新英格蘭大學(xué)

Zoology is the science of studying and understanding animals living on land, in freshwater or in the sea. It is the branch of biology that covers behaviour, classification, evolution, conservation, distribution, ecology and natural history, but also includes biochemistry and physiology, palaeontology, molecular biology and genetics, and the structure and function of animals.

Zoology students are able to undertake studies in a range of zoological disciplines including:

• animal behaviour
• animal ecology
• environmental and comparative physiology
• entomology
• parasitology
• freshwater ecology

This degree will focus on a wide range of issues dealing with the biology of animals. It will include material on the internal functioning of animals (physiology) and the role of animals in their environment (ecology).

A fourth Honours year is available to students with an above average academic record. Study is undertaken in one of the disciplines chosen for specialisation leading to the award of Bachelor of Science with Honours. BSc(Hons) graduates who achieve the appropriate level of Honours are eligible to apply to enrol for a research Master degree or the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Career Opportunities

Zoologists are employed by research institutions, CSIRO, local state and federal government agencies, museums, national parks, marine parks, zoological gardens, Antarctic research stations, and as teachers in primary and secondary school among others. Zoologists also are also employed in media organisations (radio, television, social media and print), consultancy firms, aquaculture and biotechnology and animal breeding businesses.

Course Aims

The aim of this course is to teach students about all aspects of the biology of animals - including structure, function, anatomy, physiology, ecology, behaviour and evolution.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

• demonstrate a coherent understanding of zoology by articulating the methods of zoology, explaining why current zoological knowledge is both contestable and testable by further inquiry, and explaining the role and relevance of zoology in society;
• exhibit depth and breadth of knowledge of zoology by demonstrating well-developed knowledge in at least one disciplinary area and knowledge in at least one other disciplinary area;
• critically analyse and solve zoological problems by gathering, synthesising and critically evaluating information from a range of sources, designing and planning a scientific project, selecting and applying practical and/or theoretical techniques or tools in order to conduct a scientific project, and collecting, accurately recording, analysing, interpreting and drawing conclusions from scientific data;
• be effective communicators of zoology by communicating zoological results, information or arguments, to a range of audiences, for a range of purposes, and using a variety of modes; and
• be accountable for their own learning and zoological work by being independent and self-directed learners, working effectively, responsibly and safely in an individual or team context, and demonstrating knowledge of the regulatory frameworks relevant to their disciplinary area and personally practising ethical conduct.