Genetics BSc

Course overview

In the past two decades, genetics has undergone a revolution – transformed by groundbreaking advances in technology and research. Today, genetics is at the cutting edge of scientific discovery driving many of the major breakthroughs that are shaping our world. It is an incredibly exciting time to immerse yourself in this dynamic and rapidly evolving field.

On this course you will gain cutting-edge knowledge of the basic blueprint of life – learning how traits are inherited, expressed, and modified. You’ll explore how genetic research and genetic technologies, such as genome engineering, are being used to address some of the most complex scientific questions and tackle the world’s biggest challenges. You will gain hands-on experience in fundamental and advanced genetic techniques and can personalise your degree through a range of optional modules including human genetic disorders and cancer genetics.

Genetics is transforming our understanding of medicine, agriculture, biodiversity and conservation, and biotechnology. From unlocking the mechanisms of disease inheritance and prognosis, to revolutionising crop improvement and developing of new technologies, genetics is at the heart of addressing the global challenges of our generation and future generations - health crises, food security and environmental sustainability.

This 3-year BSc can also be converted into an integrated Masters (MBiol) with an optional additional year of specialist training, to study advanced research topics and undertake your own extended research project.

Course highlights

• Study the applications of genetic techniques in a diverse range of fields including genetic engineering, diagnostics and therapies for human diseases, developmental biology and human evolution.
• For those who select the optional medical modules, projects are available in the research laboratories of the Leeds General Infirmary and the Leeds Institute for Molecular Medicine at St. James University Hospital.
• Specific pathways through the programme present you with opportunities for workplace training through placements and internships.
• Our year in industry programme allows you to gain experience working with organisations, developing new skills for your CV.
• Experience life and learning in a different country through our study abroad programme, where you'll gain fresh perspectives and develop skills valued by employers.

Flexible degrees

Genetics is a specialist degree within the School of Biology which offers you flexibility throughout your time studying at Leeds.

Many of our biology degree courses share the same set of compulsory modules in the first year. A key benefit of having a common first year is that at the end of year 1, there are opportunities to transfer onto degree courses in Biology, Ecology and Conservation Biology and Zoology, subject to approval. Additional degree courses may be available depending on your academic background.

Wellbeing and support

The University of Leeds features an extensive network of excellent services dedicated to you and your wellbeing. We are here to help throughout your time in higher education, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed. For more information on the different facets of support you will have access to, please see our Wellbeing and Support page.

Facilities

Your degree will be based in the Faculty of Biological Sciences, one of the largest centres for biological sciences research in the UK and home to cutting edge research facilities, for example the latest technologies for molecular imaging including cryo electron microscopy. You’ll also have access to field research stations based in the UK to help you learn about ecology and behaviour in natural surroundings. Clinical staff at St James hospital contribute to the programme and supervise some final year projects for students with interests in human genetics.

Accreditation

Accredited by The Royal Society of Biology

The BSc Genetics (Industrial) variant of this course is accredited by The Royal Society of Biology.

Advanced Degree Accreditation by the Society recognises academic excellence in the biosciences, and highlights degrees that educate the research and development leaders and innovators of the future. The Advanced Accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from the programme meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including gaining a substantial period of research experience.

This accreditation is also applicable to the following course variants: MBiol Genetics; MBiol Genetics (Industrial); MBiol Genetics (International).

Course details

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Most courses consist of compulsory and optional modules. There may be some optional modules omitted below. This is because they are currently being refreshed to make sure students have the best possible experience. Before you enter each year, full details of all modules for that year will be provided.

For more information and a list of typical modules available on this course, please read BSc Genetics in the course catalogue.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

The Microbial World (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the diversity of microbial life and viruses on our planet and how we interact with microbes that are responsible for infections. You’ll explore how microorganisms interact with each other, how they influence the lives of more complex organisms and learn how fungi, bacteria and viruses are observed and manipulated safely.

Living Planet (20 credits) -You’ll be provided with an overview of the evolution and diversity of life, the key features that define each group and the role those take in ecological processes. Each group of organisms will be linked to a major global challenge including food security, disease and wildlife conservation, to demonstrate how fundamental science informs important societal issues.

