BSc Hons Genetics

On the Genetics degree at York, you won’t just be sitting in lectures — from day one you’ll be learning by doing. The course is designed to give you plenty of hands-on practice in the lab, experience with advanced equipment, and the chance to work on real research questions. You’ll also have opportunities to step outside the classroom — whether that’s through placements, summer internships, or even spending a year abroad. York has invested heavily in its facilities (over £20 million), so you’ll be working in modern labs and learning spaces that mirror what professionals use in industry and research.

Here’s a closer look at the kinds of practical experiences you’ll get:

• State-of-the-art research labs: You’ll train in York’s Bioscience Technology Facility, using tools for imaging, cytometry, genomics, proteomics and more.

• Cutting-edge genomics equipment: Learn techniques like DNA sequencing (both short- and long-read), quantitative PCR, and single-cell sequencing — the same methods driving breakthroughs in medicine and biotech.

• Dedicated teaching labs and computer suites: Here you’ll run experiments, analyse data, and use software such as RStudio for statistics and bioinformatics.

• Collaborative projects: Many modules involve team-based research, group workshops, and presenting your findings, helping you build both scientific and communication skills.

• Placements and year abroad options: Choose to spend a year working in industry or studying overseas, adding valuable professional and global experience to your degree.

• Paid summer research internships: Get the chance to work alongside York’s academics and research groups, building your CV and gaining insight into careers in science.

• Specialist facilities for plant and environmental genetics: Make use of greenhouses, growth chambers and controlled environment rooms to study genetics in action.

• Study spaces tailored for biosciences: From the Biology Creative Lounge to the Think Tank, you’ll find spaces for group work, quiet study, and access to lecture recordings to review material at your own pace.

A Genetics degree from York sets you up for a wide range of careers. Many graduates go on to become research scientists, genetic counsellors, or work in biotech and pharmaceutical companies. Others take their skills into healthcare, conservation, or government roles — the degree really does give you the flexibility to follow your interests.

Here’s what that could look like in practice:

• Tailored career support: York’s Careers Service offers CV feedback, interview prep, employer networking events and internship opportunities. The Biology Department also connects you with paid summer research internships and options for a year in industry.

• Strong outcomes and salaries: Biology graduates from York typically earn around £24,000–£25,000 within 15 months of finishing their degree, rising to about £31,500 after five years (Discover Uni data).

• Industry experience built in: With the option of an industry placement year and links to biotech, pharma and medical research organisations, you’ll graduate with experience that employers recognise.

• Professional recognition: The course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, which means your degree counts towards achieving Chartered Biologist (CBiol) status later in your career.

• Great graduate outcomes: Most York biology graduates move quickly into work or further study, thanks to the mix of research training, practical lab experience and professional opportunities offered during the course.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’d like to continue your studies, you’ll have lots of options. Many students go on to a Master’s in areas like genetics, genomics, molecular biology or bioinformatics — some stay at York, others move elsewhere. You could also take the research route with a PhD, or choose a more applied pathway such as training in genetic counselling, patent law for biotech, or other professional qualifications in healthcare and life sciences.