Genetics
(MSci) Genetics
Entry for 2026
FHEQ level
This course is set at Level 7 (Masters) in the national Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.
Course learning outcomes
Demonstrate a broad understanding of the processes, mechanisms and interconnectedness of life, from molecules to cells to organisms to ecosystems that is informed by current genetic research.
Demonstrate detailed knowledge of the molecular basis of genetics and the mechanisms of gene expression, and a broad understanding of how prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells (in unicellular and multicellular organisms) are suited to their biological functions and execute cell metabolism.
Apply the principles that determine chemical reactions and interactions and the 3D structure of biological macromolecules to explain how structure enables function (including the role of enzymes).
Demonstrate a broad understanding of the techniques of modern genetics and genomics (and biochemistry), including the handling with bioinformatics of large data sets, and the insights that they can bring to evolution, bioscience, medicine and disease.
Demonstrate knowledge of contemporary research and concepts in genetics, and an understanding of how evolution underpins bioscience.
Plan, execute and present an independent research project, involving data collection or evaluation of the primary scientific literature, within a supported framework.
Apply numerical, statistical and critical skills to properly evaluate findings obtained through established genetic techniques, and demonstrate an understanding of how these techniques are used to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline
Demonstrate a conceptual understanding of ethical issues and the impact on society of advances in genetics research, and of the importance of academic integrity and the role of intellectual property rights in research.
Communicate genetics topics and biological ideas, problems and solutions to specialist and non-specialist audiences in oral and written form, including citation and referencing of sources and the use of electronic sources.
Demonstrate ability to work effectively in teams, and have demonstrated skills in identifying targets and working cooperatively towards them, with recognition of the skills and opinions of others.
Demonstrate qualities and skills necessary for graduate employment including initiative, personal responsibility, decision making, ethical judgement, innovation and updating knowledge through professional development.
Communicate genetics topics and biological ideas, problems and solutions to specialist and non-specialist audiences in oral and written form, including citation and referencing of sources and the use of electronic sources.
Demonstrate originality and self-direction in the application of biological knowledge, and practical understanding of research techniques, to create and interpret knowledge, tackle and solve problems, and deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively.
Through the execution of a research project, demonstrate comprehensive understanding and practical competence in one or more laboratory (or bioinformatic) methods used in contemporary research in genetics.
Demonstrate oral and written communication skills needed to write a scientific paper and to present findings in a research seminar, by critically evaluating methodologies and hypotheses.
For information on the composition of this course please see either the on-line Undergraduate prospectus for undergraduate related courses or the on-line Postgraduate prospectus for postgraduate related courses.
More detailed information on the course structure and modules within this degree will be available on this page shortly.
Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.
The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.