Explore the UK’s top zoology universities where science meets adventure. From cutting-edge research to vibrant student life, find your perfect fit to study animals, ecosystems, and conservation in 2026.
Best Universities for Zoology: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Bristol | 90 | 80 |
| 2 Silver | University of Edinburgh | 89 | 83 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Glasgow | 87 | 79 |
| 4 | University of Aberdeen | 85 | 75 |
| 5 | University of Manchester | 88 | 77 |
| 6 | University of Liverpool | 86 | 76 |
| 7 | University of Nottingham | 85 | 74 |
| 8 | University of York | 83 | 73 |
| 9 | University of Sheffield | 84 | 75 |
| 10 | University of Sussex | 82 | 78 |
1. University of Bristol Gold
2. University of Edinburgh Silver
3. University of Glasgow Bronze
4. University of Aberdeen
5. University of Manchester
6. University of Liverpool
7. University of Nottingham
8. University of York
9. University of Sheffield
10. University of Sussex
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Zoology rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Explore the UK’s top zoology universities where science meets adventure. From cutting-edge research to vibrant student life, find your perfect fit to study animals, ecosystems, and conservation in 2026.
Top-Ranked Zoology Universities Explained
University of Bristol
Leading research in animal biology, excellent graduate prospects, and strong fieldwork opportunities.
University of Edinburgh
Prestigious programs with a focus on ecology, hands-on learning, and supportive campus community.
University of Glasgow
Well-rounded courses blending theory and practice, affordable living, and solid student satisfaction.
University of Aberdeen
Specialist facilities for marine and freshwater biology, plus great graduate employability rates.
University of Manchester
Diverse modules, cutting-edge research projects, and a lively student social scene.
University of Liverpool
Strong industry links, excellent lab resources, and vibrant campus life.
University of Nottingham
Balanced focus on conservation science and animal behaviour, with good value for money.
University of York
High student satisfaction, strong teaching quality, and opportunities for fieldwork.
University of Sheffield
Access to great green spaces for research, growing sustainability initiatives, and active student societies.
University of Sussex
Interdisciplinary approach, emphasis on environmental impact, and a lively campus atmosphere.
Career Prospects After a Zoology Degree
Zoology grads find careers in conservation, wildlife management, research, education, and environmental consultancy. The demand for skilled professionals in biodiversity and sustainability is growing, making this degree a smart choice for future-proof job opportunities.
Zoology Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Average UCAS points range between 120 and 150 depending on the university. Biology and Chemistry at A-level or equivalents are typically required. Top Russell Group unis may expect higher grades and relevant science subjects.
Cheapest Cities to Study Zoology in the UK
Aberdeen, Sheffield, and Glasgow offer great cost-to-quality ratios for zoology students. Consider rent, food prices, and student discounts when choosing your city.
Best Zoology Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Edinburgh, Liverpool, and Nottingham rank highly for social activities and vibrant student unions. Use nightlife scores to pick a uni where you can balance studies and fun.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Glasgow, York, and Sussex stand out for mental health services and supportive campus communities. Check NSS scores and uni resources to ensure you’ll be well-supported.
Not Sure About Zoology? Consider These Alternatives
Biology, Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Veterinary Science — all with overlapping modules and diverse career paths.
Summary: Which Zoology Uni is Right for You?
Think about academic reputation, cost of living, social life, and career prospects. Bookmark your favourites and compare to find your perfect match.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Zoology
Top UK universities for Zoology include the University of Edinburgh, University of Bristol, and University of Cambridge, praised for excellent research and student satisfaction.
The University of Edinburgh frequently ranks highest for Zoology due to its cutting-edge research facilities and diverse course offerings.
Yes, a Zoology degree offers strong career prospects in conservation, research, environmental consultancy, and education, with good student satisfaction rates.
Most universities require Biology and Chemistry at A-level, with some recommending Maths or Physics. Always check specific course requirements before applying.
Career options include wildlife conservationist, research scientist, environmental consultant, zookeeper, and educator.
Demand is steady in conservation, research, and environmental sectors, especially for graduates with practical skills and field experience.
Starting salaries typically range from £20,000 to £28,000, increasing with experience and specialist roles.
Balancing fieldwork, lab work, and extensive theoretical study can be challenging but rewarding for those passionate about animals and ecosystems.
Graduates often find roles in conservation charities, research institutes, environmental agencies, zoos, and education.
Yes, Zoology is highly regarded for its scientific rigour and contribution to understanding biodiversity and conservation.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
