the appropriate application website for opening and closing dates.
If you are applying online direct to UNE please see below for application dates.
Intake | Application Closing Date | Trimester Start Date |
---|---|---|
Trimester 1 | 14 February 2025 | 24 February 2025 |
Trimester 2 | 13 June 2025 | 23 June 2025 |
Trimester 3 | 10 October 2025 | 20 October 2025 |