best uk universities for zoology

Hello all, I have joined only to ask this question so my apologies if it’s posted in the wrong place.
I’m looking to study zoology at university and desperately need some guidance from current zoology students on which university best suits my interests because it is driving me a little crazy.
I would prefer a more hands-on course than a research based one, one with fieldwork, placements, etc. I’m not really bothered by the prestige of the university, only that it delivers a good quality of education. Also, do they have the opportunity for a year abroad or in industry?
I enjoy aquatic environments both coastal and inland so universities located near and/or involved in their study are a bonus, however, I have no specific field of study that I would like to specialise in.
Bangor university and Aberystwyth university are obvious choices being on the coast so any insight into the courses from any current or previous students is much appreciated.
I would also like to hear from any zoology students who studied at Worcester university, is it research or experience orientated? How’s the quality of education?
Any help is greatly appreciated, thanks.

Hi, it's great to hear you are thinking of studying zoology. I am currently studying zoology at the University of Southampton, and I thought I would share my experience.
In terms of fieldwork, there is a week long residential in Exmoor in first year, where you learn key fieldwork skills and get to learn more from the field studies council staff. In second year there is also a compulsory for zoology (so free) field trip module to Bolonia, Spain. This was a really great experience and included some more independent field research. There are also smaller, day long field trips depending on which modules you pick, for example trips to Marwell and the New Forest.
There are also opportunities to pick some marine biology or environmental science modules which can broaden the opportunities available to you. I would say some of the modules in first year overlap with biomed / biochem students, so can feel a little less zoology focussed. In second and third year however, there is great options for modules.
Southampton itself is a nice, green campus with lots of study spaces and cafes within the campus.
Please let me know if you have any other questions!
Rachel (UoS student ambassador)

Thanks for replying, I saw Southampton come up a lot when looking into universities. What’re the facilities like there? For example I hear Bangor has boats and Aberdeen(?) has a zoological museum.
How is it applying for accommodation, are shortages a problem?

If you choose marine biology, you will be based at NOCS (national oceanography centre) and be on boats to do research, as I do zoology I haven't done any boat work and have only been based at highfield campus - it's up to you what you think you would like to focus on. Southampton is a Russel group and has great lecturers that do their own research and are very engaging (I find).
The housing is easy in Southampton, no shortage like in some other places - there is a great range of student accomodation in first year that come with some nice perks like free washing and a free bus pass for the year. When moving into student housing there are lots of houses of different sizes available.