Program Description

Explore the genetic basis of cell function and disease in BSc. This course spans human, plant and microbial genetics, genomics and molecular biology, and gives students the opportunity to do a year-long, paid work placement as part of their degree.

The University of Sheffield's students have found placements at global pharmaceutical companies such as GSK, Pfizer and Unilever, but placements do not have to be in the lab. For example, students could apply their scientific knowledge outside of the bioscience industry in areas including market research, communications, or business development. A placement is a great opportunity to test out a career path and many students are offered a graduate-level job at the end. Students will pay reduced fees for the year they're on placement and they will still have same value-added support from their tutors and the University.

During their time at Sheffield, students will study the structure and expression of genes, inheritance and mutations, and learn about the latest molecular techniques for modifying genes, including CRISPR. Students will learn how modern genetics help researchers understand and treat a range of diseases, as well as tackle global challenges like food sustainability and security.

From their first year, students will study modules that span the molecular biosciences covering genetics, biochemistry and molecular and cell biology. Alongside these modules, students will have the freedom to explore complementary topics across the breadth of bioscience, such as microbiology, biomedicine, ecology, plant science and zoology, so they have the option to study genetics in greater depth, keep their interests broad or even switch to another degree programme within the biosciences.

No matter what modules students choose to study, they will develop the practical laboratory and transferable skills that make graduates attractive to employers, including project management, problem solving, communication skills, and data analysis.