Key information
- Duration:
- 3 years full time
- Typical A-level offer:
- ABB-BBB
- Contextual A-level offer:
- BBC-BCC
- UCAS code:
- C300
- Start date:
- September 2023
- 7th in the UK for Animal Science (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022)
- 94% of our research overall in Biological Sciences was assessed to be world leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021)
Zoology is the study of animals, how they behave, evolve and influence the world around them. Our friendly faculty are experts in the behaviour, conservation and evolution of animals – from white sharks and spider monkeys to bees and cuttlefish – and will inspire your passion for the subject.
At Sussex, you’ll experience Zoology first-hand. The University is the perfect place to study British wildlife – the South Downs National Park and the coast are on our doorstep. You’ll have the opportunity to go on an exciting range of local, national and international field trips.
Our links with a range of organisations give you the opportunity to prepare for careers in fields including:
- conservation
- environmental management
- rewilding.
We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to significant disruption, or in response to COVID-19, we’ll let our students know as soon as possible.
MSci or BSc?
We also offer this course as a four-year MSci. Find out about the benefits of an integrated Masters year.
Open Days and virtual visits
Meet us on campus or online
Entry requirements
A-level
| Typical offer | ABB-BBB |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | BBC-BCC Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| Subjects | A-levels must include Biology grade B. You will also need to pass the separate science practical assessment. If you are not able to take the science practical assessment, applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
|
| GCSEs | You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B). |
| Extended Project Qualification | We take the EPQ into account when considering your application and it can be useful in the summer when your results are released if you have narrowly missed the conditions of your offer. We do not routinely include the EPQ in the conditions of your offer but we sometimes offer alternative conditions that include the EPQ. If you wish to discuss this further please contact us |
Other UK qualifications
Access to HE Diploma
| Typical offer | Pass Diploma with at least 39 level 3 credits at Merit or above including 21-24 credits at Distinction |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Substantial amounts of Level 3 credit in biology related science subjects. |
| GCSEs | You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B). |
Cambridge Pre-U Principle Subjects (including A-level mixes)
| Typical offer | M1 M2 M2 If you have one A-level and two Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects we would expect you to have grade A at A-level and, M2 and M2 in two Pre-Us. If you have two A-levels and a Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subject we would normally expect you to have grades AB at A-level and M2 in Pre-U. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | A-levels or Cambridge Pre-Us must include Biology. Where you are taking a science subject that has the separate science practical assessment, the University would normally expect a pass. If students are not able to take the science practical assessment, applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. |
| GCSEs | You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B). |
International Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | 30 -32 points overall from the full IB Diploma. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Higher Levels must include Biology with a grade of 5. |
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and one A-level
| Typical offer | Grade B in A-level and DD in Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma. |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | Grade B in A-level and DM in Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma. Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| Subjects | A-level must be in Biology. Applicants combining a different A-level with the BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Applied Science will be considered on a case-by-case basis. If you have taken a science A-level you will also normally need to pass the separate science practical assessment in a science subject. If you are not able to take the science practical assessment, applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. |
| GCSEs | You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B). |
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate and two A-levels
| Typical offer | Grades BB in A-levels and Distinction in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate. |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | Grades BC in A-levels and Distinction in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate. Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| Subjects | A-levels must include Biology at grade B. You will also normally need to pass the separate science practical assessment in at least one of the science subjects. If you are not able to take the science practical assessment, applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. |
| GCSEs | You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B). |
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma)
| Typical offer | DDD-DDM |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | DDM-DMM Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| Subjects | The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma will need to be in Applied science and must include the following modules For the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma, please contact admissions ug.applicants@sussex.ac.uk |
| GCSEs | You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B). |
Scottish Highers
| Typical offer | AABBB-ABBBB |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Highers must include Biology. Ideally, you will have Biology at Advanced Higher. |
| GCSEs | You will also need Scottish National 5 in Mathematics and two sciences at grade B. |
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced
| Typical offer | ABB-BBB from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate and two A-levels. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | A-levels must include Biology. |
| GCSEs | You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade B in each (or grade 5). |
International Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | 30 -32 points overall from the full IB Diploma. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Higher Levels must include Biology with a grade of 5. |
European Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | Overall result of at least 75% to 77%. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential (at least a score of 8). You must also have a good level of mathematics. |
