Botany and Zoology

Long-tongued fly pollinator
Image by: Bruce Anderson

Why study Botany and Zoology?

The Department of Botany and Zoology is a leader in the field of biology and ecology, with a specific focus on the unique opportunities offered by Africa’s biodiversity. Our academics are world-recognised leaders in their fields, ranging across microbiology, plant sciences, marine science, molecular ecology, evolutionary biology and global change.  

Our programs are designed to deepen our understanding of Africa’s incredible marine and terrestrial ecosystems, preserve them and promote sustainable development. By working together, we aim to investigate and tackle significant challenges, such as managing invasive species, informing conservation and management programmes, and supporting community-based biodiversity initiatives. 

“We aim to advance the understanding of biodiversity, ecology, and evolution through innovative research and teaching. By exploring the complex interactions between organisms and their environments, we contribute to sustainable solutions for global and local environmental challenges.”

Our Programmes

The BSc in Biodiversity and Ecology offers training in Ecology, Biodiversity, Climate and Global Change, and Microbiology. It focuses on the diversity, origin and function of organisms in relation to their environment and provides a conceptual understanding of ecology, evolution, animal and plant forms and functions, biological changes on a global scale (climate change, invasive species, pollution and anthropogenic impacts), and remediation practices and application. Both terrestrial and marine concepts are covered

Students have a choice between three focal areas, all leading to a BSc Hons in Biodiversity and Ecology, followed by an MSc and PhD in Botany or Zoology:

  • Climate Change Ecology
  • Plant and Animal Biodiversity
  • Plants and Microbes

BSc Biodiversity and Ecology (Focal area: Climate Change Ecology)

The study of global change with a biological perspective brings together historical and current evidence for such change and summarises its main drivers. Topics include global climate change, human-made drivers such as pollution, invasion biology, land-use and ecosystem change. Data at different spatial and temporal scales and at different levels of biological organization are covered (from species to communities and ecosystems, and from micro to macroscales), highlighting the technologies and numerical techniques used to study these processes.
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BSc Biodiversity and Ecology (Focal area: Plant and Animal Biodiversity)

This focal area aims to develop an understanding of the diversity, origin, and function of organisms in relation to the environment and how interactions between and within species evolved. This includes animals and plants on land, in fresh water, coastlines and the oceans. Studying plant and animal biodiversity within a molecular context is essential for understanding the ecological relationships that sustain ecosystems and support human well-being. Biodiversity research contributes to conservation, habitat protection, and addressing global challenges such as climate change, food security, and disease prevention.
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BSc Biodiversity and Ecology (Focal Area: Plants and Microbes)

Microbiology forms an intrinsic part of climate and global change studies since impacts on micro-organisms will influence macro-organisms. Understanding and predicting impacts on microbes are further enhanced by understanding principles of ecology and evolution, and the diversity and physiology of plants. This combination of modules will provide you with valuable skills to pursue cross-cutting careers and research in botany, microbiology, and plant pathology in a changing global context.
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Our postgraduate programmes

BSc Hons in Biodiversity and Ecology

The BSc Hons in Biodiversity and Ecology equips students with advanced research skills, theoretical knowledge and practical expertise in biological sciences. This one-year programme prepares graduates for postgraduate study or diverse scientific careers in biodiversity and ecology.
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MSc in Botany or Zoology

The MSc in Botany or Zoology offers specialised research opportunities for graduates with a BSc Honours degree. Admission requires at least 65% in Honours and supervisor acceptance. Focus areas include advanced study and innovative research in biological sciences.
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PhD in Botany or Zoology

The PhD in Botany or Zoology is a research-intensive programme for MSc graduates in biological sciences. Admission requires supervisor approval and departmental endorsement. Students engage in advanced research, contributing to scientific knowledge and innovation within their chosen field.
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Upcoming Events

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Physiological Sciences
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Contact us

Phone: +27 21 808-3236
E-mail: [email protected]

Physical address
Natural Sciences building
Merriman Avenue
Stellenbosch