University of Exeter United Kingdom

BSc Animal Behaviour

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BSc Animal Behaviour at the University of Exeter offers you a unique opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of animal actions, exploring the 'how' and 'why' behind behaviours in wild, domestic, and captive species. You will investigate how current and past environments, ecology, and underlying gene-environment interactions shape behaviour, and understand the variation observed among individuals and species. This undergraduate degree is ideal for those passionate about animal welfare, conservation, and the intricate evolutionary forces driving behaviour, providing a strong foundation in ecology, genetics, and data analysis.

This full-time, on-campus degree is studied over three years, integrating theoretical knowledge with extensive practical experience. You will engage with modules covering topics such as ecology, evolution, and biological data analysis, alongside compulsory field courses in diverse UK and international locations. In your final year, you will undertake a significant research project, allowing you to explore a specific area of animal behaviour in depth. Upon graduation, you will be equipped with analytical skills and a deep understanding of animal behaviour, preparing you for careers in wildlife conservation, animal welfare organisations, research, and related scientific fields.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc Animal Behaviour program offers a comprehensive exploration of animal life, starting with foundational concepts in ecology, evolution, and genetics. Students will engage in extensive fieldwork across diverse global locations, from Scotland to Costa Rica, to study animal behavior in natural settings. The curriculum culminates in a research project, allowing for in-depth investigation into specialized areas of animal behavior, ecology, and conservation.

1 Year 1

Ecology and Conservation Compulsory
Animal Diversity Compulsory
Evolution and Genetics Compulsory
Life Processes Optional

2 Year 2

Analysis of Biological Data Compulsory
Scotland Field Course Compulsory
Biosciences Penryn Virtual Field Course Compulsory
Scillies St Agnes Field Course Compulsory
Scillies St Mary's Field Course Compulsory
Behavioural Ecology Compulsory
Population and Community Ecology Optional
Wildlife Disease Optional
Introduction to Ecological Consultancy Optional
Evolutionary Ecology Optional
Conservation Science Optional
Biology and Ecology of Marine Vertebrates Optional
Wildlife Exploitation Optional
GIS for Wildlife Mapping Optional
Adaptations to Life on Earth Optional

3 Year 3

Research Project Compulsory
Ecology, Behaviour, and Conservation in Wild Places: The forests and oceans of Yukon and Alaska Compulsory
Azores Field Course Compulsory
Northern Spain Field Course Compulsory
Tropical Biodiversity and Conservation: Costa Rica Field Course Compulsory
Alpine Ecology Field Course Compulsory
Pyrenees Field Trip Compulsory
Global Research Skills Virtual Field Course Optional
Literature Review in Evolution and Ecology Optional
Preparing to Graduate Compulsory
Living in Groups Optional
Sensory Ecology Optional
Science in Society Optional
Animal Life Histories Optional
Ecological Responses to Climate Change Optional
Evolutionary Biology of Health and Disease Optional
Animal Migration Optional
Animal Cognition Optional
Primate Biology and Conservation Optional
The Complexity of Human Societies Optional
Human Behavioural Ecology Optional
Literature Review in Evolution and Ecology Optional
Major Transitions in Evolutionary History Optional
Global Research Skills Virtual Field Course Optional
The Genome: Applications, Evolution and Ecology Optional
Symbiosis in Marine Systems Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,173.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 126,519.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on Penryn Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Animation & Visual EffectsBanking & Financial ServicesBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesDrug Discovery & ResearchLive Events & ConcertsMedical Research & Clinical TrialsOil & Gas Exploration & ProductionSpecial & Inclusive EducationTheme Parks & LeisureUrban Mobility & Smart Transport

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon

Amgen

AstraZeneca

Deloitte

Environment Agency

GSK

John Lewis Group

NHS

Why Study BSc Animal Behaviour at University of Exeter

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Exeter in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc Animal Behaviour at University of Exeter

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for degree courses.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English language proficiency is required for admission. Acceptable tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE with specific scoring criteria across each.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Animal Behaviourists, Wildlife Technicians, Conservation Officers, Research Assistants, and Zoo Educators.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program explores animal behavior in wild, domestic, and captive settings. You'll engage in fieldwork and learn how ecology and genetics influence behavior.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc Animal Behaviour program has two intake months: January and September. Prospective students can apply for either of these start dates.
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