Future Students

Genetics

Genetics is transdisciplinary—all biological sciences, including botany, zoology, biochemistry, pathology, molecular biology, microbiology and medicine, cover at least some aspects of genetics. The different disciplines provide their own unique opportunities to investigate genetic phenomena, so that our understanding of genetics is advancing at a great pace and along a wide variety of fronts. Studies in genetics will provide graduates with a broad overview of the universal principles, potentials and problems associated with DNA-based life, and will provide the skills necessary to become a geneticist.

This major covers the essential principles and skills, and combines well with other biological majors. A more closely structured alternative is the Bachelor of Science (Genetics) program.

Level 1
Biology, chemistry and mathematics at Level 1 provide a basis for a major in genetics as well as most other biologically oriented courses in the science faculties. You may include a physics unit and/or one or two elective units, which can be additional biological sciences or in a contrasting area of your interests.

Level 2 and 3
In the Bachelor of Science (Genetics) program you will complete one of these streams: molecular genetics, biomedical genetics or systems genetics (including population genetics). Each stream will introduce you to modern experimental techniques that are advancing our understanding of the fundamental systems of life. In each stream you also have the chance to complete a second major in a complementary discipline, such as biochemistry, conservation biology.

In the standard Bachelor of Science, whether by itself or in a combined course with another degree, you will be able to complete a major in genetics, selecting units to emphasise biochemical and cellular genetics, evolution genetics, agricultural genetics, or molecular genetics, which includes medical genetics. Molecular biology and molecular genetics are core components at Level 2 and are recommended at level 3, because these units cover the most rapidly progressing and universally applicable aspects of modern biology. You have the choice of completing a second major in another science discipline (except in some combined courses).

Career opportunities

The study of genetics will prepare you for entry into a wide array of careers. Opportunities exist for graduates with a strong grounding in genetics in the fields of pharmaceuticals, agribusiness, biomedicine and biomedical research, medical laboratory technology, animal and plant biotechnology and breeding, conservation biology, medical and veterinary diagnostics, forensics, patent law and genetic counselling. Further study may be required.