Genetics

Genetics is the study of the inherited differences between individuals. An understanding of inheritance is central to biology, medicine and biotechnology.

Why Aberdeen?

Genetics allows us to understand normal events such as development, growth and ageing in terms of the underlying molecular machinery of the cell and helps explain why these processes go wrong in disease.

• Excellent staff and teaching facilities
• Innovative and flexible teaching allowing the student to follow special interests
• Opportunities for gaining (paid) experience in industry
• Strong emphasis on medical and human genetics
• Training provided in both specialist and employment-related skills

Programmes

Study Abroad

Study abroad information

The opportunity to take Enhanced Study options as part of your degree and participate in co-curricular activities. See www.abdn.ac.uk/thedifference for more information.

First Year

Students take courses in Chemistry and Biology plus additional courses selected from the wide range available from science and other areas.

Second Year

Courses introduce Animal, Plant and Microbial Genetics. The basic principles of gene action and expression are dealt with at the molecular, cellular and population levels, including Population Genetics and Evolution. The study of Human Genetics is included, together with the Genetic Basis of Modern Biotechnology. The second year curriculum also includes two courses devoted to development of Foundation and Research Skills in the Life Sciences. Students have a choice of other science courses, and are encouraged to include Biochemistry and Cell Biology courses among them.

Third Year

Topics covered include the Mechanisms of Gene and Chromosome Mutation and the Origins of Spontaneous Mutations; Molecular and Microscopic Study of Chromosomes; The Behaviour of Genes in Populations; Developmental Genetics; Molecular Genetics in Bacteria, Viruses and Eukaryotes; Molecular Biology of Plants; Modern DNA-Based Genetic Analysis, Diagnosis, Therapy and Ecological Genetics; Environmental Impacts on Genetic Stability and Health and The Evolution of Immune and Defence Mechanisms Against Environmental Insult.

Fourth Year (Honours)

All students begin their Honours year by attending a three-day reading party. An important feature of the Honours course is a ten-week research project, carried out in research laboratories within the School of Medical Sciences or in local research institutes. This project provides the opportunity to carry out original research, using state-of-the-art technology alongside postgraduate and postdoctoral staff.

Variations

For degrees with Industrial Placement the year in industry is taken between third and fourth year in an appropriate industrial laboratory.

Teaching and Assessment

In the early years, teaching involves attendance at lectures, practicals and tutorials. In the later years a rather greater proportion of the students’ time is taken up in private study, laboratory or library work.

Careers

Many of our graduates follow their degree with PhD research. Others move into positions in hospital research, diagnostic laboratories and research institutes. Major employers of Genetics graduates include the scientific civil service, pharmaceutical, food, fermentation and related industries. A Genetics degree is also a starting point for a career outside science, in management, intellectual property or a wide range of other professions.

Finding your direction

There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success.  The Careers Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us – from first to final year – and beyond.

• More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen.
• More information on the Careers Service.
• More information on careers prospects and employability with a degree in Genetics.

Entrance Requirements

SQA Highers - BBBB*
A Levels - BBB*
IB - 30 points, 5 at HL*
ILC - BBBB
*Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/Science subjects.

Advanced Entry - Advanced Highers ABB or A Levels ABB, Or IB 34 points (6 at HL) including Biology and Chemistry, one of which must be at A-grade.

For further details of entrance requirements click here

Please click on the links below to find out more information on funding in your area.

• Scotland and EU (Excluding England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• Rest of UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• International
• Scholarships

Related Links

• Scholarships
• Entrance Scholarships
• Funding Database
• England Wales and Northern Ireland Finance Guide