Program Overview

Introduction to the Genetics Program

The Bachelor of Science in Genetics at Xavier University offers a comprehensive exploration of the field of genetics, from mutations and inheritance to genomic sequencing and bioinformatics. This program provides hands-on experience through laboratory research and internships, preparing students for successful careers in genetics or related fields.

Program Overview

The BS in Genetics program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the principles of genetics and their applications in various fields. The program includes a range of courses that cover the fundamentals of genetics, including molecular genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the BS in Genetics program includes the following courses:

• BIOL 160: General Biology I
• BIOL 161: General Biology I Lab
• CHEM 160: General Chemistry I
• CHEM 161: General Chemistry I Lab
• STAT 146: Biostatistics or Mathematical Perspective Elective
• THEO 111: Theological Foundations
• CORE 101: Goa I
• BIOL 162: General Biology II
• BIOL 163: General Biology II Lab
• CHEM 162: General Chemistry II
• CHEM 163: General Chemistry II Lab
• ENGL 101: English Composition
• CORE 100: First Year Seminar
• CORE 101: Goa I
• BIOL 240: Evolution
• CHEM 240: Organic Chemistry I
• CHEM 241: Organic Chemistry I Lab
• STAT 146: Biostatistics or Mathematical Perspective Elective
• Second Language Elective I
• BIOL 299: Professional Communication in the Sciences
• BIOL 230: Genetics
• BIOL 231: Genetics Lab
• CHEM 242: Organic Chemistry II
• CHEM 243: Organic Chemistry II Lab
• PHIL 100: Intro to Ethics
• Second Language Elective II
• BIOL 232: Genomics OR BIOL 358: Adv. Molecular Biology
• BIOL 364: Virology or Biology Elective
• CHEM 440: Biochemistry I
• ENGL 205: Literature and Moral Imagination
• HIST 199: Historical Persp. Elective
• BIOL 360: Cell Biology OR BIOL 430: Medical Genetics (E/RS flag)
• Biology Elective
• PHIL 200: Philosophical Perspective Elective
• Social Science Elective
• Writing Flag Elective
• Capstone (≥ 2 credits required)
• BIOL 232: Genomics OR BIOL 358: Adv. Molecular Biology
• BIOL 364: Virology OR Biology Elective
• Theological Perspective Elective
• Solidarity and Kinship Flag Elective
• Capstone (≥ 2 credits required)
• BIOL 360: Cell Biology OR BIOL 430: Medical Genetics (E/RS flag)
• Humanities Elective
• Creative Perspectives Elective
• General Elective

Outcomes

The BS in Genetics program at Xavier University has a strong track record of success, with 98% of students working, volunteering, or in graduate school within six months of graduating. The program also has a high medical school acceptance rate, with a 5-year average of 86% compared to the national average of 40%.

Sample Courses

The program includes a range of sample courses, including:

• Genetics/Genetics Laboratory (BIOL 230/231)
• Virology (BIOL 364)
• Medical Genetics (BIOL 430)
• Biochemistry (CHEM 440)
• Biostatistics (STAT 146)

Clubs

The program offers a range of clubs and organizations, including:

• Alpha Epsilon Delta (Pre-Med Honor Society)
• Biology Club
• Minorities in STEM Succeeding Together
• Pre-Med Student Association

Related Programs

The program is related to a range of other majors and minors, including:

• BS in Biochemistry
• BS in Biological Sciences for Business
• BS in Biology
• BS in Biomedical Sciences
• BS in Chemistry
• BS in Neuroscience
• BS in Pharmaceutical Science
• Biochemistry
• Bioinformatics
• Biotechnology
• Biomedical Sciences
• Chemistry
• Clinical Science Management
• Health, Ethics and Spirituality
• Medical Humanities

Program Features

The program offers a range of features, including:

• Build lab research skills
• Gain valuable hands-on experience
• Develop critical research skills
• Contribute to the ever-expanding field of genetics
• Undergraduate research
• Mentorships that shape your future
• Connect with inspiring mentors
• Achieve your health-career goals
• Pre-professional health advising
• Education for the greater good
• Explore profound ethical questions in the field of genetics

FAQ

The program has a range of frequently asked questions, including:

• What jobs can you get with a degree in genetics?
  • Research Scientist
  • Genetic Counselor
  • Biomedical Scientist
  • Forensic Scientist
  • Bioinformatician
  • Science Writer or Educator
  • Health-related careers
• What labs and research facilities are available for genetics majors?
  • 14 research laboratories with state-of-the-art research equipment
  • Opportunities to work directly with professors in hands-on research experiences
  • Nearby world-class healthcare facilities and biotechnology companies
• How does Xavier’s Pre-Professional Health program benefit students in the genetics major?
  • Personalized academic advising
  • Peer mentoring
  • MCAT preparation
• Does Xavier offer an honors program for students in the genetics major?
  • Yes, the University Scholars Honors Program offers students a more challenging curriculum and close support from professors.