Genetics is the study of genes and their action. Genetics knowledge and methodology impact on our understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of life in all living organisms, which in turn help with the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases; crime and forensics; and ecology and conservation.

Programme structure

Our ability to determine and exploit the entire DNA sequence (genome) of an organism is revolutionising our understanding of the living world. Glasgow is one of the leading centres for teaching and research in genomics in the UK.

The methods used in genetics are being applied throughout biology and impact on such diverse areas as the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases, crime and forensics, and ecology and conservation.

Year 1

In your first year you will be given a general introduction to all aspects of modern biology and encouraged to acquire general scientific skills.

You will also study two other subjects of your choice in year 1: see Degrees in Arts, Science and Social Sciences.

Year 2

In your second year, you will be introduced to the study of genetics, proteins, nucleic acids and evolutionary biology. You will also be able to choose from a wide range of other courses.

You will also study one or two other subjects in year 2: see Degrees in Arts, Science and Social Sciences.

Years 3 and 4

If you progress to Honours (third and fourth years) you will develop

• an appreciation of the continuity of genetics
• the classical foundations of molecular genetics
• the application of both to understanding of populations and evolution.

During fourth year you will develop an appreciation of the broad application of genetics within modern biology, biotechnology and medicine. You will choose four advanced Honours option courses to study in greater depth and will also undertake an independent research project with one of the genetics research teams.

Laboratory work and small group teaching are important parts of the Honours programme, allowing you to develop problem-solving, group-working and communication skills.

Special features

Our international links

Career prospects

Glasgow International College

Academic entry requirements
for entry in 2014

BSc, MSci

Highers: AAAA or AAABB (including two science subjects) in first sitting = unconditional offer.

Applicants who achieved AAAB or AABBB (including two science subjects) at their first sitting WILL receive an offer from the University. This offer may be conditional (on second sitting results) or unconditional, depending on how many applications are received from students who have attained these grades.

Additional offers, either conditional or unconditional, MAY be made to applicants who achieved between ABBB and AABB (including two science subjects) at their first sitting. A decision re these applications will be made in March 2014 once all applications have been reviewed. 

Applicants who receive an offer conditional on second sitting results will be required to study Advanced Highers in relevant subjects as an integral part of their conditional offer. 

A-levels: AAB, including two science subjects. AS Level in either Biology or Chemistry. All Biology students study a minimum level of Chemistry in first year.

IB: A minimum of 34 points is required to be considered for an offer. Actual offers will specify subjects and grades to be attained at Higher Level.

Advanced entry

If you have exceptional A-level or Advanced Higher grades it's possible to gain exemption from Year 1 study and enter directly into Year 2 or follow a faster route advanced entry programme, both of which allow you to complete your degree in one year less than usual. See: Advanced entry

English language requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic module (not General Training):

• overall score 6.5
• no sub-test less than 6.0
• or equivalent scores in another recognised qualification (see below)
   

Common equivalent English language qualifications:

• ibTOEFL: 92; no sub-test less than 20
• CAE (Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English): B minimum
• CPE (Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English): C minimum
• PTE Academic (Person Test of English, Academic test): 60; no sub-test less than 59

Pre-sessional courses
The University of Glasgow accepts evidence of the required language level from the Language Centre Pre-sessional courses. We also consider other BALEAP accredited pre-sessional courses:

• Language Centre, University of Glasgow
• BALEAP guide to accredited courses 

FAQs

Visa requirements and proof of English language level

It is a visa requirement to provide information on your level of English based on an internationally recognised and secure English language test. All test reports must be no more than 2 years old. A list of these can be found on the UK Border Agency website. If you have never taken one of these tests before, you can get an initial idea of your level by using the Common European Framework self-assessment grid which gives you a level for each skill (e.g. listening B1/writing B2 etc.) However, please note that this is not a secure English language test and it is not sufficient evidence of your level of English for visa requirements.

For further information about English language, please contact the Language Centre.

Tuition fees

How and when you pay tuition fees depends on where you’re from: see Tuition fees for details. If you’re from outside the EU, please see International students for more information.

Scholarships

We offer a wide range of scholarships to our undergraduates, including both home/EU and international students. The University is committed to supporting students and rewarding academic excellence. That’s why we’ve invested more than £1m in additional scholarship funding over the last year.
 
For a full list of scholarships including eligibility criteria and how to apply, please see:

• Scholarships