Genetics

Genetics at Michigan State University offers a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for careers in biological research, healthcare, agriculture, biotechnology, and related fields. The program provides students with a solid foundation in the principles of genetics, molecular biology, cell biology, evolution, and reproductive biology, equipping them with both theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills. Students will explore the mechanisms of gene structure and function, genetic inheritance, and the molecular basis of genetic variation, gaining insight into how genes influence the development, health, and evolution of organisms. The curriculum emphasizes experimental design, data analysis, and critical thinking, enabling students to contribute to cutting-edge research and scientific discoveries. Participants will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, providing hands-on experience with techniques such as DNA sequencing, genetic engineering, and bioinformatics. The program encourages interdisciplinary learning, integrating concepts from biology, chemistry, mathematics, and computer science to address complex biological questions. Students are also encouraged to participate in research projects, internships, and collaborative activities that enhance their understanding and prepare them for graduate studies or careers in industry and academia. The program is designed to develop highly skilled, innovative scientists who can analyze genetic information, solve real-world problems, and contribute to advancements in health, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. Graduates will be well-equipped to pursue further education in genetics, medicine, or related fields or to enter the workforce as researchers, laboratory technicians, or professionals in biotech companies, healthcare organizations, and research institutions. The program reflects Michigan State University’s commitment to excellence in research, education, and community engagement in the biological sciences.

At least 20 credits in 800 and 900 level courses and a minimum of 24 credits of doctoral dissertation research (GEN 999) are required.  The following categories (I, II, III, IV, V) of requirements must be completed. 

1. Complete each of the following:
   • BMB 801 - Molecular Biology (3 credits, Fall)
   • Either MMG 833 - Microbial Genetics (3 credits, Fall) or MMG/GEN 835 - Eukaryotic Molecular Genetics (3 credits, Spring)
   • GEN 810 - Theory and Practice of Teaching Genetics (1 credit/semester) One credit is required, students may accumulate a maximum of 3 credits
2. Complete one genomics, quantitative or computational biology course. A course from the following list typically fulfills this requirement.  However, other courses as well as appropriate workshops or on-line courses may also be acceptable at the discretion of the Genetics Program Director.
   • BMB 961 - Genomics and Proteomics of Complex Genetic Systems (2 credits, Fall even years)
   • CMSE 801 - Introduction to Computational Modeling (3 credits, Fall)
   • CSE 801 - Computational Science for Evolutionary Biologists (3 credits, Fall)
   • CSS 941 - Quantitative Genetics in Plant Breeding (3 credits, Spring even years)
   • EPI 808 - Biostatistics I (3 credits, Fall)
   • EPI 808B - Advanced Biostatistics (3 credits, Fall)
   • EPI 853B - Statistical Computing (3 credits, Fall)
   • EPI 855 - Biostatistical Modeling in Genomic Data Analysis (3 credits, Fall)
   • EPI 880 - Selected Topics in Biostatistics: Analysis & Prediction of Complex Traits Using Whole-Genome Regression Methods (3 credits, Summer)
   • FW 849 - Applied Bayesian Inference Using Monte Carlo Methods for Quantitative Biologists (3 credits, Fall even years)
   • IBIO/PLB 851 - Quantitative Methods in Ecology and Evolution (3 credits, Fall)
   • PLB 810 - Theories & Practices in Bioinformatics (3 credits, Fall even years)
   • PLB 812 - Principles and Applications of Plant Genomics (3 credits, Fall)
   • PHM 830 - Experimental Design and Data Analysis (3 credits, Fall, Summer)
   • STT 814 - Advanced Statistics for Biologists (4 credits, Spring)
   • STT 855 - Statistical Genetics (3 credits, Fall odd years)
3. Complete one other course in genetics. A course from the following list typically fulfills this requirement. A second course from List II may also fulfill this requirement.  Other courses may also be acceptable at the discretion of the Genetics Program Director.
   • ENT 851 - Insect Physiology and Molecular Biology (3 credits, Fall odd years)
   • FOR 842 - Population Genetics, Genealogy, and Genomics (3 credits, Fall)
   • FW 828 - Molecular Ecology & Conservation Genetics (3 credits, Fall even yrs)
   • IBIO 855 - Molecular Evolution: Principles & Techniques (3 credits, Fall odd yrs)
   • MMG 813 - Molecular Virology (3 credits, Spring even years)
   • MMG 833 - Microbial Genetics (3 credits, Fall)*
   • MMG 835 - Eukaryotic Molecular Genetic s (3credits, Spring)*
   • MMG 837 - Human Molecular Genetics (3 credits, Fall odd years)
   • MMG 861 - Advanced Microbial Pathogenesis (3 credits, Spring odd years)
   • PLB/IBIO 849  - Evolutionary Biology (3 credits, Spring)
   • PLB/BMB 856 - Plant Molecular and Omic Biology (3 credits, Spring)
   • PLB 865 - Plant Growth and Development (3 credits, Fall even years)
   • PLP 881 - Molecular & Biochemical Plant Pathology (3 credits, Spring even yrs)
   • PLP 884 - Prokaryotic Diseases of Plants (3 credits, Spring odd years)
     *Note:  MMG 833 or MMG 835 may be taken as an elective if not already selected to fulfill the requirement to take one of these courses (see Category I above).
4. Complete one other elective course. Any 800/900-level course may fulfill this requirement including a course from List II or List III.
5. Complete four semesters of GEN 800, Genetics Seminar (1 credit each) during the four to five years of graduate study in the Genetics Program.  Seminar courses from other departments may be acceptable at the discretion of the Genetics Program Director.
6. The student’s Guidance Committee may require additional course work and/or students may elect to take additional optional courses.

