Genetics (with integrated year in industry) BSc

Program Overview

The BSc Genetics (Integrated Year in Industry) program at Aberystwyth University blends theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Students gain foundational knowledge in genetics, evolution, and molecular biology through coursework and research methods. The mandatory year in industry provides invaluable work experience, allowing students to apply their skills, build industry connections, and prepare for careers as genetic technologists, clinical scientists, and researchers. The program emphasizes practical skills, professional development, and engagement in genetics-related debates, equipping graduates with a comprehensive education in genetics and its applications.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This program is a four-year BSc in Genetics with an integrated year in industry. It is designed for students fascinated by genetics and eager to tackle important scientific issues like genetic modification and disease prediction. The program is identical to the BSc Genetics (C400) except for the mandatory year of work experience. This experience must be relevant to the degree, will be assessed, and will contribute to the final degree grade. Students are responsible for securing their own work experience, with guidance from the Director for Employability. There is no guarantee of paid work experience. If a student cannot secure a placement, they must transfer to the BSc Genetics (C400) program. During the work experience year, students pay a discounted tuition fee.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Core Modules:
• Cell Biology (BR17520) - 20 credits
• Ecology and Conservation (BR19320) - 20 credits
• Genetics, Evolution and Diversity (BR17120) - 20 credits
• Microbial and Plant Diversity (BR19920) - 20 credits
• Skills for Biologists (BR16820) - 20 credits
• Optional Modules:
• Biological chemistry (BR17320) - 20 credits
• Comparative Animal Physiology (BR16720) - 20 credits
• Disease Diagnosis and Control (BR15420) - 20 credits

Year 2:

• Core Modules:
• Applied Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics (BR20620) - 20 credits
• Cell and Cancer Biology (BR25920) - 20 credits
• Chromosome Dynamics (BR21820) - 20 credits
• Evolution and Molecular Systematics (BR21720) - 20 credits
• Research Methods (BR27520) - 20 credits
• Optional Modules:
• Immunology (BR22220) - 20 credits
• One Health Microbiology (BR26520) - 20 credits
• Practical Skills for Biochemists (BR22920) - 20 credits
• Practical and Professional Skills in Microbiology (BR24720) - 20 credits
• Proteins and Enzymes (BR26620) - 20 credits

Year 3:

• Core Module:
• Integrated Year in Industry (BRS0060) - 60 credits

Year 4:

• Core Modules:
• Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics (BR37120) - 20 credits
• Biotechnology (BR35520) - 20 credits
• Molecular Biology of Development (BR36020) - 20 credits
• Research Project (BR36440) - 40 credits
• Optional Modules:
• Frontiers in Plant Science (BR35820) - 20 credits
• Global Biodiversity Conservation (BR33420) - 20 credits
• Molecular Pharmacology (BR36120) - 20 credits

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Essays
• Practical exercises
• Oral presentations
• Exams
Students may also be required to complete additional assignments and collaborate on specific tasks.

Teaching:

The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, practicals, and fieldwork. The teaching staff consists of PhD-qualified and research-active individuals, with some staff having industry backgrounds. Students may also interact with research-only staff.

Careers:

Graduates of this program have pursued careers as:

• Genetic Technologist
• Clinical Scientist
• Research Scientist
• Post-doctoral Research Associate
• MSc student in Developmental Biology
• PhD student
The integrated year in industry provides students with valuable experience, allowing them to:
• Apply course learning to a work environment
• Make industry contacts
• Develop practical skills
• Enhance their CV
• The program emphasizes practical skills, ensuring graduates are prepared for immediate practice.
• The program is taught by experts within an internationally recognized center of excellence.
• The program equips graduates with the skills to effectively communicate their science and participate in genetics debates.
• Students have access to a personal tutor throughout their degree course for academic and personal support.
• Students can complete a Personal Development Plan (PDP) to chart their personal, academic, and professional development.