Genetics BSc (Hons) - CK405

The BSc Genetics teaches you to understand how genes work in individuals and populations. This knowledge is fundamental to all areas of biological study, as genes carry the information which largely determines what we are and how we function in the environment. In this course, there is particular emphasis on the molecular basis of genetics, but all facets are covered throughout the degree and all graduates have a strong foundation in modern genetics. 

Year 1 is focused on foundation knowledge for Genetics and includes a module dedicated to Principles and Methods in Genetics - how genes work in individuals and populations, and how cutting-edge programmes such as the Human Genome Project revolutionising the way we tackle biological questions. Year 2 is designed to provide fundamental background knowledge in preparation for the specialisation in Genetics in years 3 and 4. Year 4 also includes a three-month project in the laboratory, during which time you receive training in the use of genetic approaches to solve a contemporary question or problem in biology. These projects are based in the departments that contribute to the Genetics course.

Year 1

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Mathematics.

Year 2

• Biomolecules
• Principles of Metabolic Pathways
• Current Perspectives in Genetics
• Fundamental Principles of Microbiology
• Introductory Molecular Biology
• Introduction to Plant Biotechnology
• Introduction to Biostatistics
• Vertebrate Diversity.

Elective Modules from:

• Habitats and Ecosystems
• Mammalian Cell and Tissue Structure
• Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry
• Ecological Plant Physiology.

Year 3

• Structural Biochemistry
• Cell Signalling
• Molecular Biology
• Principles of Medical Genetics
• Bioinformatics
• Literature Project on Genetics
• Population and Evolutionary Genetics
• Virology
• Genetic Engineering and Molecular Biotechnology
• Molecular Genetics and Genomics
• Immunology: host response to pathogens
• Plant and Animal Genetics.

Year 4

• Developmental Genetics
• Research Project
• Genomics and Applications
• Genetics and Society
• Advanced Bioinformatics
• Eukaryotic Molecular Genetics
• Molecular Biology and Physiology of Bacteria.

Elective modules (specialisation in specific areas is possible):

• Biostatistics
• Programming in Python
• Medical Microbiology
• Advanced Medical Microbiology
• Advanced Virology
• Advanced Cell Biology
• Cancer Biology/Molecular Oncology
• Advanced Immunology
• Genetic Manipulation of Plants.

See the Academic Calendar entry for this course for further details: http://www.ucc.ie/calendar/
science/sci002.html#CK405

Leaving Certificate entry requirements: HC3 in two subjects and passes in four other subjects at H or O level in the Leaving Certificate from Irish, English, Mathematics, one Laboratory Science subject (i.e. Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Physics with Chemistry (joint) or Agricultural Science) and two other subjects recognised for entry purposes.

Additional Requirements: HC3 in a laboratory science subject or mathematics or applied mathematics.

Mature applicants should apply directly through the CAO (www.cao.ie) and may be required to attend for interview. Applicants are assessed on the basis of academic and/or professional background in a science-related discipline, evidenced by exam results and their personal statement.

International Students should visit the International Education website:http://www.ucc.ie/en/study/international/noneu-ug/apply/.

EU Applicants: Application to the first year of the degree programme is made directly through the Central Applications Office (CAO). Applicants should apply on-line at www.cao.ie. The normal closing date for receipt of completed applications is 1 stFebruary of the year of entry.

Non-EU Applicants

Lectures and practicals are conducted between 9am and 6pm (Monday to Friday). Lecture hours: 288 (may include directed study/reading hours, depending on the module). Laboratory practical/tutorial hours: 216 per year approximately. The Year 4 also includes a three-month project, during which you receive training in the use of genetic approaches to solving a contemporary question or problem in biology. These projects are based in the departments that contribute to the Genetics degree.

End-of-year written examination, continuous assessment and oral (presentation) depending on module.

This is a multidisciplinary course and includes lecturing staff from a number of different departments in the College of Science, Engineering and Food Science, and project supervisors from the College of Medicine and Health.

Mary Cotter 

E: mary.cotter@ucc.ie 

T: +353 (0)21 4902861/2392