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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of EdinburghThe Biological Sciences (Genetics) BSc (Hons) immerses you in the mechanics of genetic inheritance, from molecular pathways to evolutionary patterns, preparing you for a future in health, research, conservation, or biotech. This programme suits inquisitive students eager to combine practical lab work, data analysis, and critical thinking across genetics, disease, and diversity.
Curriculum structure
Year 1
You’ll begin with shared core modules like Biology 1A: Variation and Biology 1B: Life, expanded through practical labs, group workshops, and fieldwork (e.g., Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh). Here, you'll develop foundational skills in hypothesis generation, experimental design, coding basics, self-reflection, and scientific communication.
Year 2
Your second year deepens analytical and experimental capability through study of DNA replication and repair, natural selection, and data science techniques like programming for biological analysis. Elective courses let you explore related fields—from animal evolution to plant biology—before you choose your specialist honours path.
Year 3
This is where you truly specialise in genetics, studying genomic data analysis, patterns in population variation, and mechanisms of genetic stability and instability. Intensive lab-based learning and critical engagement with scientific literature sharpen your research and analytical skills.
Year 4 (Honours Year)
In your final year, you’ll conduct an independent research project in a lab, dive deeper into select topics like RNA processing or evolutionary genetics, and build confidence through seminars and scientific debate—advanced training that primes you for research, postgraduate study, or industry roles.
Focus areas (string):
"Genetic variation, molecular and cellular genetics, genomic data analysis, population genetics, genetic stability and instability, evolutionary and disease genetics."
Learning outcomes (string):
"Design and perform genetic experiments, interpret genomic and population data, apply programming in data analysis, critically assess scientific literature, and execute an independent lab-based research project."
Professional alignment (accreditation):
This research-driven degree is not a vocationally-accredited course, but it provides highly employable expertise in lab methods, data science, and genetics—well aligned with roles in research, biotechnology, healthcare, and conservation.
Reputation (employability / rankings):
The University of Edinburgh ranks among the UK’s top 5 and world’s top 25 for Biological Sciences in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, showcasing its research strength and graduate outcomes.
From the very first year, you won't just learn about genetics — you'll do genetics. In this programme, you'll build experimental and computational skills through real-world lab sessions, collaborative workshops, and field-enhanced data analysis, preparing you to think critically, code confidently, and conduct meaningful science from day one:
Here’s how that comes alive for you:
Research-grade laboratories & interactive computing studios: You’ll conduct genetics experiments and practice bioinformatics in well-equipped labs and dynamic computing environments.
Group workshops & collaborative sessions: Hands-on activities like hypothesis testing, scientific coding, and ethical discussions happen in small groups — perfect for developing teamwork and communication skills.
Local fieldwork opportunities: Explore evolutionary and ecological questions beyond the lab with field visits to places like the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, applying inquiry techniques in real-life contexts.
Access to advanced research infrastructure: As a genetics student, you'll benefit from world-class facilities, including the Edinburgh Genome Foundry (automated DNA assembly), high-throughput genomics via Edinburgh Genomics, multi-omics platforms, microscopy, flow cytometry, and growth spaces.
Vibrant research environment: With over 130 research groups across institutes like the Institute of Genetics & Cancer, Roslin Institute, and more, you're immersed in a rich scientific ecosystem that fuels innovation and learning.
Graduates frequently step into roles like Genetic Analyst, Bioinformatics Specialist, Clinical Research Technician, or Science Communicator — career-ready with high-demand skills in genetics and data. What’s more:
Career Support Services: The University’s Careers Service offers personalized 1-on-1 guidance, CV and interview coaching, Alumni networking, and access to MyCareerHub for internships and graduate jobs — with support available for up to two years after graduation.
Employment & Salary Outcomes: Around 80% of biosciences graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating, with median salaries around £25,000 (15 months post-graduation), rising to £31,500 after 5 years.
University–Industry & Research Links: You’ll be immersed in a high-impact research environment, connected to prestigious institutes like the Institute of Genetics & Cancer, Roslin Institute, and Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, providing pathways for placements, projects, and postgraduate study.
Long-Term Value & Reputation: Edinburgh’s Biological Sciences graduates benefit from global credibility—15% of its research is rated ‘world-leading’ in REF 2021, and the university ranks among the top 25 worldwide for Biological Sciences.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni go on to a wide spectrum of roles, including academia, biotech, healthcare, policy, and science education — reflecting the flexible, transferable strength of the degree.
Further Academic Progression
If postgraduate study is your goal, this honours degree sets you up perfectly for advanced routes like MSc in Genomic Medicine, Quantitative Genetics, Bioinformatics, or PhD research in genetics or biomedical sciences — many within the University’s world-class research institutes.
UCAS Application, UCAS Personal Statement, UCAS Reference, A Levels: ABB. GCSEs: English at Grade B or 6. Mathematics or Physics at Grade B or 6. Test scores: IELTS, TOEFL, PTEA-Levels – AAA–ABB in one sitting, including Biology and Chemistry at grade B, with an A in one of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, or Physics.International Baccalaureate (IB) – 37 to 32 points, HL Biology and Chemistry at grade 5, SL Mathematics or Physics at 6, and English SL at 5.UCAS Application – Requires qualifications, personal statement, English language proof (if needed), and one reference; you can only apply once for a Biological Sciences degree but may switch specialisms later.Biological and Biomedical SciencesAquatic BiologyConservation BiologyEcologyEnvironmental BiologyMolecular Biology and GeneticsStem Cell and Regenerative BiologyImmunology and Infection BiologyPlant Science and BiotechnologyZoology and Animal Behaviour
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