Zoology with Primatology

Zoology with primatology combines a broad scientific education in animal biology with a focused specialism in the study of primates, the order of mammals to which humans belong. Zoology is the scientific study of animals in all their diversity: their physiology, anatomy, behaviour, ecology, evolution and conservation. Primatology applies that zoological framework to the study of our closest evolutionary relatives, examining primate behaviour, social organisation, cognition, ecology and conservation in ways that have both intrinsic scientific value and unique relevance to understanding human origins and behaviour.

At Bangor University, this three-year full-time programme, which is available with a foundation year for students who benefit from additional scientific preparation, gives you a thorough grounding in animal biology alongside specialist expertise in primatology. The foundation year is designed to build the biological and academic knowledge you need before entering degree-level study. In the main degree you will study animal physiology, ecology, evolution, conservation biology, behaviour and field research methods, alongside primate-specific content including primate taxonomy and evolution, primate social behaviour, cognition and communication, and the conservation challenges facing primate populations worldwide.

A sandwich year placement, a year abroad, and a work placement are all available, giving you significant opportunities to develop field research experience and to engage with primatological work in different international contexts.

You will develop strong practical skills in observation, data collection, experimental design and analysis, alongside the theoretical knowledge that underpins modern zoological and primatological research.

Graduates move into wildlife conservation, zoo and sanctuary management, research and field work, environmental consultancy, ecology, science communication, education, and government wildlife agencies. Postgraduate study in zoology, primatology, conservation biology, or related biological sciences is a natural pathway for those who want to pursue research careers.