Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics

Program Description: Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics

The Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics undergraduate program at the University of California offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in biomedical research, healthcare, biotechnology, and related fields. This interdisciplinary program integrates fundamental principles of genetics with advanced studies in genomics and bioinformatics, equipping students with the analytical and technical skills necessary to interpret complex biological data.

Students begin their academic journey with foundational courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, establishing the essential scientific background. As they progress, they explore core topics such as Mendelian and molecular genetics, cell biology, developmental biology, and biochemistry. The program emphasizes experimental design, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, fostering hands-on experience through research projects and lab work.

A significant component of the program is genomics, which involves the study of entire genomes and the mechanisms underlying genetic variation. Students learn about genome sequencing technologies, annotation methods, and the functional interpretation of genomic data. The bioinformatics portion develops computational skills, covering programming languages like Python and R, data management, and the use of bioinformatics tools and databases. These skills are critical for analyzing high-throughput sequencing data, identifying genetic mutations, and understanding gene regulation.

The curriculum also includes specialized courses in areas such as systems biology, population genetics, epigenetics, and personalized medicine. Students are encouraged to participate in research collaborations, internships, and seminars that provide insights into current scientific advances and industry applications. The program aims to foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and ethical considerations in genetic research.

Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue advanced studies or enter the workforce in diverse sectors including biomedical research, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, forensic science, and health informatics. The program benefits from the university’s state-of-the-art laboratories, research centers, and a vibrant academic community that promotes innovation and discovery.

Overall, the Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics program at the University of California offers a rigorous and dynamic educational experience tailored to prepare students for the rapidly evolving field of genetics and its applications in medicine and industry.

Course Work

The course curriculum consists of three core classes and one or more elective classes. The core curriculum is composed of one genetics, one genomics and one bioinformatics course, while one or more elective classes can be chosen from an area of a student’s specialization. 

Core Classes (breadth requirements)

Students will take one course from each of the following three areas (A-C).

(A) Molecular Genetics GEN 203 - Advanced Genetic Analysis of Model Organisms or MCBL 221 - Microbial Genetics or BPSC/BCH 231 - Plant Genome Students may choose other alternatives after approval by their guidance committee and graduate advisor.

(B) Genomics GEN 241 (former GEN240A) - Advances in Genomics

(C) Bioinformatics GEN 242 (former GEN240B) - Data Analysis in Genome Biology

Elective Classes (areas of specialization)

Students must take one or more classes from the following areas. Students can also choose elective courses other than the ones listed below after approval by their guidance committee and graduate advisor. 

Genetics 

• CMDB 201 - Molecular Biology
• GEN 206 - Gene Silencing 
• CMDB/GEN/BCH 209 – Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) Biology
• BPSC/BIOL 148 - Quantitative Genetics
• BPSC/BCH 231 - Plant Genome
• BIOL/MCBL 221 - Microbial Genetics
• EEOB 214 - Evolutionary Genetics
• ENTX 204 - Genome Maintenance and Stability
• EEOB 216 - Theory of Evolution 

Computational Biology and Statistics

• BPSC 234 – Statistical Genomics
• CS 141 - Intermediate Data Structures and Algorithms
• CS 100: Software Construction
• CS 234: Computational Methods for Biomolecular Data
• CS 238: Algorithmic Techniques in Computational Biology
• GEN 220 - Computational Analysis of High Throughput Biological Data
• STAT 110 - Biostatistical Methods in Life Sciences
• STAT 155 – Probability and Statistics for Science and Engineering
• STAT 201A/B/C Theory of Probability and Statistics (replaces 160A/B)
• STAT 201A/B/C - Elements of Probability and Statistical Theory
• STAT 160B - Elements of Probability and Statistical Theory
• STAT 161 - Introduction to Probability Models

Seminars

The GEN 261 seminar (Seminar in Genetics, Genomics, and Bioinformatics) must be taken every quarter. It is strongly recommended that students enroll in an invited seminar series during the other quarters in residence as well.

Supplemental Courses

Students may wish to take additional courses to supplement their graduate training. These courses will be tailored to the specific student’s needs and decided upon in consultation with their major professors. Classes that emphasize genetics, genomics, bioinformatics and other related areas are given in the List of Potential Courses in the GGB Graduate Student Handbook. Students should consider some training in the ethics of use of genetically modified organisms, impact of patents on application of bioinformatics/genomics data, and/or use of databases with bioinformatics/genomics information in a clinical setting

Additional Units taken to maintain 12-unit course load

Graduate students will register for 12 units per quarter to maintain full-time status. These units will include any lecture and seminar courses taken for the quarter. Typically students will also register for Directed Research (GEN 297) prior to advancement to candidacy or Research for Dissertation (GEN 299) after passing the Qualifying Exam

The Ph.D. is a research degree, and, accordingly, the goal of the program is to train students in the theoretical and experimental foundations of modern genetics. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in lab rotations, select a major professor and begin research work early in their training (during the first year of residence).

