Bachelor of Science (Genetics and Genomics)

Course Overview

Genetics and Genomics are fast evolving and exciting areas of the biological sciences involving the study and use of DNA-based data. Genetics is the study of how DNA in the cell provides the instructions for life, and also how it acts as the code that passes information from one generation to the next. Modern DNA sequencing technologies can now generate vast quantities of genetic data. Genomics is the study and analysis of these DNA-based data with the goal of making important discoveries in areas such as medicine, agriculture, climate science, evolution, the environment and biotechnology.

This programme is different in Ireland because it provide students with an educational experience that uniquely combines biology with mathematics and data science. If you like biology with mathematics, this course could be for you!

Study Abroad: You will have the opportunity to complete an Erasmus exchange for half of 3^rd Year at Uppsala University in Sweden or the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. Additional opportunities to study in the United States (e.g., University of California or in Asia (e.g., Hong Kong University of Science and Technology are also available. At these universities, you will study a range of subjects related to Genetics and Genomics and experience student life in a different environment and culture.

Careers: As a graduate, you’ll be prepared for many employment opportunities in multiple industries that will value your knowledge of biology and genetics and your genomics data analysis skills. These include genomic and life science companies, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, forensics and clinical diagnostics, biomedical devices and therapeutics, public health and epidemiology, agricultural and environmental sectors, as well as the information technology sector.

Graduates will gain the following from this programme:

• Expertise in modern biology and genetics.
• Laboratory skills in genetics and genomics, including the computational and analytical skills to handle big data.
• Creative problem-solving abilities, either working on your own or collaboratively as part of a team.
• Critical and objective thinking skills, demonstrating curiosity and independence of thought with an ability to synthesise, summarise and analyse data.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Professional awareness of scientific integrity and associated ethical implications of scientific activities.
• Effective leadership and project management skills to solve new challenges

Minimum Grade H5 in two subjects and passes in four additional subjects at O6/H7 level in the Leaving Certificate, including Irish, English, a laboratory science subject (i.e. Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Physics with Chemistry (joint),Computer Science or Agricultural Science) and any two other subjects recognised for entry purposes.

There is growing demand for individuals that have both an in-depth understanding of genetics and the numerical and computer skills required to investigate and interpret genomic data. This will offer our graduates opportunities in genomic and life science companies, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, forensics and clinical diagnostics, biomedical devices and therapeutics, public health and epidemiology, agricultural and environmental sectors, as well as the information technology sector.

Career Development and Employability Award

Our 3^rd Year includes the Career Development and Employability Skills module delivered by the Careers Development Centre within the University. Here students have the opportunity to reflect on their strengths, skills and career motivations. Students are helped develop a personal brand and promote self-presentation through CV, cover letter, interviews, networking and an online presence. By module end, students produce a career action plan and have their career development achievements recognised by securing the University’s Employability Award.

Study Abroad

Students have the opportunity to complete an Erasmus exchange for one semester of 3^rd Year at Uppsala University in Sweden or the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. Additional opportunities to study in the United States (e.g., University of California) or in Asia (e.g., Hong Kong University of Science and Technology) are also available. At these universities, students will study a range of subjects related to Genetics and Genomics and experience student life in a different environment and culture.

Student Awards for Academic Achievement

Students have the opportunity to compete for the James Houghton Award in 3^rd Year and the Marie Greally Award in 4^th Year (sponsored by the Irish Society of Human Genetics). Both are awarded to the student with the best overall mark at the end of the year.

Summer Internships

Students have the opportunity to apply for summer research studentships (e.g., from the Health Research Board, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences) to support eight week paid internships in university-based research laboratories in the summer between 3^rd and 4^th Year. This is an excellent opportunity for students to experience a research environment and learn new skills that will be useful when completing their final year research project.

Small class size

Students will benefit from group learning in a small class size with an average intake of 25 students.