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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of EdinburghThe Biological Sciences (Molecular Genetics) BSc (Hons) immerses you in the captivating world of genetic mechanisms, exploring everything from gene regulation and RNA processing to epigenetics and cellular responses. It's ideal for students driven to understand how genes shape life and eager to contribute to cutting-edge advances in health, agriculture, and biotechnology.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
You will dive into a broad foundation in biological sciences—studying Biology 1A: Variation and Biology 1B: Life, honing your lab skills, computational thinking, and teamwork. Group-based laboratories and workshops will help you develop hypothesis design, data analysis, scientific writing, and reflective learning—supported by hands-on experiences like fieldwork at the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh.
Year 2
Year 2 builds on these foundations with deeper exploration of DNA replication and repair, cellular metabolism, biological regulation, and essential programming and data analysis techniques for modern biology. You'll also have flexibility through option modules in plant biology, microbiology, and evolution to tailor your interests before selecting your Molecular Genetics path in Year 3.
Year 3
This year, you engage with advanced molecular genetics through modules like analysis of genomic data, gene expression and RNA processing, genetic engineering, and cell cycle control. You’ll refine your analytical skills and fluency in scientific literature—gaining confidence in research through immersive, hands-on learning.
Year 4 (Honours Year)
Your final year dives into disease-related genetics, including studies on DNA repair defects, gene expression regulation, and host–parasite genetic interactions. This phase culminates in an individual research project in a university lab, supported by seminars and debates that polish your experimental design, critical thinking, and scientific presentation.
Focus areas (string):
"Genomic data analysis, gene expression & RNA processing, genetic engineering, cell cycle control, DNA repair mechanisms, gene regulation, host–parasite genetic interactions."
Learning outcomes (string):
"Develop advanced molecular biology lab skills, analyse genomic datasets, understand mechanisms underlying gene regulation and disease, communicate findings effectively, and conduct independent research."
Professional alignment (accreditation):
This intensive research-led degree isn't tied to a specific professional body, but it delivers skills—like experimental design, bioinformatics, and scientific communication—that are highly valued in research, biotech, healthcare, and postgraduate pathways.
Reputation (employability / rankings):
The University of Edinburgh consistently ranks in the Top 25 globally and Top 5 in the UK for Biological Sciences (QS by Subject), ensuring your qualification carries strong academic prestige and employer recognition.
You won’t just study molecular genetics — you’ll wrangle real data, tinker with leading-edge equipment, and dive into experiments that mirror real-world research environments. From day one, you’re immersed in labs and tech-rich settings where learning is active, collaborative, and hands-on:
Here’s how that plays out:
You learn in state-of-the-art laboratories and interactive computing studios, where you hone molecular genetics techniques, analyze genetic data, and build your experimental confidence
You access top-tier research facilities, including Edinburgh Genomics, EdinOmics, Flow Cytometry Core, Light Microscopy Core, and structural biology platforms — all essential for deep molecular and genomic work
You benefit from the support of the Edinburgh Genome Foundry and Edinburgh Protein Production Facility, helping you master DNA assembly, protein expression, and purification—cornerstones of molecular work
Collaborative spaces and cutting-edge centers like the Centre for Engineering Biology and Other Research Centres offer interdisciplinary project opportunities with peers and innovators
Fieldwork enriches your learning too — you’ll conduct investigations at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, bringing field-based experience into your molecular genetically-oriented learning
Graduates often launch into dynamic roles such as Molecular Biologist, Research Technician, Laboratory Technician, or Bioinformatics Analyst, carrying both technical proficiency and analytical thinking forward. With the university’s standout career support and proximity to leading research institutes, you’ll be perfectly positioned to excel in industry, healthcare, or academia:
Career Support Services: Edinburgh's Careers Service offers personalized 1:1 guidance, workshops on CVs and interviews, networking events, and access to MyCareerHub—available during your degree and for up to two years afterward.
Employment & Salary Outcomes: Around 80% of Biosciences graduates are working or studying 15 months post-graduation, with average starting salaries near £26,000, typically ranging between £23,000 and £32,000.
University–Industry & Research Connections: You’ll study close to world-renowned facilities like the Roslin Institute, the Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, and Edinburgh BioQuarter, offering rich research and industry linkages.
Academic Prestige & Value: The University of Edinburgh ranks among the UK’s top 5 and world’s top 25 in Biological Sciences (QS Subject Rankings), enhancing your degree’s long-term recognition and value.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni go on to diverse roles in research, clinical science, policy, biotech, and education—demonstrating the adaptability of expertise gained through this pathway.
Further Academic Progression
If you’re aiming to continue academically, this degree opens pathways to MSc degrees in fields like Genomic Medicine, Bioinformatics, or Quantitative Genetics, or to PhD research programmes within the University’s research ecosystem, such as at the Roslin Institute or Cancer Research Centre.
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, PTEAchieve A Levels typically at ABB including Biology and Chemistry, with an A in one of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or PhysicsMeet the International Baccalaureate requirement of 32–37 points with Higher Level Biology and Chemistry at grade 5 and strong performance in other subjectsDemonstrate English proficiency with IELTS 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in each component) or TOEFL iBT 92 overall (minimum 20 in each component)Provide one academic reference as part of the UCAS application (two are not required at undergraduate level)Clinical Research AssociateHealthcare Scientist (Genomics)Healthcare Scientist (Immunology)PharmacologistPlant Breeder/GeneticistBiomedical ScientistBioinformatics SpecialistGenetic CounsellorBiotech Product Development ScientistUniversity Lecturer/Researcher
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