Course Catalogue

The aims of the Zoology Programme are to: Provide a defined academic programme with clear learning outcomes which allows students to develop their knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles of zoology by means of diverse learning and teaching methods and assessment strategies. Develop effective laboratory and field skills appropriate to the study of zoology and an understanding of how they can be applied to research. Enhance graduate employability by producing graduates with the knowledge, skills and confidence required to gain careers in the biosciences or other areas that demand well developed critical thinking, professional practical, analytical and transferable skills. Encourage students to engage with the development of employability skills (e.g. information and communication technology, team working, written and oral communication, time management, planning, data collection and presentation) and develop a career plan. Provide opportunities for development of creativity and innovation with reference to aspects of Zoology. Promote an ethos of continuing professional development, lifelong learning and an appreciation of how science impacts on society. In addition to the aims for the main target award, the sandwich programme aims to provide students with an extended period of work experience at an approved partner that will complement their programme of study at LJMU. This will give the students the opportunity to develop professional skills relevant to their programme of study, as well as attitude and behaviours necessary for employment in a diverse and changing environment.

Knowledge and understanding is promoted through a diversity of learning and teaching methods and assessment strategies. Learning and teaching methods include: lectures; tutorials; laboratory work; fieldwork; workshops; seminars; problem-based learning session; work-related learning and independent study. Knowledge and understanding are assessed in a variety of ways including: written examinations; online tests; laboratory and fieldwork reports; essays and critical reviews; data analysis and interpretation exercises; seminar and poster presentations. Intellectual skills, e.g.: applying theories and concepts; analysing and synthesising information critically; integrating evidence; applying knowledge and recognition of moral and ethical issues are developed in all modules with an increasing emphasis through the levels of the programme and culminate in the level 6 Research Project. A range of examination questions (e.g. essays, interpretative questions) and a wide variety of coursework including: laboratory and fieldwork reports; critical reviews; data analysis and interpretation exercises; seminar and poster presentations, assess ability for these intellectual skills. Practical and professional skills are taught during laboratory sessions, fieldwork and workshops. Core principles and minimum standards of practical work are introduced at level 4, particularly in the Practical Skills for Zoology module which cannot be passed without core practical competencies being met. Practical skills are further developed through levels 5 & 6 where more specialist skills are also introduced. The Research Project and Work-based Learning modules at level 6 are opportunities for students to apply these skills independently and in a workplace setting. Practical and professional skills are assessed through practical tests, skills portfolios, laboratory and fieldwork reports (including the level 6 Research Project report). Transferable and key skills are inherent within the programme, but specifically they are taught in core modules at all levels (Practical Skills for Zoology and Fundamentals of Scientific Research at level 4; Research Skills & Employability at level 5; Research Project at level 6). These transferable and key skills are assessed through coursework at all levels, in all modules.

Graduate Skills are taught and practised within a wide range of modules and assessed within the core modules at: Level 4 Fundamentals of Scientific Research and Practical Skills for Zoology; Level 5 Research Skills & Employability and Comparative Animal Physiology; Level 6 Research Project and Current Topics in Zoology. Work-related learning opportunities are also available through the routes of employer seminars, guest lectures/workshops and meeting professionals in animal-related roles during fieldwork. There are options for residential field work at level 5 and 6. The Work-based Learning placement (135 hrs) and the Sandwich placement (12 months) offer the opportunity for students to gain work experience with a relevant professional organisation. Students are supported by the Professional Training Tutor who is responsible for advertising placements and promoting vocational training to students. These opportunities may be in the UK or abroad.