Students completing a Genetics major will be prepared for careers or advanced study which involve the application of fundamental genetics, genomics, evolutionary, population and ecological genetics to all areas of biology, biomedical sciences and biotechnology. Graduates will develop knowledge and skills in the theory of genetics and molecular biology, population genetics and evolution and in experimental design, data recording and analysis and scientific writing, which are essential preparation for roles in universities, research institutes, government departments, hospitals and in the biotechnology industry. This major will integrate knowledge across the breadth of genetics, including an integrated practical capstone subject in which the students develop an understanding of the application of experimental analysis to solving problems in biology. Students will gain experience preparing them for the workplace by participating in problem-solving, synthesis of information, written work, and independent as well as collaborative activities. The transferable skills developed in this major can be used in broad careers in science, including conservation, teaching, forensics, publishing, genetic counselling and research and in careers beyond the field of science.
Intended learning outcomes
Genetics Major Graduates should demonstrate:
- a broad knowledge of genetic principles and of different methods of genetic analysis;
- an appreciation of how genetic principles and experimentation can be used to understand the biology of diverse organisms at different levels;
- ability to identify significant theoretical and technical advances in the discipline of genetics and the relationship between genetics and other disciplines in biology;
- capacity to apply appropriate methods in genetics to solve problems in biology;
- capacity for scientific reasoning, problem solving and research skills;
- proficiency in the analysis and interpretation of data derived from direct experimentation and from the literature;
- ability to identify and interpret scientific literature relevant to a topic in genetics;
- effective writing and oral presentation skills to communicate research findings;
- ability to work effectively, responsibly and safely in an individual or team context; work collaboratively to accomplish common goals; understand and apply laboratory safety measures;
- Independence and self-direction in their learning and ability to set their own goals and effectively manage their time and priorities;
- high level of professional integrity; understanding of the requirements for personal and collective laboratory safety; understanding of the ethical requirements regarding plagiarism and accurate data reporting and analysis.
Last updated: 16 March 2020