Bachelor
Through Deakin's Bachelor of Zoology and Animal Science, you will explore the social and economic impact that human activity has on animals and their ecosystems. Investigate how animals respond and adapt to changes in the environment, including climate change, with a strong focus on Australian fauna and its unique importance in the global environment. Apply the latest research techniques to test hypotheses in the real-world and develop the evidence-based decision-making skills valued by industry.
You will work with living subjects in the lab and field, giving you a first-hand understanding of the form and function of animals and the underlying mechanisms that influence their ecology and evolution. You will also learn broadly about how animals respond to changing environments over time. Best of all, your journey will be supported by teaching staff who share your passion for animals.
Interested in a career that cares for the future of our furry and feathered friends?
If you're fascinated by the way animals behave, adapt, evolve and survive, you're not alone. Animal enthusiasts choose Deakin to turn their passion into a rewarding career because of our research-informed teaching and practical approach to learning. This hands-on approach ensures you will develop the technical and practical expertise required to thrive in your career, as well as the communication, teamwork and critical-thinking skills to equip you for future roles in the field.
As you advance through the course, you will be exposed to many unique aspects of zoology. These include physiological and behavioural adaptations to environmental change, disease ecology, animal sensory neurobiology and behaviour, as well as ecological and conservation genetics. The wide range of core units will broaden your skill set, expanding your career options across the growing zoology and animal science field.
How you will learn is as important as what you will learn. Start preparing for your future career by undertaking a discipline-specific industry work placement. Study animals working alongside academic staff who aren't just teachers, but researchers at the forefront of their respective fields.
Employers value Deakin graduates' range of practical experience and evidence-based decision-making skills. You'll be well-placed to explore opportunities in areas including:
Graduates typically take on roles such as:
Further postgraduate studies, including research training either in Australia or overseas, can also lead to becoming a research scientist in a specific field, museum curator or even a university academic.
To complete the Bachelor of Zoology and Animal Science, students must attain 24 credit points, which must include the following:
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
18
Core units
6
Elective units
24
Total units
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the Recognition of prior learning system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.