Become future-fit for the ever-evolving landscape of zoology
Zoology involves the study of animals, including their behaviour, physiology, genetics and evolution. As our understanding of animal behaviour and biology evolves, professionals in this field must keep pace with the latest research and technological advancements. With the constant emergence of new technologies, global collaborations and an expanding understanding of animal life, adaptable zoologists who can stay ahead of these changes will secure their professional careers in this dynamic field.
UNE offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in zoology designed to equip you with the knowledge required to adapt and respond to new challenges at work. With our extensive experience in preparing adults for evolving workplaces, studying zoology with UNE provides you with practical knowledge in critical areas such as animal behavior, ecology, conservation biology and genetics.
UNE delivers flexibility by offering both online and on-campus learning, each with its own unique advantages. Online students can collaborate with other experienced adults and fit their studies around their responsibilities. On campus students can enjoy the convenience of living on campus, using sports facilities, and accessing support services. You can choose to study on a full-time or part-time basis, over three trimesters each year.
You will graduate from your studies at UNE with everything you need to succeed in your career, whichever facet of zoology you decide to pursue. By choosing UNE, you’ll be studying with an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning. Year after year, students award us the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.
Discover the zoology courses and specialisations on offer here at UNE.
Courses by study level
With UNE's Bachelor of Agriculture, you will gain practical, production-oriented, specialist skills. You will have the paddock-ready skills and knowledge to solve problems and adapt to future challenges as a professional. Choose a major from one of three production-based options — animal, plant, and mixed farming — to gain a specialisation allowing you to enter the agricultural industry with expert knowledge and a technical skillset in the productive management of agriculutral landscapes.
With a Bachelor of Agriculture from UNE you will be well positioned to gain employment across a range of agricultural industries, and fit for the future.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
With UNE's Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Business you will gain practical, production-oriented skills and knowledge in agriculture together with in-depth skills and knowledge in business, management and finance. You will learn to formulate strategies and become an informed decision maker who can communicate effectively in this rapidly evolving industry.
Our combined degree enables you to specialise by studying one of four business majors to complement the paddock-ready skills you gain from the Bachelor of Agriculture component. Depending on your business major, you may also focus your agriculture studies by choosing one of six agriculture minors. You will be well positioned for career success with the expertise to adapt to a changing world.
- 4 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
Anticipate and respond to the demands of agricultural industries and businesses in a changing global environment and gain a broad range of in-demand legal skills with the UNE Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Laws. In this double degree you will benefit from UNE’s unique position in regional Australia, with the flexibility to build your capabilities in areas that interest you most. With your acquired legal and agricultural knowledge, advanced research skills and technical skillset, you will graduate with broad knowledge and specialist skills for greater career flexibility.
- 5 years full-time
- Up to 12 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
With UNE's Bachelor of Animal Science you will graduate with knowledge and skills in the science-based fundamentals that underpin the relationships with and management of animals, plus acquire the practical experience to be on track for a rewarding career in rapidly changing animal-related industries. You will develop expertise in a specialist area through your major in livestock science or animal bioscience.
Enhance your science-based qualifications and future fit your career across a range of workplace contexts.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
Do you dream of a career where you’re helping to address the big issues facing humanity? Or perhaps you crave the excitement of being at the forefront of scientific discovery? Maybe you wish to instil your passion for the environment into future generations? Our Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science is uniquely positioned to help you reach your goals, with wide-spanning knowledge and a diverse set of skills to be adaptable in a rapidly changing world. This combined degree will help lay the foundation for you to acquire the ability to innovate and problem-solve — attributes that are in demand more than ever by employers in Australia and internationally.
- 4 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
With UNE's Bachelor of Rural Science, you will graduate at the forefront of the agricultural industry ready to solve complex problems in agricultural systems across enterprises, landscapes and the globe. You will have the paddock-ready scientific skills to adapt to future challenges as a professional, and you will gain an understanding of the sustainability of the whole agricultural system from the biophysical (soils, plants and animal production) including environmental, social and economic principles.
