Genetics BSc
University of Essex
About this program
Genetics BSc
Genetics is at the forefront of modern biology, driving progress in medicine and synthetic biology. Thanks to recent developments in genetic analysis and manipulation, we are now able to explore the interaction between genes and the environment at an unprecedented level: from developmental processes to the epigenetic effects of the environment in our genome.
Teaching on our BSc Genetics course focuses on real-world applications, including medicine, biotechnology and genomics.The study of genetics includes understanding how genes are passed from one generation to the next, how DNA works, and the effects of variation and natural selection.
Admission requirements
UK entry requirements
GCSE: Mathematics C/4.
A-levels: BCC, including Biology.
BTEC: DDD, depending on subject and units studied - advice on acceptability can be provided.
IB: 28 points or three Higher Level certificates with 544. Either must include Higher Level Biology with a minimum of grade 4, plus Standard Level Mathematics/Maths Studies grade 4, if not taken at Higher Level.
We are also happy to consider a combination of separate IB Diploma Programmes at both Higher and Standard Level. Exact offer levels will vary depending on the range of subjects being taken at higher and standard level, and the course applied for. Please contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for more information.
Please note that Maths in the IB is not required if you have already achieved GCSE Maths at grade C/4 or above or 4 in IB Middle Years Maths.
Access to HE Diploma: 45 Level 3 credits at Merit or above, depending on subject and units studied - advice on acceptability can be provided.
International & EU entry requirements
We accept a wide range of qualifications from applicants studying in the EU and other countries. Get in touch with any questions you may have about the qualifications we accept. Remember to tell us about the qualifications you have already completed or are currently taking.
English language requirements
English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall. Different requirements apply for second year entry, and specified component grades are also required for applicants who require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK.
For more information about admission requirements, please contact the school or the inquiries team.
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Program content
Year 1
- Quantitative methods for Life Sciences
- Molecular Cell Biology
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry of Macromolecules
- Genetics and Evolution
- Animal Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour
- Transferable Skills in Life Sciences
- General and Organic Chemistry
Year 2
- Molecular Biology: Genes, Proteins and Disease
- Genome Science
- Cell Biology
- Computational Data Analysis: R for Life Sciences
- Medical Genetics (optional)
- Immunity in Health and Disease (optional)
- Plant Molecular Physiology and Genetics (optional)
- Protein Bioinformatics (optional)
Final Year
- Issues in Biomolecular Science
- Human Molecular Genetics
- Research Project in Biomedical Science
- Molecular and Developmental Immunology
- Molecular Basis of Cancer
- Evolutionary Psychology: How natural and sexual selection helped shape the human mind
Program delivery
Genetics BSc: 3 years
Genetics BSc (Including Year Abroad): 4 years
Genetics BSc (Including Placement Year): 4 years
- Learn through a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions and coursework
- Gain experience collating and interpreting data, and reporting findings clearly and concisely
Tuition
Tuition fee for the academic year 2020-21
- Home/UK fee: £9,250
- International fee: £19,080
Career paths
As the world's environmental problems increase, the demand for qualified biologists and geneticists continues to grow.
Our recent graduates have taken up a wide range of careers in research laboratories, consultancies, business and industry, conservation practice and environmental assessment. Others have gone on to work in sales, publishing and management, while others still have chosen to enhance their career opportunities by studying for MSc or PhD degrees.
About this institute

University of Essex
We’re a university where curiosity prevails, and where exploring new ways of thinking and pushing boundaries, isn’t just encouraged, it’s expected. We’re proud to be Gold rated in the Teaching Excellence Framework 2017 and ranked in the top 30 in...