The Basis of Life (20 credits) - You’ll learn about the fundamental processes of life, identifying the key concepts that underpin the biological processes in all living organisms, from bacteria to elephants. On completion, you’ll have a comprehensive grounding in the molecular basis of life from the atomic scale up to cells.

Practical Skills for Biology and Genetics (20 credits) - You’ll develop a broad range of standard laboratory skills including routine calculations, analytical methods to quantify biochemical processes and techniques to study bio-molecular and genetic interactions in vivo and in vitro. Practicals will address processes at the molecular, cellular, whole organism and population level within the broader remit of biology and genetics.

Research & Study Skills Level 1 (20 credits) - You'll gain in-depth understanding of the scientific process, the formulation and testing of hypotheses, making best use of scientific literature. Hands-on computer practical sessions will help you develop an appreciation of scientific data, and the key skills needed to solve problems.

Introduction to Genetics (10 credits) - You’ll explore the different meanings of ‘genetics’ and how this concept has changed over time. More importantly, you will explore what genetics means for us as organisms. To what extent do genes determine our inheritance? How do our genes make us the distinct and unique organisms we are?

Optional modules

Candidates may study 20 credits from the following optional modules:

Coastal and Upland Habitats Field Course (10 credits) - You’ll take a combination of field studies at various coastal or upland sites, followed by laboratory-based analysis to develop skills in sampling and monitoring field populations, and identification of diverse organisms. Projects will involve developing hypotheses related to their ecology and testing these using analytical techniques.

Introduction to Immunology (10 credits) - You’ll review fundamental immune mechanisms with a particular emphasis on human immunology and its relationship to health and disease. You'll discover how we protect ourselves from infection through our immune defences, and learn about the role of different types of leukocytes and antibodies.

Exploring Whole Organism Biology in the Lab and Field (10 credits) - You'll learn core skills and techniques for biology and whole organism studies in the laboratory and field. Practical classes will address processes at the whole organism and population level within the broader remit of biology and whole organism studies in the laboratory and in the field.

Biology of the Mind (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the foundational neuroscience concepts of structure and function, and how systems level function emerges. These concepts will be explained using examples drawn from across the human nervous system in health and disease, and from the experimental approaches used in neuroscience research.

Intro to Pharmacology (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the foundational concepts underpinning pharmacology: pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, clinical pharmacology, and drug discovery and development. Learning concepts will be covered using cutting-edge examples drawn from different pharmacotherapeutic approaches, disease states and pathophysiology.

Using Biology to Feed the World (10 credits) - This module explores how knowledge derived from biological research is applied to and exploited in agriculture. It considers food production from animals, plants and microorganisms, the different systems of production, the use of biotechnology for crop improvement and the opportunities and challenges facing a changing world.

Discovery Modules (10 credits) - As well as the compulsory and optional modules that make up your programme of study, you may be able to choose something different to your main subject as a Discovery Module.

Year 2

Compulsory modules

Omics and Big Data Biology (20 credits) - You’ll be introduced to omics-based approaches at the forefront of equipping biologists to overcome global challenges. You’ll develop practical data-science skills in comparative genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics to conduct group-based and individual research projects.

Intermediate Skills in the Molecular Biosciences (20 credits) - You’ll be trained in data collection, experimental techniques, and problem-solving in the context of molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry and microbiology. You 'll cover practical experiments in gene cloning, protein expression, PCR, electrophoresis, and enzyme assays, as well as tutorials on data handling and critical reviews of current topics in molecular biology.

Research and Study Skills Level 2 (10 credits) - This module further develops the core research and scientific skills that were developed in Year 1 and helps you to prepare for third year research projects and beyond.

Human Genetics (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the human genome, chromosomes and heredity with an emphasis on genetic disease and cancer. You will also learn about the impact of human genomics in the context of health and genetic counselling.

