BSc

Genetics and Biochemistry

Genetics and Biochemistry Code CC47 Attend an Open Day Attend an Open Day

Apply Now

The Genetics and Biochemistry degree at Aberystwyth University explores the interface between genetics — with its almost limitless potential to help understand human health and disease — evolution and the diversity of living things. Biochemistry provides a mechanistic understanding of how genes dictate the biology of an organism.

Hallmarks of this degree are the close integration of genetics and biochemistry to understand the molecular genetics of health and disease, and the prioritisation of the practical skills in demand by research and industry.

During your studies, you will develop a solid foundation of understanding in genetics and biochemistry, covering aspects such as human genetics, gene expression, developmental and cancer biology, biotechnology, genetic engineering and pharmacology. You'll also receive tuition in scientific protocol and the correct experimental methodology for recording, interpreting and reporting a variety of data.

At the conclusion of your studies, you will have developed the skills

needed to work in a range of professional laboratory environments.

Course Overview

Why study Genetics and Biochemistry at Aberystwyth University?

  • You'll study cancer biology, chromosome genetics, gene expression and development, evolution and population genetics, and biotechnology.
  • You'll be taught the application of molecular techniques including DNA manipulation, sequencing and analysis; gel electrophoresis for the separation and functional analysis of proteins; biophysical characterisation of enzyme-catalysed reaction kinetics and thermodynamics.
  • You'll have access to extensive research and teaching labs equipped with the latest state-of-the-art equipment, including microscopy facilities, high-throughput DNA sequencing, proteomics, metabolomics and spectroscopic platforms.
  • You'll have a guaranteed lab-based research project in your final year.
  • You'll receive tuition in scientific protocol and the correct scientific procedures for recording, interpreting and reporting data.
  • We place great emphasis upon practical skills so that our graduates become practitioners from the word go. We ensure that our graduates have the skills to communicate their science effectively so that they can join the often controversial genetics debates.

If you are interested in this course, then you may also be interested in our BSc Biochemistry (C700) or our MBiol Biochemistry (C709). We also offer students the option to study Genetics and Biochemistry with a year in industry (CC48).

Our Staff

The majority of teaching staff in the Department of Life Sciences are qualified to PhD level and are research active. Vocational courses also have staff whose background lies within industry. The Department has a large number of research only staff with whom students may have contact.

Modules September start - 2025

Please note: The modules listed below are those currently intended for delivery during the next academic year and may be subject to change. They are included here to give an indication of how the course is structured.

Core

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Biological chemistry BR17320 20
Cell Biology * BR17520 20
Comparative Animal Physiology BR16720 20
Genetics, Evolution and Diversity BR17120 20
Microbial and Plant Diversity * BR19920 20
Skills for Biologists * BR16820 20

Core

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Applied Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics BR20620 20
Cell and Cancer Biology BR25920 20
Chromosome Dynamics BR21820 20
Practical Skills for Biochemists BR22920 20
Proteins and Enzymes BR26620 20
Research Methods * BR27520 20

Core

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics BR37120 20
Biotechnology BR35520 20
Molecular Biology of Development BR36020 20
Research Project * BR36440 40

Options

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Frontiers in Plant Science BR35820 20
Molecular Pharmacology BR36120 20

* Also available partially or entirely through the medium of Welsh

Careers

Employability is embedded in our teaching. We are linked closely with The Biochemical Society and the Genetics Society, which are great platforms for students to network with others in their discipline.

Our students leave Aberystwyth University with skills including: 

  • research and data analysis skills;
  • enhanced mathematical and computational skills;
  • effective problem-solving and creative thinking skills;
  • a thorough grounding in information technology skills;
  • the ability to work independently;
  • time-management and organisational skills, including the ability to meet deadlines;
  • the ability to express ideas and communicate information in a clear and structured manner, in both written and oral form;
  • self-motivation and self-reliance;
  • team-work, with the ability to discuss concepts in groups, accommodating different ideas and reaching agreement.

What work experience opportunities exist whilst studying? 

Click here to find out about the various opportunities that our Aberystwyth University Careers team offer. 

Enhance your employability prospects with GO Wales and YES (Year in Employment Scheme) managed by our Careers department. 

Teaching & Learning

 What will I study?

The breakdown below will provide you with an illustration of what you may study during the three year degree scheme.

In your first year you will explore:

  • The diversity of biological disciplines which includes:
  • Structure and function of plants, animals and microbes at the organismal, cellular and molecular levels;
  • A solid grounding in biological chemistry and the molecules of life;
  • The principles underpinning modern genetics and inheritance;
  • The metabolic flow of energy and matter through living systems.

In your second year you will discover:

  • Cell biology and developmental biology;
  • Immunology and cancer biology;
  • Molecular biology and its applications;
  • Practical –based modules developing your research skills.

In your third year you will study:

  • Functional Genomics and other ‘omics technologies;
  • Gene expression and developmental genetics;
  • Pharmacology and toxicology;
  • And undertake a major research project.

How will I be taught?

The course will be delivered through lectures, workshops, tutorials and practicals. You will be assessed through:

  • Essays
  • Practical exercises
  • Worksheets
  • Literature reviews
  • Magazine articles
  • Reports
  • Statistical exercises
  • Posters
  • Presentations
  • Online tests
  • Reflective diaries
  • Exams

Student Testimonials

Genetics is at the cutting edge of the biological sciences. In the post genomic era, we are able to truly examine our biological programming at a molecular level. What I really enjoy about the course is that you have the ability to tailor it to your particular areas of interest, choosing your own combinations of modules which reflect the areas you want to explore most, all the while gaining valuable knowledge and practical experience to help shape your career path. Richard Cleverley

Biochemistry is a very interesting and competitive course which helps me to develop my knowledge and understanding of science and medical fields. Throughout the Biochemistry course I have developed my practical skills because I have spent a lot of time in the laboratories, taking part in many experiments during the academic year. Madalina Dragomir

My degree in Genetics and Biochemistry gave me a good grounding that prepared me very well for my PhD. In fact, one of the courses, Gene Expression and Developmental Genetics inspired me to work in the area of Developmental Biology, which is what I work at today. I will be eternally grateful for the chance I was given and the teaching I received
Roger – Professor of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen

Typical Entry Requirements

UCAS Tariff 120 - 104

A Levels BBB-BCC with B in Chemistry

GCSE requirements (minimum grade C/4):
English or Welsh, Science and Mathematics

BTEC National Diploma:
DDD-DDM in a specified subject

International Baccalaureate:
30-28 with 5 points in Chemistry at Higher Level

European Baccalaureate:
75%-65% overall with 7 in Chemistry

English Language Requirements:
See our Undergraduate English Language Requirements for this course. Pre-sessional English Programmes are also available for students who do not meet our English Language Requirements.

Country Specific Entry Requirements:
International students whose qualification is not listed on this page, can check our Country Specific Entry Requirements for further information.

The University welcomes undergraduate applications from students studying the Access to Higher Education Diploma or T-level qualifications, provided that relevant subject content and learning outcomes are met. We are not able to accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas or T-levels as a general qualification for every undergraduate degree course.
Our inclusive admissions policy values breadth as well as depth of study. Applicants are selected on their own individual merits and offers can vary. If you would like to check the eligibility of your qualifications before submitting an application, please contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for advice and guidance.

Back to the top