You will be fit for the future and well positioned to become a leader in a range of industry contexts from farm management, the corporate world and scientific research.
- 4 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Constant technological disruption and new discoveries in science influence every aspect of our lives, meaning that there has never been a better time than now to safeguard your future career with scientific knowledge and practical skills. With 20 majors to choose from, UNE’s Bachelor of Science is flexibly delivered by experts in research and teaching. Tailor your degree towards generalist or specialist science, while developing a broad scientific base and refining your abilities in critical analysis and complex problem solving. Our majors span the pure and applied sciences, with specialisation available in traditional disciplines and emerging fields.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
Studying the Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws at UNE will equip you with an extensive portfolio of knowledge and skills to future proof your career. In this comprehensive program of study, you will develop contemporary skills in how to write for, research, argue and apply the law, as well as explore a full breadth of contemporary science topics and issues. You will graduate with knowledge and skills to apply to a wide range of professions, benefitting from UNE's regional, rural and remote expertise in both fields to ensure you are ready to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
- 5 years full-time
- Up to 12 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
In a rapidly changing world, there has never been a better time to expand your understanding of science and technology. UNE’s Bachelor of Scientific Studies is designed to provide you with broad scientific background to assist with future employment or to pursue further study. It is also a pathway to transition to a specialised science-based degree if you do not have an educational background in science. Our course encourages the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as skills for communication and lifelong learning, allowing you to apply these skills to your specific field of interest.
With an adaptable skill set you will be ready to respond to the challenges and opportunities in any career.
- 3 years full-time
- 6 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Zoology examines how animals of all kinds — from microscopic parasites to blue whales, and from tiny finches to dinosaurs — 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.
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.
Create a lifelong career with Australia's only zoology-specific degree.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Are you interested in studying science and want to explore the topics that interest you? UNE’s Diploma in Science is ideal if you are new to university study and want to get started in science, or if you wish to develop a foundation of skills and knowledge across a broad range of scientific disciplines to supplement your study in another field or add value to your role. Our course is designed to provide you with maximum flexibility, allowing you to tailor your program of study to your individual needs, with guidance and support from our experienced academic staff.
Choose from units across a wide range of scientific disciplines or focus on a specific subject area, and equip yourself with the tools you will need to pursue further study or pivot in your career and thrive in the rapidly changing world of science and technology.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
This course is not offered in Trimester 3, 2024. We encourage you to explore our Diploma in Science as an alternative.
Gain foundational skills in animal studies – and knowledge in the science-based essentials that underpin the management of animals – with our Undergraduate Certificate in Animal Studies.
This course is developed by passionate lecturers who are experts in their fields and involved in industry-leading research. It is a fantastic starting point if you would like a future working with animals or want to upskill in your current career. Plus, you can springboard to further study and receive credit for completed units.
- 1 year part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
This course is not offered in Trimester 3, 2024. We encourage you to explore our Diploma in Science as an alternative.
The study of Life and Earth Studies is diverse and multidisciplinary, involving science, geology, ecology, biology, chemistry, evolution and more.
Students at UNE are part of a rich history of life and earth science education in Australia, and benefit from the unique landscape that preserves half a billion years of history.
Our Undergraduate Certificate in Life and Earth Studies equips you with the foundational knowledge and skills to ensure you’re ready for placement in the industry or further study in the field.
- 1 year part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
This course is not offered in Trimester 3, 2024. We encourage you to explore our suite of undergraduate courses for an alternative course that meets your goals.
The UNE Undergraduate Certificate in Professional Development is a program of study for people from a broad range of backgrounds who want to begin developing skills for future careers or further study. Designed in response to rapid workplace and industry changes brought about by COVID19, it can help you develop knowledge and skills in a range of disciplinary areas. This program is available fully online and includes a core unit to help you articulate your career goals. For students in Tamworth there are options for face-to-face learning and the chance to undertake work experience with a local employer in some specialisations.