Introduction to Bioinformatics (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the basics of bioinformatics and the application of bioinformatics to many biological questions. The module shows how genomic data is stored and accessed to learn about any characterised gene or protein and how it links to resources on research. The approaches to modern phylogenetics are introduced and how bioinformatics is applied to drug discovery.

Optional modules

40 credits from the following

Human Populations (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the basics of bioinformatics and the application of bioinformatics to many biological questions. The module shows how genomic data is stored and accessed to learn about any characterised gene or protein and how it links to resources on research. The approaches to modern phylogenetics are introduced and how bioinformatics is applied to drug discovery.

Sustainable Food Production (10 credits) - You'll explore both crop and animal production systems. You’ll review the evolution of farming biodiversity and the challenges we face in maximising production whilst safeguarding the environment.

Chemotherapy (10 credits) - This module focuses on selective toxicity, the principle behind chemotherapy, where agents target and eliminate harmful cells or organisms. You’ll explore drugs used to treat cancer, bacterial, fungal and viral infections. Immunosuppressant drugs and the chemotherapy of protozoal diseases will also be discussed.

Molecular Virology (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to techniques used for the study of viruses, the structure of viruses and the processes of their replication and evolution. You'll also learn about how virus biology can be exploited for gene expression and gene therapy.

Medical Immunology (10 credits) - You’ll gain detailed knowledge of the immune system, focusing on human health, from infectious and auto-immune diseases to treatment.

Cell Biology of Disease (10 credits) - You'll gain a broad understanding of the eukaryotic cell and how it responds to and is altered in infectious and non-infectious diseases. Emphasis is placed on a comprehensive grounding of cellular function by considering different cell types and associated disease states.

Medical Microbiology (20 credits) - You will gain a detailed understanding of important human viral and bacterial pathogens and methods of combatting these infections.

Evolution, Adaptation and Behaviour (20 credits) - You'll examine evolutionary processes to develop an understanding of adaptation to environments, across evolutionary time and in our rapidly changing modern world. The module takes animal behaviour, taught in a behavioural ecology framework, as a specific field in which evolution and adaptation can be explored.

How Plants Live (20 credits) - Explore the importance of plants in ecosystems by studying their physiology, metabolism and key growth concepts. Topics include embryogenesis, meristems, flower and seed development, and adaptations like gravitropism and phototropism. The modules also covers light perception, model systems, and research methodologies for understanding plant development.

Imprinted Brain (10 credits) - This module is based on Christopher Badcock’s 2009 book, The Imprinted Brain. Badcock suggests that imprinted genes influence our behavioral spectrum between autism and psychosis. Students will use an interdisciplinary approach to explore the genetics, pathology, socio-economic impacts, and cultural differences of these conditions. Offered in collaboration with Utrecht University, it includes distance learning.

Discovery Modules (Up to 20 credits) - As well as the compulsory and optional modules that make up your programme of study, you may be able to choose something different to your main subject as a Discovery Module.

Year 3

Compulsory modules

Applied Genetics (20 credits) - This module is based on Christopher Badcock’s 2009 book, The Imprinted Brain. Badcock suggests that imprinted genes influence our behavioral spectrum between autism and psychosis. Students will use an interdisciplinary approach to explore the genetics, pathology, socio-economic impacts, and cultural differences of these conditions. Offered in collaboration with Utrecht University, it includes distance learning.

Advanced Topics in Human Genetics (20 credits) - You'll gain a comprehensive insight into human genetics with an emphasis on disease. Specific topics discussed include telomere biology, epigenetics, DNA damage/repair, DNA recombination and genome integrity/stability.

Biology Integrated Research Projects (40 credits) - Undertake an independent research project chosen from diverse topics, reflecting the expertise of your lecturers. Projects can involve lab work, field research, data analysis, or literature reviews, covering areas like molecular genetics, physiology, behavior, marine biology, and ecology. You'll receive dedicated supervision from a leading expert in your chosen field.

Optional modules

40 credits from the following

Social Biology (10 credits) - This module explores the current research in the area of social biology. You’ll study aspects of social insect biology encompassing ecology, ecosystem services and evolutionary theory. This will be supported by lectures on other social animals, such as current research on social networks in vertebrates.

