30 Best Zoology Universities UK: 2025 World University Ranking for the Best Universities to Study Zoology Courses for Indian Students

Choosing the right university can impact a student’s future in ways that they cannot even begin to imagine.

Indian students who are enthusiastic about the natural world should know that the UK has the most in-depth and comprehensive zoology courses, supported by impressive facilities and world-class research. 

As one of the strongest zoology departments in the world, UK universities can provide them with an unrivaled experience in zoological sciences, ecology, marine biology, biodiversity, and exposure with nature in terms of both academic courses, and their unique research programs.

In this article, we have compiled a list & guide of the best zoology universities in the UK, based on the 2025 world university rankings.

From universities in northern England to the South West, these universities not only have an excellent academic reputation, but they also provide strong placements and excellent practical opportunities in biological sciences.

Now it is time to dive in and find the best undergraduate zoology themed degree courses in the UK for international students. 

Why Study Zoology Courses in UK Universities?

Fun fact: Charles Darwin studied in the UK before changing the world with his theories on evolution.

That same legacy of discovery and scientific study continues today at top zoology universities to study in UK.

• UK universities offer globally recognised undergraduate zoology degrees that merge cell biology, biochemistry, and physiology.
• Access to diverse ecosystems from the North Sea to Yorkshire, ideal for field-based practical learning.
• Biodiversity and ecology are the focal points, with a multidisciplinary context encompassing multidisciplinary research streams including, but not limited to, biomedical and related disciplines.

Comparison Table: Advantages of Studying Zoology in the UK

Highest Score: What is a GMAT Max Score and GMAT Percentile?

It is interesting to note that while a GMAT score is not often required in zoology, the knowledge of global assessment benchmarks such as GMAT will help students compare academic requirements.

The GMAT maximum score is 800, and percentiles give us an understanding of where a student stands on a global level. 

Below is a summary of the top 30 UK universities for zoology, plus their relevant characteristics, admission requirements (entrance exams like IELTS, TOEFL, ACT, SAT, GRE, GMAT if applicable), and application documents (letter of recommendation, personal statement, or resume).

1. University of Bristol

The University of Bristol in south west England provides a vibrant zoology degree which explores animal behaviour and ecology.

The entry requirements are reasonable, which include an IELTS or TOEFL, a strong GPA and a well thought out statement of purpose. Students need to submit a personal statement, CV and Academic Transcript.

2. University of Exeter

This university in south west England offers undergraduate zoology courses which focus on marine biology and conservation. The university accepts IELTS, SAT or ACT scores. Students will need a letter of recommendation, SOP, a transcript and CV.

3. University of Lincoln

Situated in east midlands, the University of Lincoln focuses on biodiversity and zoological research. IELTS or TOEFL is required. Entry documents include a personal statement, recommendation letter, and academic transcript.

4. Nottingham Trent University

This east midlands university offers zoology programs with practical learning opportunities in local ecosystems. IELTS and GPA are essential. SOP and resume also form part of the entry package.

5. University of Chester

Chester’s zoology degree in north west England seamlessly combines traditional coursework with cell biology and fieldwork. SAT or ACT accepted. Application requires transcripts, letter of recommendation, and statement of purpose.

6. University of Hull

Hull is an easterly tributary of the Humber River located in east Yorkshire. All programs are marine biology focused. Students will need an IELTS or a TOEFL. Students submit a CV, a transcript, a statement of purpose, and a letter of reference.

7. University of Reading

University of Reading is located in south east England. Programs available are focused in biomedical sciences and ecology. Some entry requirements are IELTS and GPA. Students must also submit a transcript, statement of purpose, and personal statement.

8. University of Southampton

Known for strong biological sciences, this south east university offers top undergraduate zoology degree courses. GRE, IELTS, or TOEFL may be required. Application includes SOP, LOR, and resume.

9. University of Plymouth

With coastal advantages, Plymouth has a strong marine biology focus. IELTS will be required. Apply with a personal statement, transcript, and similarity with recommendation letters.

10. University of Sussex

Located in the south east of England, Sussex specializes in delivery programs that provide more details on dealing with biodiversity and ecosystems dynamics. Entry requirements will include IELTS or TOEFL. Application documents can include SOP, resume and transcript.

11. University of Leeds

Leeds is another strong performer in northern England. Leeds includes zoology components along with biomedical sciences. Entry criteria can involve testing such as the IELTS or ACT. GPA, transcript and SOP will be needed. 