- 1 trimester full-time
- 1 year part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
Contribute to world class research by completing a Bachelor of Science with Honours at UNE. Position yourself with advanced scientific knowledge in an era of rapid change. Our honours course goes beyond the normal practical and field training and provides you with a wide range of cross-disciplinary applied research opportunities to foster your development as a skill research professional.
We offer a range of majors spanning the pure and applied sciences, working with UNE's internationally recognised research disciplines. Our flexible, innovative learning environment equips you with advanced discipline knowledge and skills in critical thinking, data analysis and problem-solving to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
- 1 year full-time
- 2 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
With UNE's Graduate Certificate in Agriculture, you can expand your professional skills and gain a specialisation in a specific area of agriculture or develop your fundamental knowledge of agricultural science. UNE's Graduate Certificate in Agriculture is an opportunity to fast-track your career via a range of coursework programs designed to develop your expertise. You'll be able to choose your specialist area from options that include general agricultural production, precision agriculture, cotton production, agricultural consulting, sustainable agriculture, sheep and wool science, genetics, soil science, and animal health and nutrition.
Open doors to employment options in this rapidly changing industry and future fit your career.
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- On Campus
- Online
Adapt to an evolving workplace and open the door to new career opportunities with UNE's Graduate Certificate in Professional Practice. Whether you want to create more career choices, hone your specialist skills, or take a new career direction, we will work with you to customise a course to match your skills and aspirations.
Choose from a full breadth of subjects. Avoid getting bogged down in a lengthy, traditional course, and instead, play to your natural strengths, refine your skills and draw on your experience to prepare for the future. And do it all with the support of an expert academic success advisor with 1:1 guidance from start to finish.
- 0.5 years full-time
- 2 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
In the rapidly changing world of science and technology, it has never been more important to refine and expand your expertise. UNE's Graduate Certificate in Science, flexibly delivered online or on campus, gives you the opportunity to complete intensive graduate-level study in science, whether you want to upskill or you are seeking to update your discipline knowledge. With 11 majors to choose from, and options to continue to further higher degree research, you can safeguard your career and be ready to adapt and respond to challenges you will face in this diverse and dynamic field.
- 0.5 years full-time
- Up to 2 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Online
- On Campus
Design a bespoke course and prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace with the UNE Graduate Diploma in Professional Practice. Whether you want to advance your career, hone your skills or embark on a new career direction, we'll work with you to design a course to match your skills and aspirations. You will have the freedom to assemble your course from a full breadth of subjects, play to your strengths and draw from your experience to achieve your goals. Learn in a way that suits your timeframe and do it all with the support of an expert academic success advisor — with one-on-one guidance from start to finish. You'll be paving your pathway to the next stage of your career.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
Whether you want to upgrade your expertise or pivot to another scientific speciality, UNE's Graduate Diploma in Science allows you to hone your skills and future fit your career. Flexibly delivered, and with a wide range of majors in diverse scientific disciplines to choose from, you can tailor the course to your strengths and interests. Add value to your role and ensure you can adapt and thrive in the rapidly changing world of science and technology.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Online
- On Campus
With a wide range of majors in both the pure and applied sciences, UNE's Master of Scientific Studies provides you with specialised training in your chosen scientific discipline. Do you want to be able to respond to constant technological disruption in the workplace by learning more about big data? Perhaps you are passionate about our natural environments and want to refine your knowledge of Australian plants and animals. Are you upskilling to position yourself at the cutting-edge of new medical discoveries?
Our coursework Master's degree gives you opportunities to future fit your career by expanding on your expertise, upgrading your applied skills, and developing the advanced knowledge needed to solve complex problems in the rapidly changing world of science and technology.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 6 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- On Campus
- Online
A Doctor of Philosophy is the pinnacle of academic study. Using rigorous and systematic research, combined with critical analysis, you will add to society's understanding of complex issues at the cutting-edge of your discipline or profession.
