Genetics with Industrial/Professional Experience: The University of Manchester

Course description

Genetics is the study of genes, from their structure and expression, to genome replication and maintenance. The first year consists of compulsory units including biochemistry and cell biology, providing a basis for specialisation in the second and third years.

The third year of this four year programme is the placement year, during which students complete a research project in an institution in the UK or abroad. The University assists students in finding placements and currently has established links with approximately three hundred institutions. Genetics students have recently had placements with organisations including GlaxoSmithKline and the Thomas Jefferson University.

Career opportunities

Genetics graduates from the University of Manchester go into a variety of careers. About half stay in the life sciences and related disciplines, choosing either to study further research or taught courses such as a Masters or PhD, which could lead onto a career in bioscience, or medicine/dentistry degrees. A significant number go on to complete a science teaching qualification, such as a secondary science PGCE. Graduates from 'with industrial/professional experience' programmes are extremely desirable to employers who require significant relevant work experience.

Those that choose a career outside of the life sciences are highly sought after by large multinationals. Graduate programmes in accountancy, finance, law, marketing and publishing are particularly popular choices for graduates from the Faculty who do not wish to stay in science.

Entry requirements

• English language: Either GCSE grade C, IELTS 6.5 (with not less than 6.5 in any component) or an equivalent qualification.
• A level:
  • Grades AAB-BBB. This should include:
  • 1 of Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Maths and
  • 1 of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Geography, Psychology, Environmental Studies or PE.
• AS level: 2 AS levels are acceptable in place of the third non-science A-level.
• Unit grade information: The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit grade information which, like all other available information, will inform the consideration of applications.
• GCSE: Minimum grade C in English Language and Mathematics.
• Key Skills qualification: The University warmly welcomes applications from students studying the Key Skills qualification.
• International Baccalaureate: 35-32 points overall including 5 or 6 points in two sciences at Higher level, normally Biology and Chemistry.