Genetics

Genetics at the University of California offers an innovative and comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for careers in biological research, medicine, biotechnology, and related fields. This program provides students with a deep understanding of the genetic principles underlying the function, variation, and evolution of living organisms. Through a combination of coursework, laboratory experience, and research opportunities, students gain essential skills in molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics, and experimental techniques. The curriculum is structured to foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and technical expertise, enabling graduates to contribute to advances in healthcare, agriculture, environmental science, and biotechnology industries. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and collaborate with leading faculty engaged in groundbreaking research. The program emphasizes understanding the ethical, legal, and social implications of genetic technologies, preparing students to navigate complex issues in modern science and society. In addition to foundational courses, students can pursue specialized tracks or research projects aligned with their interests, such as human genetics, developmental biology, or genomics. The program also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from biology, chemistry, computer science, and mathematics. Graduates of the Genetics program at UC are well-equipped for graduate studies, medical school, or careers in research, healthcare, and industry. With a strong emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical application, the program aims to cultivate innovative scientists who can address some of the most pressing biological challenges of our time.

Major Requirements

Requirements

• If you are a California resident, you must receive a 3.0 GPA or higher in the required “a-g” subjects during grades 10 and 11
• If you are a non-California resident, you must have a minimum 3.4 GPA in the required "a-g" subjects in order to be eligible for the UC System

"A-G" Requirements

The “A-G” requirements, also called Academic Subject Requirements, represent the minimum academic preparation you must meet to be eligible for admission to the University of California.

A. Two years of history/social science — One year of world history, cultures and geography and one year of U.S. history OR one half-year of U.S. history and one half-year of American government or civics 
B. Four years of English 
C. Three years of mathematics (four years recommended) — Must include algebra, geometry, and advanced algebra 
D. Two years of laboratory science (three years recommended) — Must include two of these three subjects: biology, chemistry, and physics 
E. Two years of a language other than English (three years recommended) — The second year or higher of the same language must be completed to fulfill this requirement 
F. One year of visual and performing arts — A yearlong course chosen from the following: dance, drama/theater, music, or visual art 
G. One year of college preparatory electives

Exams Requirement

You must submit college admission test scores from the SAT or the ACT with Writing. Submission of SAT Subject Test scores is not required, but may add positively to the review of your application. For exam requirement details, visit admission.universityofcalifornia.edu.

Other Considerations

The following faculty-approved criteria are also taken into account when reviewing your application.

• Number of, content of, and performance in academic courses completed beyond the University’s minimum eligibility requirements
• Number of and performance in honors and AP courses
• Being identified as “eligible in the local context” by ranking in the top nine percent of your high school class, as determined by the University’s academic criteria
• Quality of your senior year program, as measured by the type and number of academic courses in progress or planned
• Quality of academic performance relative to educational opportunities available at your school
• Outstanding performance in one or more academic subject areas
• Outstanding work on one or more special projects in any academic field
• Recent marked improvement in academic performance
• Special talents, achievements, and awards in a particular field, or experiences that demonstrate unusual promise for leadership or ability to contribute to the intellectual vitality of the campus
• Completion of special projects that offer significant evidence of your special effort and determination or that may indicate special suitability to an academic program on a specific campus
• Academic accomplishments in light of your experiences and circumstances, such as disabilities, low family income, first generation to attend college, need to work, disadvantaged social or educational environment, difficult personal and family situations or circumstances, refugee status or veteran status
• Location of your secondary school and residence, to provide for geographic diversity in the student population and to account for the wide variety of educational environments existing in California

Personal Insight Questions

As of August 1, 2016, applicants will have a greater opportunity to express who they are and what matters to them on their UC Application. New personal insight questions have replaced the two previous personal statement prompts. Key points about the personal insight questions include:

• Freshman applicants will choose four out of eight questions to answer.
• Each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words.