Other international qualifications
Australia
| Typical offer | Relevant state (Year 12) High School Certificate, and between 88% to 85% in the ATAR or UAI/TER/ENTER, or a Queensland OP of 4 to 5 or better. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Austria
| Typical offer | Reifeprüfung or Matura with an overall result of between 2.0 to 2.2 or better for first-year entry. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Belgium
| Typical offer | Certificat d'Enseignement Secondaire Supérieur (CESS) or Diploma van Hoger Secundair Onderwijs with a good overall average of 65% or more. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Bulgaria
| Typical offer | Diploma za Sredno Obrazovanie with excellent final-year scores (normally 5.5 overall with 6 in key subjects). |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Canada
| Typical offer | Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) 70%-75% from 6 grade 12 U, U/C or M courses. British Columbia Certificate of Graduation AABBB-BBBBB from 5 grade 12 courses. We also recognise the High School Diploma from other provinces -including Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick- where we look for strong performance in grade 12 subjects, and the Diplome d'Etudes Collegiales (DEC) from Quebec. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
China
| Typical offer | If you have the Goakao, we will consider applications for direct entry to first year. You would normally need an overall average of 75%, including required subjects. We are also pleased to consider applications if you are following a recognised International Foundation Year or you have one or more years of Higher Education in China at a recognised degree awarding institution. The Senior High School Graduation alone would not be sufficient for entry to our undergraduate degrees, but you may be eligible to apply for our International Foundation Year. If you successfully complete an International Foundation Year, you can progress on to a relevant undergraduate course at Sussex. Check which qualifications the International Study Centre accepts for the International Foundation Year. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Croatia
| Typical offer | Maturatna Svjedodžba with an overall score of between 4 and 4.2 |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Cyprus
| Typical offer | Apolytirion of Lykeion with an overall average of between 18/20 and 18.5/20 will be considered for first-year entry.
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Czech Republic
| Typical offer | Maturita with a good overall average. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Denmark
| Typical offer | Højere Forberedelseseksamen (HF) or Studentereksamen with an overall average of at least 7 on the new grading scale. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Finland
| Typical offer | Pass Ylioppilastutkinto with overall final result between MMMM - EMMM |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
France
| Typical offer | French Baccalauréat with overall final result between 12/20 and 13/20. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You will need to be taking the science strand within the French Baccalauréat with good results (12/20) in Biology. You must also have a good level of Mathematics.
|
Germany
| Typical offer | German Abitur with an overall result of 2.0 to 2.2 or better. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results (12/15) in Biology. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Greece
| Typical offer | Apolytirion with an overall average of between 18 and 18.5 will be considered for first-year entry. You must also have either Apolytirion pathway in Biology with a score of 19 or the Pan Hellenic in Biology, with an overall score of 17. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Hong Kong
| Typical offer | Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) with grades of 5, 4, 4 to 4, 4, 4 from three subjects including two electives. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Hungary
| Typical offer | Erettsegi/Matura with a good average of at least 55544. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
India
| Typical offer | Standard XII results
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Iran
| Typical offer | Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics.
|
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Ireland
| Typical offer | Irish Leaving Certificate (Higher Level) at H1,H2,H2,H3,H3 to H2,H2,H2,H3,H3. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Highers will need to include Biology, with a grade of H1. You must have at least grade O3 in Mathematics. |
Israel
| Typical offer | For first year entry at least 80% (or 8/10) in at least 6 subjects, including one 5 unit subject, in one sitting of the Bagrut. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Italy
| Typical offer | Italian Diploma Di Maturità or Diploma Pass Di Esame Di Stato with a final Diploma mark of between 78/100 and 81/100. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Japan
| Typical offer | Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics.
|
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Latvia
| Typical offer | Atestats par Visparejo videjo Izglitibu with very good grades in state exams. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Lithuania
| Typical offer | Brandos Atestatas including scores of 80% in at least three state examinations (other than English). |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Luxembourg
| Typical offer | Pass the Diplome de Fin d’Etudes Secondaires with between 43-46 points overall. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Malaysia
| Typical offer | Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) with grades of ABB-BBB, Matriculation with a least a grade of 3.0 or UEC with an overall average grade B3 (75%). |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Netherlands
| Typical offer | Voorereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs (VWO), normally with an average of at least 7. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Nigeria
| Typical offer | You are expected to have one of the following:
You must also have a score of C6 or above in WAEC/SSC English. Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Norway
| Typical offer | Norwegian Vitnemal Fra Den Videregaende Opplaering - Pass with an overall average of 4. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Pakistan
| Typical offer | You can apply for direct entry to Year 1 if you are completing at least two years of Bachelor degree studies. You'll normally need to complete a Foundation year after taking Intermediate Certificate or the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC). You might choose one of our International Foundation Years at the International Study Centre on campus. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Poland
| Typical offer | Pass Matura with least 3 Extended level subjects in the 75th percentile including Biology.
