Genetics (including Year Abroad)

Genetics at the University of Essex offers a comprehensive undergraduate programme designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles of genetics, molecular biology, and genomics. The programme is aimed at students who are keen to explore the mechanisms that underpin inheritance, genetic variation, and evolutionary processes, as well as their applications in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. Throughout the course, students will develop a strong foundation in biological sciences, gaining practical skills in laboratory techniques and data analysis, which are essential for careers in research, healthcare, and industry. The curriculum includes core modules such as Introduction to Genetics, Molecular Biology, Evolution and Biodiversity, and Human Genetics, as well as optional modules allowing students to specialise in areas like Medical Genetics, Microbial Genetics, or Bioinformatics. A distinctive feature of the programme is the Year Abroad, where students have the opportunity to study at partner universities across Europe or beyond, gaining international experience and a broader perspective on scientific research and education. The year abroad not only enhances language skills but also fosters intercultural competence and independence, making graduates highly competitive in the global job market. The university's state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities support outstanding teaching and research activities, ensuring students have hands-on experience with current techniques in genomics, sequencing, and genetic analysis. Additionally, close links with industry partners, research institutes, and healthcare providers allow students to engage in real-world projects, internships, and networking opportunities. Graduates of the Genetics programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in biomedical research, genetic counseling, pharmaceuticals, agricultural biotechnology, environmental conservation, and beyond. The programme also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study, including Master's and PhD programmes. With a dedicated academic staff and an emphasis on practical skills and innovative research, the University of Essex's Genetics programme prepares students to contribute meaningfully to scientific advancements and societal challenges in genetics and related fields.

Detailed Course Facts

• English

Course Content

Our courses are based on flexibility and choice, so that you can tailor your degree to your interests. In your first year you usually take four or five pre-requisite modules for your course allowing you flexibility to try subjects you have not come across before.
With a small number of exceptions, once you successfully complete the first year of your BSc, you qualify to enter the second year not only of that course but also of a range of other courses. This means you can change your course, providing you have taken the appropriate pre-requisites and places are available.
We continue to offer a range of optional modules in your second and final-years and most courses allow you to undertake a final-year project. The research project enables you to work in one of our research laboratories alongside our internationally reputed scientists, studying real science in a real scientific environment. Some of our science courses offer an optional extra year of an industrial placement.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1
Molecular Cell Biology;
Genetics and Evolution;
Microbiology;
Biochemistry of Macromolecules;
Animal and Plant Biology;
General and Organic Chemistry; and
Life Science Key Skills

Year 2
Skills in Biomolecular Science;
Laboratory Workshop;
Molecular Biology;
Molecular Genetics;
Immunity in Health and Disease;
Cell Biology;
Genome Science; and three optional modules from: Proteins and Regulation of Human Metabolism, Plants for the Twenty-first Century, Evolution, Microbial Diversity and Biotechnologys

Year 3
Year abroad

Year 4
Research Project and Research Skills;
Issues in Biomolecular Science;
Human Genetics; and three optional modules from: Cancer Biology, Molecular Virology, Plant Biotechnology, Evolutionary and Behavioural Ecology and Bioinformatics

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

A-levels: ABB-BBB, including Biology
GCSE Mathematics: C
GCSE English: C
IB: 32-30 points, including Higher Biology grade 5 and Standard Mathematics grade 4 (if not taken at Higher Level, we consider IB certificates at the Higher Level on a case-by-case basis)
If taking the Access to HE Diploma in Sciences please e-mail us.
English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

Genetics at the University of Essex offers a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with foundational and advanced knowledge in the field of genetics, molecular biology, and related disciplines. The program aims to equip students with the theoretical understanding and practical skills necessary for careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology, and other science-based industries. Throughout the course, students explore core topics such as DNA structure and function, gene expression and regulation, genetic variation, inheritance patterns, and genome analysis. The curriculum also emphasizes the application of genetic principles in medicine, agriculture, and environmental science.

A distinctive feature of this programme is its inclusion of a Year Abroad, allowing students to spend a year studying at a partner university in another country. This opportunity enhances cultural awareness, language skills, and global perspectives, and provides exposure to different research environments and academic approaches. During the Year Abroad, students may participate in laboratory work, coursework, and cultural exchanges, all of which contribute to their personal and professional development.

The course is designed to be flexible, with options to specialise in areas such as medical genetics, molecular biotechnology, or evolutionary genetics as students progress. Practical laboratory sessions are integrated into the curriculum to develop experimental skills, alongside lectures, seminars, and coursework assessments. The programme also emphasizes current advances in genetic technologies, including CRISPR gene editing, next-generation sequencing, and bioinformatics, preparing students for cutting-edge developments in genetics research and industry.

Students benefit from the University's strong links with local and international research institutes, providing opportunities for internships, guest lectures, and collaborative projects. The teaching staff are active researchers, contributing to the advancement of genetic sciences, ensuring that the curriculum remains current with scientific developments. Graduates of the program are well prepared for employment in academia, healthcare, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and other sectors where genetics plays a crucial role. Many go on to postgraduate study or research careers, supported by the University's research facilities and academic networks.

Overall, the Genetics degree at Essex combines theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and international exposure to foster a well-rounded understanding of genetic sciences, preparing students to contribute effectively to scientific and societal challenges in genetics and related fields.