Biochemistry and Genetics, BSc (Hons)

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Course Overview

This joint honours degree combines two complementary and overlapping disciplines, giving you in-depth knowledge of the advanced molecular biology techniques and research which are the basis for understanding all forms of life.

Molecular biology is a growing subject which is making enormous impact in many scientific areas, including the study and treatment of many human diseases, pharmaceutical development, and the complex relationships between our environment and ourselves.

You will learn about the genetic processes that occur within living organisms and study how cells work at the sub-cellular and molecular levels so gaining an in-depth understanding of the biochemical function of living organisms, from bacteria to plants, animals, and humans.

You will develop excellent project management skills and learn how to design experiments and plan work programmes.

Why Biochemistry and Genetics at Swansea?

We were one of the first universities in the UK to introduce Genetics as a BSc discipline in the 1960s so we have a very long and respected track record in this field.

You will benefit from access to the state-of-the-art research facilities at the Medical School, including bioanalytical equipment such as HPLC, gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, DNA and protein analytical equipment and computer-based image analysers for molecular or cellular studies.

Your Biochemistry and Genetics Experience

You can choose to study Biochemistry and Genetics as a:

  • 3-year BSc,
  • 4-year BSc with a year in industry in the form of a placement year,
  • 4-year BSc with a year abroad, or a
  • 4-year MSci with an integrated master’s level qualification

Studying the 3 year BSc, you will undertake a mix of compulsory and optional modules, giving you the flexibility to tailor your degree to your particular interests, career ambitions, or plans for further study.

Additionally, the 4-year programme with a Placement year offers an additional placement year between the second and final year, giving you the opportunity to experience work in industry, and allowing you to build confidence and gain real-world experience.

Adding a year abroad, as part of the 4-year BSc option, allows you to add invaluable international experience to your CV while building intercultural communication skills that will improve your ability to interact with people from a variety of backgrounds.

Whichever qualification you choose, you will benefit from the expertise of our academic staff who are active in a diverse range of molecular biological research fields, offering an unrivalled mix of academic excellence and cutting edge practice.

Don't think you meet the entry requirements? Why not consider our BSc Biochemistry and Genetics with a Foundation year?

Biochemistry and Genetics Employment Opportunities

A degree in Biochemistry and Genetics opens up a range of exciting career opportunities in diverse fields including: 

  • industrial biotechnology
  • pharmaceuticals
  • diagnostics
  • evolution
  • bioinformatics

You can find more information on our Biochemistry and Genetics degrees by visiting our . 

Modules

The 3-Year BSc structure is as follows:

Your first year is made up of modules covering the essential foundations of biochemistry and genetics, including energy and metabolism, genetic analysis or biochemistry skills development, evolutionary & molecular genetics, and microbiology.

As you progress, you will further develop your knowledge, studying specialised topics including infectious diseases and parasitology, molecular evolution, microbial molecular genetics, biotechnology & protein engineering and bioinformatics.

In your final year you will complete an independent research project under the guidance of a professional research scientist.

If you choose to undertake a year abroad, this will take place between the second and third years of study listed above.

Biochemistry and Genetics, BSc (Hons)

Biochemistry and Genetics with a Placement Year, BSc (Hons)

Biochemistry and Genetics with a Year Abroad, BSc (Hons)