Written and Oral Qualifying Examinations 

Students are advanced to candidacy following successful completion of a written preliminary examination and an oral qualifying examination. 

Dissertation and Final Oral Examination 

Successful completion of a final oral dissertation defense is also required. 

Requirements

• The nonrefundable $100.00 application fee ($125.00 for M.B.A./M.P.Ac./M.Fin./Flex M.B.A. applicants only) must be paid by credit card (VISA, MasterCard, or Discover) prior to submission of your application.
• Applicants are required to submit an official copy of transcripts and degree certificates (in original language accompanied by certified English translations) from each academic institution attended after secondary school. These records should be sent directly from the Registrars Office of the academic institutions you have attended to the academic department to which you are applying. If this service is not available, applicants may also request official copies and send them in the institutions' original sealed and certified institution envelopes. Official records are original documents issued by the institution which bear the actual signature of the registrar in ink and the original wet ink stamp/seal of the issuing institution. The institution envelope must also bear that institution's appropriate authenticity indicator (original wet ink stamp and/or signature, etc.) from the appropriate department at that institution to consider the provided certified transcripts and degree certificates provided by the institution as official. Notarized documents are not acceptable. Credential evaluations by WES (World Education Services) or similar credential evaluation services are also not acceptable.
• Statement of Purpose/Personal History Statement
• Graduate programs require three (3) letters of recommendation. Applicants will be able to enter their recommenders' information directly into their electronic application. Recommenders will be notified electronically and provided instructions on how to submit a letter online. All letters of recommendation must be received electronically so they are attached to the applicants file for review.
• The GRE general test is required of all applicants with the exceptions noted below. Some programs also require applicants submit scores from the Subject Test of the GRE. Consult the program to which you are applying for its requirements. Although current scores are preferred, some graduate programs will accept scores from tests taken within the last five years. 
• All applicants whose first language is not English and who have not earned an advanced degree at an institution where English is the exclusive language of instruction must submit scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). This exam is administered by the Educational Testing Service and offered in nearly every country abroad. This exam must be taken within two years of the time you intend to enroll at UCR. The minimum acceptable scores are: 550 for the written exam; 213 for the computer-based exam, and 80 for the internet-based exam (iBT). We strongly advise you to be aware of the deadline for the program to which you are applying. Dates and information for TOEFL may be obtained by contacting the Educational Testing Service (ETS) at the address below, by calling 1-877-863-3546, or by consulting the TOEFL Web site. Fellowship applicants should take the exam in time to meet the program deadline. Keep in mind that it may take up to two weeks for test scores to reach us from ETS.
• Beginning with the Fall 2011 application cycle, UCR will accept scores from the Academic Modules of the International English Language Testing System IELTS) which is jointly managed by the British Council, IDP:IELTS Australia and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations. The exam must be taken within two years of the time you intend to enroll at UCR. The minimum acceptable scores are: overall band score of 7 with no individual section score less than 6. Please request an official Test Report Form (TRF) of your IELTS. 

Scholarships

• Dissertation Research Grant
• Fellowships
• Teaching and Research Assistantships

The University of California offers a comprehensive program in Genetics, Genomics, and Bioinformatics designed to prepare students for careers in cutting-edge biological sciences. This program provides a strong foundation in molecular biology, genetics, computational biology, and data analysis, integrating laboratory techniques with bioinformatics tools. Students have the opportunity to engage in research projects that explore the genetic basis of health and disease, evolutionary biology, and the development of genomic technologies. The curriculum combines coursework in genomics, bioinformatics, statistics, and biology, allowing students to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The program is tailored to meet the needs of students interested in research, medicine, biotechnology, and academia, offering options for undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. Facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories equipped for high-throughput sequencing, computational analyses, and experimental genetics. Faculty members are renowned experts in their fields, providing mentorship and collaborative research opportunities. The program emphasizes innovation, data-driven decision-making, and the ethical implications of genomic data. graduates are well-equipped for careers in academia, healthcare, biotechnology, and government agencies, as well as pursuing further advanced studies. The university encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, enabling students to work across departments like computer science, medicine, and conservation biology. With access to extensive genomic databases and partnerships with industry leaders, students gain real-world experience preparing them for the rapidly evolving landscape of genetic research and its applications. The program also supports participation in conferences, workshops, and international research initiatives, fostering a vibrant academic community committed to advancing genomic sciences.