Swansea University

What you'll study

This three-year honours degree covers the fundamentals of genetics alongside complementary areas of the life sciences. Core topics include molecular biology, cell biology, classical and population genetics, genomics and bioinformatics, gene regulation and developmental genetics. Practical laboratory skills are taught from early stages, including molecular techniques (PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning), microscopy, quantitative analysis and data handling.

In the second year you will build on core knowledge with modules in advanced molecular genetics, microbial genetics, and statistics for biologists. The final year emphasises independent research: you undertake a substantial research project or dissertation, combined with advanced options such as evolutionary genetics, human genetics and disease, epigenetics, and computational approaches to genomics.

• Year 1: introductory modules in cell and molecular biology, genetics principles, basic laboratory skills and data analysis.
• Year 2: intermediate genetics topics, laboratory techniques, statistics and introductory bioinformatics.
• Year 3: honours research project, advanced genetics modules and specialised options in areas such as human disease genetics, population genetics and genomics.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed a recognised secondary qualification with strong performance in science subjects. Biology and/or Chemistry at A-level (or equivalent) is strongly recommended because much of the programme builds on these foundations. Typical applicants present competitive grades at A-level, BTEC, International Baccalaureate or equivalent school-leaving qualifications. Mature applicants and those with Access to Higher Education qualifications are considered and may be required to demonstrate recent science experience.

Other entry routes and qualifications are accepted including BTEC Extended Diplomas, international qualifications and recognised access programmes; applicants whose first language is not English are normally required to meet an appropriate English language standard. Admissions may review personal statements, references and relevant experience when making offers.

Career prospects

Graduates of genetics programmes enter a wide range of careers. Common destinations include research roles in academic or industrial laboratories, positions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, and technical posts in diagnostic or forensic laboratories. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study (MSc or PhD) in genetics, genomics, bioinformatics or related biomedical fields.

Other career paths include genetic counselling (which requires additional professional training), clinical laboratory science, regulatory and quality roles in life-science companies, science communication, patent and intellectual property support for biotechnology, and roles in conservation and environmental genetics. The programme aims to develop transferable skills in experimental design, data analysis, critical thinking and communication that are valued across these sectors.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University combines multidisciplinary research strengths in biomedical and life sciences with modern laboratory facilities and dedicated research institutes. Students benefit from hands-on practical training, access to bioinformatics resources and opportunities to undertake an independent research project guided by active researchers. The university maintains links with local health services and industry partners, supporting work placements, internships and collaborative projects.

The learning environment emphasises small-group teaching, laboratory supervision and personalised support from academic staff. Swansea's coastal location also provides convenient fieldwork opportunities for modules that interact with ecology and evolutionary biology, while campus resources support career development and postgraduate progression for students aiming to continue in research or professional training.