BSc in Molecular and Medical Genetics

The Bachelor of Science in Biology (B.S.B.) at American University of Sharjah (AUS) offers an interdisciplinary education in life sciences, training students across fields like genetics, molecular biology, microbiology, ecology, and human biology. It suits students interested in scientific research, healthcare, environmental conservation, biotechnology, or graduate study, combining strong theoretical learning with practical laboratory, field, and research experiences. 

Curriculum structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students lay the groundwork for all biological sciences with foundational units that explore the breadth of life sciences — such as Genetics & Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Microbiology. These modules introduce key concepts like gene function, cellular systems, and microbial roles in health and ecosystems while laboratory work builds essential experimental skills. Early exposure also includes broader subjects such as Anatomy & Physiology, helping students connect biological structures to function and preparing them for more advanced study. 

Year 2:
During the second year, learners expand their scientific breadth by engaging with intermediate-level topics including Physiology and Neuroscience, which examine how complex biological systems operate and respond to change. Courses in Immunology introduce the body’s defense mechanisms, and units like Biological Conservation and Management ground students in ecological principles and environmental stewardship. Students begin connecting organismal and ecological perspectives, strengthening both conceptual understanding and investigative lab skills. 

Year 3:
In the third year, the curriculum deepens into applied and interdisciplinary areas such as Pharmacology and Disease Prevention, exploring how biological knowledge informs human health, drug action, and public health strategies. Electives like Behavioural Biology and Ecology broaden students’ view of organism interactions and ecosystems, while research-oriented lab work sharpens analytical and scientific communication skills. This stage pushes students toward independent inquiry, often integrating fieldwork, data analysis, and scientific reporting. 

Year 4:
The final year emphasises synthesis and professional preparation, including an Independent Study or Senior Research Project that allows students to conduct original research on a topic of interest. Advanced electives — for example in Marine Biology or Advanced Genetics — support specialization aligned with career goals, and capstone experiences prepare learners for entry into scientific careers or graduate programs. Throughout this year, students refine critical thinking, laboratory competency, and written and oral communication skills. 

Focus areas (in a string):
Genetics, molecular biology, microbiology, cell biology, anatomy & physiology, neuroscience, immunology, pharmacology, disease prevention, marine biology, conservation and ecology. 

Learning outcomes (in a string):
Understand core biological principles; apply scientific methods in lab and field research; analyse and interpret biological data; communicate scientific findings effectively; and address ethical and environmental issues in biological contexts. 

Professional alignment (accreditation):
AUS is accredited by the UAE Ministry of Education’s Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA), ensuring the Biology program meets recognized national quality standards for higher education. 

Reputation (employability rankings):
The American University of Sharjah is included in global university rankings such as the QS World University Rankings, reflecting its academic quality and supporting employability; biology graduates pursue careers in healthcare, research, environmental science, education, biotechnology, and related sectors.

Admission Requirements:
Applicants must hold a recognised secondary school certificate (typically with a minimum average equivalent to ~80–85 %) and demonstrate English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL iBT 80 or IELTS Academic 6.5). For those from American or similar curricula, minimum scores in mathematics and science subjects may be required, and SAT/ACT scores (particularly in Math) are often considered part of the competitive admission process.