This course provides an education and training in genetics with particular emphasis on its application to medicine.

Students taking this course are affiliated to the Department of Genetics, on of the largest genetics departments in the country with an excellent international reputation for research in a broad range of fields including human and medical genetics.

Course Structure

First Year

In the first year, in addition to introductory medical genetics, you will take modules covering core aspects of biochemistry, physiology and microbiology that provide an important foundation. You will also take key skills modules including ICT and numeracy.

Second Year

In the second year, core modules in genetics constitute two thirds of the degree programme. These modules will enable you to extend your knowledge of genetics and, through modern molecular biological and bioinformatic approaches, to understand how the human genome is organised and how genes are expressed and regulated in cells, tissues and during the development of an organism. Optional modules will give you the opportunity to specialise.

Final Year

In the final year, half the programme consists of modules in Human Genetics and Medical Genetics. A third module is chosen from a selection of genetics modules. The fourth module is selected from Biological Sciences options.

You will also undertake a research project carried out in an active research laboratory in the University or associated clinical department. This is an exciting introduction to sophisticated research and affords the opportunity to work in collaboration with scientists in the field. An alternative option is to choose a library-based research project. Either will provide exciting opportunities for study in the rapidly expanding field of medical genetics.

View course modules