When you complete your PhD at UNE, you will be recognised as an expert in your area of study. Your original discoveries and innovations will be applied to benefit society and industry in Australia and worldwide.
- 4 years full-time
- 8 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
High quality research and analysis allows us to better understand the complex issues we face in industry and society. With UNE's Master of Philosophy by research, your original findings and insights will add to the body of knowledge and inform decision-making in your specialist area.
You will work independently, with personalised support from recognised experts in your area of study every step of the way. Expand your expertise, hone your research skills, and immediately apply your knowledge in a research topic of your choice.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
Upgrade your knowledge and skills or pivot your career by developing expertise in sustainable, science-based agricultural systems of production through UNE's Master of Rural Science. This postgraduate degree offers a supportive program of independent research related to practical and sustainable production of food and fibre.
UNE is a leading innovator in teaching and research in the agricultural sciences. Your advanced knowledge and skillset will prepare you for high-level work in this rapidly evolving industry.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
Understanding and discovery in science drives advancement, providing solutions to the world's health, environmental, agricultural and technological challenges. UNE's Master of Science allows you to study flexibly, to gain expertise and research training, and to contribute to current scientific knowledge. You will be supervised by internationally-recognised scientists and with opportunities to immerse yourself in UNE's vibrant research culture and access to our world-class facilities, develop your skills as a research professional.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
If you are enrolled at another university, you can choose to study subjects at UNE that will count towards your course. Apply as a cross institutional student directly and complete one or several individual subjects (units) from the full scope of UNE's discipline areas.
- 1 trimester full-time
- 1 trimester part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
The world is full of possibilities, with so much to discover and learn. There are endless opportunities to enrich your knowledge to prepare for the future, but what if you don’t want to undertake a full degree? And how can you zero-in on the subjects that matter most to you? That’s what a Non-Award with UNE will help you to achieve.
Studying a Non-Award means you can learn without the need to complete entire course requirements or take on a full course load. Whether it’s a language you want to learn, a business unit to enhance your career, an improvement of your IT skills, an update on education principles or developing your management style, Non-Award study gives you the flexibility and control to explore what matters to you.
- 1 trimester full-time
- 1 trimester part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
- Bespoke Graduate Certificate: design your own 4 unit postgraduate course and have your work experience recognised in the process.
- ‘Fundamental’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four fundamental units from a traditional degree. If you are planning a new direction, or adding a new set of skills to your portfolio, you may want to start with this option. These units provide a foundation, or a ‘base camp’, to return to if you want to later progress to a full degree.
- ‘Advanced’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four advanced units from a full degree. This is a great strategy for staying current in your field, or advancing your knowledge.
- ‘Critical Content’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four units from any of the available units in a degree to create a Critical Content Bespoke Course. This option lets you get the knowledge you need without the time and cost of a full degree.
- ‘Mix and Match’ Bespoke Course: combine two, three or four units from different degrees and disciplines to design your mix and match Bespoke Course. This option lets you diversify your knowledge.
Why study with us?
![Smiling Bachelor of Agriculture student Greg Kemmett stands on wooden stairwell at UNE Armidale](https://d1dkx4rtpm18tu.cloudfront.net/file/1572608410/63320803472/width=-1/height=-1/format=-1/fit=scale/t=445005/e=never/k=805b79a7/Greg-Kemmett-1.jpg)
The most enjoyable part of my studies is the sense of achievement and being part of something bigger than myself.
Greg KemmettFind the right major or specialisation for your studies in Zoology
Prepare yourself for the technological advances and an increasing focus on conservation, in the evolving landscape of zoology with UNE. Study one of our zoology offerings and graduate with the advanced knowledge and practical skills of an innovative and adaptable zoology specialist.