Your personal insight questions should be exactly that - personal. This is your opportunity to tell us about yourself, your hopes, ambitions, life experiences, and inspirations.

We encourage you to take your time. Be open, be reflective, and be honest. Your personal insight questions provide context for the rest of your application.

Meet English proficiency requirements for success.

If you attended four years at a high school or attended another college or university in which the language of instruction is not English, you must provide evidence of English proficiency to be successful in university studies at UCI.

If you have less than three years of instruction in English in the U.S., you must meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement by achieving an acceptable score on any one of the following tests:

• Score 80 or higher on the Internet-based version of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or score 550 or higher on its paper-based version
• Score 3, 4, or 5 on the AP examination in English Language and Composition or English Literature and Composition
• Score 5, 6, or 7 on the IB Higher Level Examination in English (Language A)
• Score 6 or higher on the IB Standard Level Examination in English (Language A)
• Score 6.5 or higher on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Score 24 or higher on the ACT combined English/Writing or English Language Arts (ELA)
• Score 560 or higher on the old SAT, Writing section, OR score 31 or higher on the SAT Writing and Language Test of the new SAT with Essay

Please note the English Language Proficiency Requirement is waived with one UC transferable English Composition course (not ESL) taken at a regionally accredited U.S. college/university with a grade of C or better.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Genetics undergraduate program at the University of California offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's residency status, with in-state students benefiting from lower rates compared to out-of-state students. For the academic year, in-state undergraduate students can expect to pay approximately $14,000 per year in tuition and fees, while out-of-state students may pay around $44,000 annually. These costs are subject to annual increases and do not include additional expenses such as housing, textbooks, transportation, and personal expenses. To assist students with the financial burden, the university provides a variety of scholarships, grants, and financial aid packages. The University of California offers need-based grants, merit-based scholarships, and departmental awards specific to students enrolled in the Genetics program. Furthermore, students are encouraged to apply for federal financial aid programs, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can determine eligibility for grants, work-study opportunities, and low-interest loans. The university’s Financial Aid Office provides counseling and resources to help students navigate their options and complete the application process efficiently. Additionally, many students participate in work-study positions on campus, gaining practical experience while earning money to offset educational costs. The university also maintains partnerships with external organizations and foundations that offer scholarships and fellowships for undergraduate research in Genetics. For students interested in graduate-level funding, the Genetics department actively supports students through research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and fellowships that cover tuition and provide a living stipend. Overall, the University of California is committed to making Genetics studies accessible and affordable through a comprehensive array of financial supports designed to meet diverse student needs and ensure that talented individuals can pursue their academic and research ambitions in the field of genetics.

The undergraduate program in Genetics at the University of California offers students a comprehensive education in the fundamental principles of genetics, genomics, molecular biology, and evolutionary biology. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology, and academia by providing a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills. Students will explore the mechanisms of inheritance, gene expression, genetic variation, and the application of genetic engineering techniques, including CRISPR and other gene-editing technologies. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on laboratory experience, research opportunities, and the integration of computational biology to analyze genetic data. Through coursework, seminars, and research projects, students will gain insight into the role of genetics in health and disease, developmental processes, and the diversity of life on Earth. The program also provides interdisciplinary training, encouraging collaboration across fields such as biology, chemistry, and computer science. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for advanced study in graduate and professional schools or for entry-level positions in biotech companies, medical research institutes, public health agencies, and environmental organizations. The university’s faculty includes leading experts in genetics and related disciplines, offering mentorship and opportunities for original research. Additionally, students can participate in internships, research centers, and university-wide initiatives that promote innovation and scientific discovery. The program aims to develop not only technical proficiency but also critical thinking, data analysis, and communication skills essential for a successful career in modern genetics. Overall, the Genetics undergraduate program at UC strives to cultivate a new generation of scientists and healthcare professionals dedicated to advancing our understanding of life’s molecular basis and applying this knowledge to improve human health and environmental sustainability.