Genetics

Genetics is an exciting and fast‑moving field that is transforming our understanding of life and driving innovation across science and medicine. From diagnosing and treating diseases to developing new pharmaceuticals, personalised therapies, genetic engineering, biotechnology and the study of evolution, biodiversity and pathogens, genetics now underpins many of the most important scientific advances of our time.

Our Genetics BSc (Hons) / MSci (Hons) provides an in‑depth understanding of the fundamental building blocks of life on Earth. You will gain hands‑on experience with techniques used to analyse gene expression, protein interactions, DNA structure and damage, and biomolecular and cellular imaging, alongside advanced computational approaches used in modern genetic research. Throughout the programme, you will develop strong analytical, problem‑solving and project‑management skills, and learn how to design experiments and plan effective research programmes.

This single honours, interdisciplinary degree draws on shared modules across the Department and wider School, giving you a broad and diverse learning experience. You will also have the opportunity to enhance your academic and professional development through an intercalary year abroad or a year in industry.

By studying at Swansea, you will learn from academic staff who are actively engaged in a wide range of cutting‑edge genetics research. Their expertise offers you an exceptional mix of academic excellence and real‑world scientific practice. Alongside your formal studies, you will have the opportunity to attend regular research talks delivered by Swansea University academics and guest speakers from other universities, industry, the NHS, and leading research institutions.

You will also benefit from access to the Medical School’s state‑of‑the‑art research facilities, supporting advanced molecular and cellular studies. These include DNA and protein analytical equipment, computer‑based image analysers, and a powerful high‑performance computing facility for large‑scale data analysis.

Examples of modules studies include:
Year 1
• Genetics, Genomics & Evolution
• Population Genomics
• Energy and Metabolism: The Reactions of Life
• Microbiology
• Digital Health
• Epigenetics, Gene Regulation and Disease
• Human Physiology
• Fundamental Research Skills
• Eukaryotic Cell Biology
• Introductory Biochemistry

Year 2
• Molecular Evolution
• Techniques in Molecular Biology
• Human and Medical Genetics
• Microbial Molecular Genetics
• Human Immunology
• Bioethics
• Introduction to Health Data Science
• Practical Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Biostatistics

Year 3
• Practical Quantitative Research
• Biomedical Laboratory Techniques
• Animal Development
• Advanced Biostatistics
• Machine Learning in Healthcare
• Medical Genetics
• Genetic Toxicology
• Genetics of Cancer
• Human Immunopathology
• Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine
• Advanced Epidemiology
• Bioinformatics: From Sequence to Function
Year 4
• Science Communication
• Advanced Research Project A
• Advanced Research Project Dissertation

Assessments will include Laboratory practicals, written exams, oral presentations, written assignments, and clinical skills assessments. The range of assessment methods is chosen to develop and demonstrate a range of skills transferable to the modern healthcare environment including reflection, oral and written communication, confidence and competence.