Advanced Topics in Evolution (20 credits) - You’ll participate in group studies of advanced, research-led topics in evolution. Topics may include emerging infectious diseases, variation and speciation, and symbiosis providing a range of approaches to evolution, from molecular to ecological.

Plant Development: Making a plant in theory and practice (20 credits) - You’ll cover the experimental approaches to understand modern plant science including the combination of molecular techniques with classical genetics to produce advances that would have been impossible without these approaches.

Cancer Biology (20 credits) - You’ll gain a comprehensive knowledge of a range of human cancers, from the molecular basis of cancer to the alterations in cells and tissues in cancers to current therapies.

Advanced Topics in Microbiology 2 (20 credits) - This is one of our flagship research-led modules in which you’ll become familiar with current research in a range of topics including respiratory infections and human-microbe interactions. The module is continuously refreshed with topics that reflect the cutting-edge research at Leeds.

Animal Developmental Biology (10 credits) - How does a single cell (a fertilised egg) give rise to the diversity of complex tissues, forms and functions seen in adult animals? In this module you will explore this question by examining critical developmental processes (including regeneration in adults) in diverse animals.

Animal Societies (10 credits) - You'll explore some of the most remarkable and successful life-history strategies that have evolved in animals – sociality and eusociality. You’ll focus on how these complex animal societies work – how they are organised, communicate and divide labour. You'll also delve into how these life history strategies evolve and the ecological importance of these remarkable animals.

Evolution and Population Genetics (10 credits) - You'll cover the nature of biological species and the roles of natural selection and drift in evolution and the attempts made and the problems encountered in interpreting genetic data to infer the history of populations (including human beings).

Discovery Modules (Up to 20 credits) - As well as the compulsory and optional modules that make up your programme of study, you may be able to choose something different to your main subject as a Discovery Module.

Learning and teaching

Our teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials and practicals (laboratory or field settings dependent on your degree). We take a student-centred approach to learning and so our teaching is designed to enable student engagement through active learning approaches that include creative problem-solving, team-work activities and mini-projects. In this way, you are able to apply the theoretical knowledge learnt to practical, real-life contexts. We put a high value on practical teaching and so a core part of your teaching will focus on developing hands-on practical and associated research skills.

Independent study is an important part of University learning and you will be expected to undertake private study. We will support you in becoming independent learners through our teaching approaches and through regular meetings with your personal tutor who is there to advise you academically.

We use a range of digital tools to enhance your learning. Through our Minerva learning management system, you will be able to access our extensive library of online materials, some of it designed specifically to support preparation prior to attending classroom sessions and discuss content with peers and teachers. In the classroom, educators use a variety of interactive digital tools to help you learn through discussion and debate. Laboratory practicals are accompanied by detailed online preparation guides and use of electronic laboratory notebooks to ensure you get the most out of your time and develop workplace skills. Field courses study the ecology, genetics, behaviour, development and adaptations of organisms in their natural environments.

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

We use a variety of assessment methods to help you develop a broad range of skills. These include practical work, data handling and problem-solving exercises, multiple-choice tests, group work, online and face-to-face discussion groups, computer-based simulations, essays, posters and oral presentations. We support students in their assessment journey through the provision of practice questions, sessions on how to complete assessment questions and feedback to support learning.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAB

Including biology and preferably another science or science-related subject. If biology is the only science subject then an A grade is required. Critical thinking and general studies excluded.

We accept the following:

• Science: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics.

• Science-related: computing, environmental science, food science, geography, geology, PE, psychology, statistics.

Applicants taking a Science A-level (in England) will be required to achieve a pass in the practical element in addition to the standard A-level grade requirement.

When an applicant is taking any of the following:

• Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

• Cambridge International Project Qualification (Cambridge IPQ)

• Core Maths (if A-level Maths or Further Maths isn't studied as a full A-level)

• AS Maths (if A-level Maths or Further Maths isn't studied as a full A-level)

• Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate

It will be considered alongside A-levels and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you are taking A-levels, this would be a 1 grade drop from the standard offer. For example an A in one of the above qualifications with ABB at A-level (BSc applicants).

GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English. The Faculty of Biological Sciences will accept Level 2 Functional Skills as equivalent to C/4 in GCSE English.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds offer

Specific A Level subjects required – see entry requirement section above.

GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.

Access to Leeds: Pass

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any component.. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: To be confirmed

International: £32,250 (per year)

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will be £9,250 for students starting in 2024/25.

The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation only, as a consequence of future changes in Government legislation and as permitted by law.

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. When the fee is available we will update individual course pages.

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2024/25 and 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2024/25 are available on individual course pages. Fees for students starting in 2025/26 will be available from September 2024.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Applying

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

We typically receive a high number of applications for this course. To ensure we treat all applications fairly, we may put your application on hold until after the UCAS deadline before making a final decision. All applications received before the UCAS deadline are guaranteed equal consideration. Please see our Admissions Guidance page for more details as well as advice on personal statements.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions guidance

Visit our admissions guidance page for more information about applying to undergraduate courses in the Faculty of Biological Sciences.

Application process

The Faculty of Biological Sciences may consider applications submitted after this date. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed by UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.

Alternative Entry Scheme for mature applicants

As per the information detailed in the corresponding section of the University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy the Faculty of Biological Sciences will consider prospective students via the Alternative Entry Scheme run by the Lifelong Learning where appropriate applicants will be referred to the Lifelong Learning Centre, who will advise the applicant further.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2025

This course is taught by

Faculty of Biological Sciences

Contact us

Faculty of Biological Sciences Undergraduate Admissions Office

Email: fbsadmissions@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Career opportunities

Our degree prepares you for a wide range of opportunities in scientific and non-scientific careers. Graduate prospects have been seen to be substantial in the field of genetics, leading to a high level of graduate employment after the course. Popular destinations include the NHS Science Training Programme for careers in clinical genetics and embryology and post-graduate qualifications leading to careers in industry and biotechnology.

Typical graduate careers include:

• Genetics research
• Genetic counsellor
• Clinical Scientist, genomics
• Scientific publishing and science journalism
• Sales and management in science-related industries
• Teaching

Examples of recent graduate destinations include:

• Biomedical Support Worker
• Laboratory analyst
• Postgraduate Research Assistant
• Teacher Training
• MSc Medical Genetics
• MSc Business with finance

Careers support

We have a dedicated student opportunity team in the Faculty of Biological Sciences who work closely with the University’s Careers Centre.

We offer numerous opportunities in addition to volunteering and placements. This includes our annual student-alumni networking event, where graduates are invited back to talk about their work and network with our students, and our STEM Careers Fair. The fair is an amazing opportunity for you to meet bioscience employers, such as AstraZeneca, Labcorp, GSK, Nuffield and NHS Ecological consultancies. You will be able to speak to alumni, attend workshops and more.

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more about Careers support.

Study abroad and work placements

Study abroad

On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

If you choose to undertake a study abroad option, you will spend the third year of your course studying abroad. This will extend your studies by 12 months.

Work placements

Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.

Industrial placements are taken after your second year. This will extend your studies by 12 months. For your work placement in industry, the staff at Leeds will help you with your CV and recruitment process and provide details of organisations.

Placements abroad are possible. We work together with your industrial supervisors to make sure you get the most out of this year. A year working in industry gives you an excellent opportunity to get used to the demands of the world of work, to develop new skills and to augment your CV.

Combined study and working abroad

Our new module allows you to combine both a study abroad and industrial work placement into one additional year of study. Over the year you will study for a semester at one of our partner universities and complete an industrial work placement for 6 months abroad or in the UK.

Find out more about Combined study and work abroad.

Field courses

Year 1: Coastal & Upland Habitats Field Course

You will take a combination of field studies at various sites on the Isle of Cumbra, Scotland, followed by laboratory-based analysis to develop skills in sampling and monitoring field populations, and identification of diverse organisms. Projects will involve developing hypotheses related to their ecology and testing these using appropriate analytical techniques.