12. Newcastle University

Newcastle is in the north east of England and delivers various courses that reflect biodiversity, cell biology and conservation in general. Entry requires IELTS and a transcript. Personal statement and LOR are also essential.

13. University of Liverpool

This north west university emphasizes biomedical and zoological integration. TOEFL or IELTS needed. Entry includes SOP, LOR, and resume.

14. Liverpool John Moores University

Located in north west England, it focuses on zoologist training and ecosystem studies. IELTS required. SOP and recommendation letter form part of the application.

15. University of Sheffield

Based in Yorkshire, University of Sheffield combines studies on ecology with physiology. You can qualify for entry into a zoology degree on either IELTS or SAT scores. Required paperwork includes: resume; statement of purpose, transcripts.

16. University of East London

Here you will find a leading practical approach to zoology degrees in east London, available to students. You will need an IELTS. Required documents for entry paperwork include a statement of purpose, resume, and transcripts.

17. University of Gloucestershire

A university based in the west midlands and has a clear focus on the areas of biodiversity and conservation. You will need IELTS and GPA. Required docs: statement of purpose, Letter of Reference).

18. University of Manchester

University of Manchester is in the top universities league table and they include themes in ecology, cell biology and biomedical in their coursework. IELTS or GRE will be required. The paperwork required is a resume, personal statement, and academic transcripts.

19. University of Bedfordshire

In south east England, this university emphasizes practical learning in zoology. IELTS and transcript required. SOP and LOR must be submitted.

20. Teesside University

Located in north east England, Teesside is ideal for marine biology enthusiasts. IELTS or TOEFL required. Entry includes resume, personal statement, and transcripts.

21. Edge Hill University

Found in north west England, it focuses on undergraduate zoology courses tied to conservation and physiology. IELTS and GPA needed. Documents: SOP, transcript, LOR.

22. University of the West of England

This south west England institution offers strong biomedical and ecology modules. IELTS or GRE required. SOP, resume, and LOR are must-haves.

23. University of Birmingham

A Russell Group member in west midlands, it offers leading zoological studies. IELTS and high GPA needed. Entry includes SOP, LOR, transcript.

24. Coventry University

Known for student support and practical zoology degrees in west midlands. IELTS, SAT or ACT accepted. SOP, personal statement, and resume needed.

25. The University of Brighton

The University of Brighton in south east England offers excellent hands-on fieldwork in marine biology and biodiversity. IELTS or TOEFL is required. An SOP and transcripts are also mandatory.

26. University of Aberdeen

Based in northern Scotland, the university offers unique marine ecosystem research. IELTS or SAT scores required. SOP, resume, transcript needed.

27. University of Leicester

Leicester provides a strong biomedical and conservation-oriented curriculum. IELTS, ACT, or TOEFL required. Entry includes SOP, LOR, transcript.

28. University of Portsmouth

Located in south east England, Portsmouth focuses on zoological and biodiversity study. IELTS needed. Resume, SOP, and academic transcript form the application.

29. Loughborough University

Loughborough University is in east midlands, which is an integrated location for biology and biomedical science practice. IELTS and GPA are needed. Application includes a statement of purpose, letter of reference, and transcript.

30. Bangor University

Located near the North Sea, Bangor is renowned for marine biology and conservation. IELTS needed. Entry documents include personal statement, resume, and transcript.

How to Get Into the Top Zoology Universities?

Did you know? More than a thousand students every year apply to zoology courses in the UK, and only the very best students get a place.

• Keep good grades and meet minimum entry standards, i.e. minimum IELTS/TOEFL, ACT scores etc.
• Create high quality documents: resume, personal statement, statement of purpose
• Ask for strong letters of reference from your biology or ecology professors.

Comparison table of relevant admission metrics:

Admission Requirements, Tuition Fees, and Scholarships at the Top Zoology and Veterinary Universities

Fun fact: Many UK universities offer partial to full scholarships for international students pursuing undergraduate zoology degrees.

• Most universities require IELTS or TOEFL, along with SOP, LOR, transcripts, and a resume.
• Tuition fees vary between £14,000 and £25,000 annually for international students.
• Scholarships are merit-based and may cover 10% to 100% of tuition.

Table: Tuition Fees, Scholarships, and Requirements

Conclusion

From ecology to marine biology, UK universities offer a rich zoological education tailored for passionate Indian students. These top 30 institutions provide ideal opportunities for practical learning, strong student support, and high career placements.

Ready to study zoology in the UK? Let Ambitio help you ace every step—from SOPs to scholarships and beyond!

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