Genetics Courses Careers Quick Guide

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What is the study of Genetics?

Genetics is the branch of biology that specifically looks at genes, and more broadly looks at heredity in living organisms. Essentially it is the study of DNA and how genes encoded by DNA give rise to living organisms. More recently, the field of genetics has evolved to help understand what happens when genes and their associated products do not function as designed, leading to various life limiting genetic disorders and cancers.

Medical Genetics is making an enormous impact in the diagnosis and treatment of human disease. Knowledge obtained from sequencing the human genome is allowing researchers to understand the many diseases that have genetic components. Many medical doctors who become involved in research focus on genetic aspects of human health and disease.

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Erin Macdonald

"The course covers a variety of topics such as Immunology, Research Skills and Eukaryotic Cell Biology. Studying at Swansea has been different for me because I started during Covid-19 but I've had more lectures and face-to-face workshops on campus this year and always look forward to them. My favourite subject on my course so far is Immunology and Human Physiology. I really like learning about the body's systems and how treatments work and treat a variety of diseases and also how the body responds to the treatment."

Find out more about Erin's student story

What careers could be open to me when i graduate?

Throughout your studies you will develop skills and knowledge on a broad range of topics to prepare you for roles in a wide variety of professions. Career opportunities can be endless due to the way in which genetics underpins all biological life, therefore a genetics degree can make you highly competitive in many biological fields.

At Swansea University, your ability to choose modules that suit you own personal interests in genetics allowing you to shape your degree. Our family of genetics degrees will give you access to a range of exciting careers, including academia, industrial research, pharmaceuticals, genetic counselling, medical writing and the food and beverage industries to name a few.

Is genetics in high demand?

Genetics is an area of science that underpins many other biological fields, therefore advancements in genetics, the technology that underpins genetics and our understanding of living organisms is essential for their progression. The breadth and depth of jobs requiring specialist genetics knowledge means geneticists will always be in high demand in diverse fields including pharmaceutical production, industrial biotechnology, healthcare, agricultural advancement, and bioinformatic analysis.

What is a geneticists starting salary like?

The starting salary of a geneticist varies by sector however it is highly competitive compared to other biological and chemical sciences. For example, Trainee clinical scientists within the NHS are usually employed at Band 6, starting at £28,050. Additional job opportunities can be afforded to geneticists due to the range of sectors and fields in which they can pursue employment. Salaries can be highly rewarding and lucrative as experience and skills accumulate in both health and industrial sectors.

Can a geneticist be a doctor?

A geneticist works to develop our understanding of genes and heredity in living organisms which can also relate to the diagnosis and treatment or prevention of disease. This makes them an important part of the healthcare system worldwide, but one that functions behind the scenes. Through further postgraduate training you can undertake a Doctorate degree (PhD) whereby you will contribute to significant and original research in the field of genetics.

Alternatively, if you wish to become a medical Doctor our Pathway to Medicine. Our Medical Genetics degree will allow you can undertake further training to become a medical Doctor (through graduate entry medicine). You can even blend your genetics and medical degree to become a clinical geneticist.

This course is also one of our Pathways to Medicine degrees offering the opportunity of a guaranteed interview for Graduate Entry Medicine, helping you achieve your ambition to study Medicine and become a Doctor. They are ideal if you:

are applying for Medicine and want to make the most of your 5th Choice
missed out on a Medicine place at interview or selection want to beat the Clearing rush with UCAS Extra
find yourself looking for Medicine in Clearing

Learn More - Pathways to Medicine

Explore Your Course Options ...

Find out more information about each of our courses. On the course page you will find information on modules, entry requirements, teaching staff, tuition fees and how our Pathways to Medicine work.

Genetics

Our range of Genetics courses will give you an in-depth knowledge of the fundamental building blocks of all life on earth. You will learn techniques for analysing gene expression, protein interactions, DNA structure and damage, image analysis of biomolecules and cells, and advanced computer analytical methods. The study of genetics is an exciting and fast-moving field that is making an enormous impact in a range of scientific areas, including the understanding and treatment of diseases, pharmaceutical development, evolution, and the conservation of biodiversity.