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Portugal
| Typical offer | Diploma de Ensino Secundario normally with an overall mark between 16/20 and 17/20. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Romania
| Typical offer | Diploma de Bacalaureat with an overall average between 8.0 and 8.5 including a score of 8 in Biology. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Russia
| Typical offer | Applicants who have good grades in the Attestat o Srednem Obrazovami (Certificate of Secondary Education) and who have successfully completed the first year of a Russian University degree, with a minimum GPA of 4.0, will be considered for admission to the first year of our bachelor’s degree courses. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics.
|
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Singapore
| Typical offer | A-levels, as well as certain certificates and diplomas. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Slovakia
| Typical offer | Pass Vysvedčenie o maturitnej skúške (Maturita) with an average grade above 2.0 from 4 subjects including Biology. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Slovenia
| Typical offer | Secondary School Leaving Diploma or Matura with at least 23 points overall. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
South Africa
| Typical offer | National Senior Certificate with very good grades. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Spain
| Typical offer | Spanish Título de Bachillerato (LOGSE) with an overall average result between 7.5 and 8.0. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Sri Lanka
| Typical offer | Sri Lankan A-levels. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Sweden
| Typical offer | Fullstandigt Slutbetyg/Högskoleförberedande Examen with a total of 2,500 credits to include B grades in the majority of subjects and to include grade B in Biology. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Switzerland
| Typical offer | Federal Maturity Certificate. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Turkey
| Typical offer | We'll consider students who have taken the Lise Diplomasi or Lise Bitirme, with a score of at least 4/5 or 80/100 in their final year, on a case by case basis for direct entry to year 1. Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
USA
| Typical offer | We look at your full profile taking into account everything you are studying, including the high school graduation diploma, Grade 12 GPA, SAT tests and/or ACT grades We are particularly interested in AP tests and would ideally like to see three good AP scores. Advanced Placement Tests with scores of between 5,4,4 to 4,4,4 in three subjects. If you have taken the SAT reasoning tests we'd normally expect a combined score of at least 1300. If you've taken the ACT we'd expect to see a composite score of at least 26.
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in Biology with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
My country is not listed
If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us
English language requirements
IELTS (Academic)
6.0 overall, including at least 5.5 in each component
Check your IELTS qualification meets all of our language requirements
Other English language requirements
Proficiency tests
Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)
169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill
Duolingo English test
105 overall, with no component score below 90
Check your Duolingo English test qualification meets all of our language requirements
Pearson (PTE Academic)
59 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills.
Check your Pearson (PTE Academic) qualification meets all of our language requirements
TOEFL (iBT)
80 overall, including at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, 17 in Writing.
Check your TOEFL qualification meets all of our language requirements
Find out more about TOEFL (iBT).
The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.
English language qualifications
AS/A-level (GCE)
Grade C or above in English Language.
Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English
GCE O-level
Grade C or above in English.
Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
GCSE or IGCSE
Grade C or above in English as a First Language (grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).
Grade B or above in English as a Second Language
Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate
If awarded before 1993: grades 1-6 in English language.
If awarded between 1993 and 2005: grades A-D in English language.
Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.
Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)
The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only: 70%
Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English: 70% or Grade 3
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)
English A or English B at grade 5 or above.
Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education
Grades A – C in English
Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 119/GCE O-level
If taken before the end of 2008: grades 1-5 in English Language.
If taken from 2009 onwards: grade C or above in English Language.
The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).
West African Senior School Certificate
Grades 1-6 in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).
Country exceptions
Select to see the list of exempt English-speaking countries
If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirements. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.
You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.
Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.
List of exempt countries
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada**
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United Kingdom
- USA
** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.
Admissions information for applicants
| Transfers into Year 2 | Yes. Find out more about transferring into Year 2 of this course. We don’t accept transfers into the third or final year. |
|---|
If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us
For details on any additional costs, check out the Fees and scholarships section.
Don’t meet our entry requirements?
If you don't meet our entry requirements, we recommend our in-house Foundation Year course to prepare you for Year 1 of your chosen degree:
If you don't have the required language skills for this course you could consider the International Study Centre. The ISC offers a range of foundation courses in combination with English language teaching.
Modules
This is a single-honours course, allowing you to focus in depth on your core subject.
Find out about our types of undergraduate degrees, their structure, modules and credits
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2023/24. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to COVID-19, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let our applicants know of material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown below.
