Genetics University Courses Scotland

Students take courses in Medical Sciences and Chemistry for Life Sciences 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 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 Principles of Genetic Analysis and the Molecular Biology of Gene Function; Genome Biology; Evolutionary Genetics; Medical Genetics; Population Genetics; Developmental Genetics; Human Genetics and Complex Genetics Disorders.

Fourth Year (Honours)

Students begin their Honours year by attending a two-day reading party. Students take a core course in Advanced Molecular Biology, together with a course in Human Evolutionary Genetics and Advanced Human Genetic Disease. 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.