Genetics

Studying a Genetics degree at Swansea University will give you an in-depth knowledge of these fundamental building blocks of all life on earth. The 4 year MSci is an advanced undergraduate degree, adding a further research-focused year to a 3 year BSc.

You will learn techniques for analysing gene expression, protein interactions, DNA structure and damage, image analysis of biomolecules and cells, and advanced computer analytical methods.

The study of genetics is an exciting and fast-moving field that is making an enormous impact in a range of scientific areas, including the understanding and treatment of diseases, pharmaceutical development, evolution, and the conservation of biodiversity.

During the course you will develop excellent analytical and project management skills and learn how to design experiments and plan work programmes.

You will benefit from access to the Medical School’s state-of-the-art research facilities, including DNA and protein analytical equipment, computer-based image analysers for molecular or cellular studies, and a powerful supercomputer facility.

Our academic staff are active in a diverse range of genetics research fields, offering an unrivalled mix of academic excellence and cutting-edge practice.

In addition to your formal studies, we hold regular research talks with Swansea University staff and guest expert speakers from other universities, industry, the NHS and research institutions.

A degree in Genetics opens up a range of exciting careers and opportunities for further study in diverse fields and many of our students have gone on to study Graduate Entry Medicine at Swansea.

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.