The BioMolecular Sciences Gateway does not establish minimum cut-off values on any indices. Rather, we attempt to select those applicants with the most promise for superior achievement. The following standards serve only as general guidelines. The successful applicant will typically have:

• Equivalent to a four-year bachelor's degree that includes coursework that demonstrates proficiency in math and science
• An undergraduate GPA of 3.5
• Research experience
• 75th percentile quantitative reasoning and 70th percentile verbal reasoning scores on the required GRE General Test. A strong score on the GRE subject in chemistry, biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, or biology (depending on your interests) will enhance an applicant's prospects.
• Pay Application Fee 
• Academic Statement
• Personal Statement
• Curriculum Vitae or Resume
• Three (3) Letters of Recommendation
  • These can sent by mail to the BMS office (address below); emailed directly by the recommender to bmsgrad@msu.edu or recommenders may submitt the letters electronically in PDF format through the MSU Admissions Student Portal. Letters submitted by applicants will NOT be accepted.
• GRE Scores
  • The General Test is required. Institution 1465, Program Code GRE 0202. A subject test in chemistry, biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, or biology (depending upon your interests) is strongly suggested for all programs except Pharmacology and Toxicology.
• MCAT Scores
  • Required only if applicant is dual-enrolled in a medical college & a Ph.D. Program
• International students will have TOEFL scores of at least 600 with no sub-score below 60 (paper-based test) or 90 with no sub-score below 20 (23 writing section) (internet-based test)
• OFFICIAL Undergraduate/Graduate Transcripts
  • Most successful applicants will have a GPA of at least 3.3 over their last two years of study. Request the Registrar of EACH college/university attended to send one copy of each "official transcript." Transcripts sent by applicants will NOT be accepted. Transcipts of work taken at Michigan State University need not be requested. Colleges and Universities generally require both fees and time to process requests for transcripts. To be considered "offical," the transcripts must have a university seal or notarization mark and be sent directly by the insitution 

Scholarships

All students admitted are provided a graduate assistantship that includes a stipend for living expenses, academic fees, tuition and health insurance. The total value of a graduate assistantship is approximately $38,000 per year.

In addition to the graduate stipends offered by individual departments, the College of Natural Science and the Graduate School offer a number of fellowship programs for exceptionally qualified applicants, as described below:

• BioMolecular Science Fellowships
• College of Natural Science Fellowships

The Genetics undergraduate program at Michigan State University offers students a comprehensive education in the fundamental principles of genetics, molecular biology, and biotechnology. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a solid grounding in the core concepts of genetic inheritance, gene expression, and genome analysis, preparing them for diverse careers in research, healthcare, agricultural development, and biotechnology industries. Students gain hands-on laboratory experience through coursework that emphasizes modern genetic techniques such as DNA sequencing, gene editing, and bioinformatics. The program also provides opportunities to explore specialized areas including medical genetics, agricultural genetics, and evolutionary biology. Michigan State University’s state-of-the-art facilities and research centers support undergraduate research projects, enabling students to participate in cutting-edge investigations alongside leading scientists in the field. The program collaborates with various departments and institutes to facilitate interdisciplinary learning and research opportunities. Graduates of the Genetics program are equipped with critical thinking, data analysis, and communication skills necessary for careers in academia, industry, or advanced studies. Additionally, the program prepares students for graduate education in genetics, genomics, molecular biology, and related disciplines. The university’s strong network of alumni and industry connections also provides students with internship and job placement opportunities. Overall, the Genetics program at Michigan State University aims to develop well-rounded scientists who can contribute to scientific advancement and address real-world biological challenges.