Autumn teaching
Core modules
- Cells, Organisms and Systems
- Skills Ethics and Society
Options
- Physiology and Disease
- The Natural World
Spring teaching
Core modules
- Biodiversity and Ecology
- Neuroscience and Behaviour
- Research Methods in Biology, Ecology and Zoology
Options
- Cell and Molecular Biology
- Environmental management and Sustainable Development
- Survival Ecology Field Course
To ensure we offer the best possible experience, this course is currently being updated. The information and modules shown may change for students starting this course in September 2023. We’ll update this information as soon as we can.
Explore modules from other subjects as part of your course
At Sussex, you can choose to customise your course to build the sort of degree that will give you the knowledge, skills and experience that could take you in any direction you choose.
As part of this degree, you can explore subjects that are different to your course through electives and pathways that complement your main subject. Exploring different disciplines in your first two years of study is an opportunity for you to enrich your learning experience.
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2023/24. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to COVID-19, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let our applicants know of material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown below.
Autumn teaching
Core modules
- Animals in their World: from Physiology to Behaviour
- Conservation Biology
- Research and Professional Skills 1: Zoology and Ecology
Options
- Human Genetics and Genomics
- Principles of Neuronal Function
- Upland Ecology Field Course
Spring teaching
Core modules
- Evolution, Behaviour and Comparative Physiology 1
- Population and Community Ecology
- Research and Professional Skills 2: Zoology and Ecology
Options
- Conservation Ecology Field Course
- Developmental Biology
- Mediterranean Ecology and Behaviour Field Course
- Neural Circuits
To ensure we offer the best possible experience, this course is currently being updated. The information and modules shown may change for students starting this course in September 2023. We’ll update this information as soon as we can.
Explore modules from other subjects as part of your course
At Sussex, you can choose to customise your course to build the sort of degree that will give you the knowledge, skills and experience that could take you in any direction you choose.
As part of this degree, you can explore subjects that are different to your course through electives and pathways that complement your main subject. Exploring different disciplines in your first two years of study is an opportunity for you to enrich your learning experience.
Study abroad (optional)
Apply to study abroad – you’ll develop an international perspective and gain an edge when it comes to your career. Find out where your course could take you
Placement (optional)
To help you gain experience and increase your employability, you can apply for an optional placement as part of your course. You’ll be responsible for applying for and securing your placement. Our dedicated careers team can provide you with information and advice. If you’re successful in obtaining a placement, this will form part of your course.
Find out more about placements and internships
Please note: If you’re receiving – or applying for – USA federal Direct Loan funds, you can’t transfer to the version of your course with an optional study abroad period in any country or optional placement in the USA if the number of credits for the placement/internship exceeds 25% of the total credits for your course. Find out more about American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2023/24. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to COVID-19, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let our applicants know of material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown below.
Autumn and spring teaching
Core module
- Life Science Bioscience Third-Year Research Project
Autumn teaching
Options
- Advanced Topics in Conservation
- Behavioural Ecology
- Communicating STEM for Life Sciences
- Field Course
- Palaeozoology
- Programming for Life Sciences
- Regulating Gene Expression
Spring teaching
Options
- Advanced Animal Behaviour
- Conservation in Practice
- Evolutionary Ecology
- Field Course
- Genomics and Bioinformatics
- Sensory Function and Computation
To ensure we offer the best possible experience, this course is currently being updated. The information and modules shown may change for students starting this course in September 2023. We’ll update this information as soon as we can.
Our staff
Zoology is exciting – our courses are designed for you to experience the subject in all its glory and to give you the tools to take the next steps in your career.”Professor Bill Hughes
Professor of Evolutionary Biology
Fees
Fees are not yet set for the academic year 2023/24 – please check back in September 2022. Note that your fees, once they’re set, may be subject to an increase on an annual basis.
Find out about typical living costs for studying at Sussex
Find out about our terms and conditions
Scholarships
Details of our scholarships are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2023/24.
Careers
Your future career
While studying Zoology, you’ll develop many new skills, preparing you for a fieldwork-based career. You'll also graduate with a range of transferable skills, including teamwork, good communication and analysis – making you highly employable.
With your Zoology degree you can start a career in:
- agriculture, environmental, conservational and ecological management
- nature documentaries and photography
- zoos and wildlife park management.
You could also go on to teaching, or research in academia or industry.
Working while you study
Our Careers and Employability Centre can help you find part-time work while you study. Find out more about career development and part-time work