About Genetics (bsc (hons)) in University College Cork

Genetics is fundamental to all areas of biological study, as genes carry the information which largely determines what we are and how we function in the environment.

The BSc Genetics will teach you to understand how genes work in individuals and populations. There is a particular emphasis on molecular genetics but the course covers a wide range of topics such as classical medical genetics, evolutionary and population genetics, animal breeding and genetic manipulation of animal and plant genomes, etc.

In Year 1 you will focus on foundation knowledge for Genetics, including how genes work in individuals and populations and how cutting-edge programmes such as the Human Genome Project are revolutionising the way we tackle biological questions.

Year 2 is designed to provide fundamental background knowledge in preparation for the specialisation in Genetics in Years 3 and 4.

Year 4 also includes a three-month project in the laboratory, during which time you will receive training in the use of genetic approaches to solving a contemporary question or problem in biology. These projects are based in the departments that contribute to the Genetics course.

Skills and Careers Information

The following companies have recently recruited students from the course:

• Abtran
• Advertising Standards Authority
• Anulab CUM
• Biosciences Institute
• Clonakilty Community Hospital
• Education and Research Center
• Eirx Therapeutics
• Human Genetics Division, University of Southampton
• Kerry Ingredients
• Kostal
• Lavanagh Centre
• Millipore
• NASA Space Station
• Nottingham Hospital
• Quintiles
• Science Recruitment Ireland
• University College Cork
• University of Texas
• Vistakon Limerick
• Wyeth Biopharma.

Graduates have also been successful in securing a broad range of graduate courses in related and non-related areas including accounting, tax, and human resources.

Academic qualification equivalents

 1.    All India Senior School Certificate 

 2.    Higher Secondary Certificate / Standard 12 

 3.    Indian School Certificate (Year 12) 

Band 1 Programmes

Minimum average of 90% + in any of the recognised secondary school qualifications.

Band 2 Programmes

Minimum average of 80-89% in any of the recognised secondary school qualifications.

Band 3 Programmes

Minimum average of 75-79% in any of the recognised secondary school qualifications.

Additional Requirements

Where Maths is required for a specific degree programme, a minimum score of 85% in Maths is required.

Where a Lab Science subject is required for a specific degree programme, a minimum score of 85% is required in the appropriate Lab Science subject.

English language requirements (one of the below):

• IELTS: 6.5  Minimum individual sections 5.5
• TOEFL: TOEFL 90  Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing 17
• PTE: 63 Minimum individual sections 51

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