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
Rapid advances in genetics such as gene editing, personalised medicine, and genomic research have spurred a need for more trained professionals in this field. Enhance your skills in statistical modelling, bioinformatics, population genetics, and…
Rapid advances in genetics such as gene editing, personalised medicine, and genomic research have spurred a need for more trained professionals in this field. Enhance your skills in statistical modelling, bioinformatics, population genetics, and genomic analysis with the experts at UNE.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Agriculture | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Business | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Laws | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Animal Science | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Rural Science | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Science | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Science with Honours | Major | Bachelor Honours |
Master of Scientific Studies | Major | Postgraduate |
Graduate Diploma in Science | Major | Postgraduate |
Graduate Certificate in Science | Major | Postgraduate |
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
Advance your career by developing specialist skills in research methods with UNE. Develop a comprehensive understanding of research design, methodology and analysis. Statistical modelling skills will ensure you are prepared for the growing use of…
Advance your career by developing specialist skills in research methods with UNE. Develop a comprehensive understanding of research design, methodology and analysis. Statistical modelling skills will ensure you are prepared for the growing use of digital tools and technologies in all industries.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Animal Science | Minor | Undergraduate |
Graduate Certificate in Science | Major | Postgraduate |
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
Become an expert in animal behaviour, biology, and ecology with UNE. Hone the technical skills such as remote sensing and data analysis that employers are now seeking. Secure a career in areas with growing demand such as conservation, wildlife…
Become an expert in animal behaviour, biology, and ecology with UNE. Hone the technical skills such as remote sensing and data analysis that employers are now seeking. Secure a career in areas with growing demand such as conservation, wildlife management, agriculture, or research.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Environmental Science | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Laws | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Science | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Zoology | Specialist Course | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Science with Honours | Major | Bachelor Honours |
Master of Scientific Studies | Major | Postgraduate |
Graduate Diploma in Science | Major | Postgraduate |
Graduate Certificate in Science | Major | Postgraduate |
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Why study with us?
Australian Universities
Public NSW Universities
NSW Universities
Careers in Zoology
As ecosystems respond to climate change, adaptable and experienced experts in zoology are in demand to manage and conserve the habitats of our fauna. At UNE you will graduate with a workplace-ready degree, prepared to take on the challenges and opportunities presented to flexible, knowledgeable experts in this diverse and exciting field.
- Zoologist
Conduct research and studies on animal behaviour, biology and habitats. - Ecologist
Analyse the interactions between living organisms and their environment to help manage and preserve natural areas and ecosystems. - Wildlife biologist
Study the biology and behaviour of wild animals, monitor and manage populations, and work to protect endangered species. - Zookeeper
Care for animals in zoos and wildlife parks, ensuring their health and wellbeing, and educating the public about animal conservation. - Marine biologist
Study marine life and ecosystems, working to conserve and manage ocean resources. - Animal behaviourist
Study the behaviour and psychology of animals to develop training programs and behavioural interventions to improve animal welfare. - Conservation biologist
Work to protect and conserve endangered species and their habitats and develop conservation strategies and plans to manage ecosystems. - Environmental consultant
Advise on environmental issues such as habitat conservation, pollution control and sustainable resource management.
A career in Zoology
There are a huge variety of rewarding career paths in the fields of zoology and animals, where professionals are in high demand and salaries are generous. A qualification in these disciplines can help you future-proof your career.
UNE being a small university brings with it so many advantages – you aren’t simply a number in the system, it’s a high-quality personal educational experience.
There are opportunities to help out on research projects, get hands on with the animals and build up your connections with professors and PhD students.
UNE provided plenty of opportunities for hands on experiences, which was hugely beneficial for later employment.
Job opportunities in a range of zoology and animal-related careers are rated as ‘stable’ or ‘strong’ by the Australian Government’s Labour Insights Market website. Graduates are not just working in scientific and research fields. Many pursue careers in education, communications and consulting for various industries which involve animals and wildlife.
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 2024Browse other disciplines within Earth and Environment
What happens next?
Got any questions about a course you would like to study? Don’t hesitate to contact us, our Future Student team is standing by to help.
2024 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.