Genetics

Genetics is the science of heredity and variation, exploring how biological information is encoded in DNA, transmitted from generation to generation, and expressed as the characteristics of living organisms. It sits at the heart of modern biology, underpinning our understanding of evolution, development, disease, and the astonishing diversity of life on Earth. From the genetics of inherited human conditions and the modification of crops to the population genomics of conservation biology and the molecular basis of cancer, genetics is a discipline with both profound scientific depth and direct practical importance.

At Aberystwyth you will study this four-year full-time programme, which includes a year in industry that gives you professional experience in a genetics, genomics, or biotechnology context before you graduate. Across the degree you will develop understanding of classical and molecular genetics, genomics, gene expression, epigenetics, population genetics, and the applications of genetic science in medicine, agriculture and beyond. You will build practical laboratory skills in techniques such as DNA sequencing, PCR, cell culture and bioinformatics, alongside the ability to analyse and interpret complex genetic datasets.

The year in industry extends your learning into professional environments where genetic research and application are actively taking place.

Genetics graduates are in demand across the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, in clinical genetics and genomic medicine, in research institutions and universities, in food science and agricultural biotechnology, and in forensic science. The analytical and laboratory skills you develop are also valued in quality assurance, regulatory affairs, science communication, and science policy. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study, pursuing an MSc or PhD in genetics, genomics, molecular biology, or a related field, with many going on to research careers in academia or industry.