Those beautiful eyes you inherited from your dad are actually a complex science -- genetics. Geneticists study the molecular structure and function of genes and their behavior in order to understand how organisms inherit and then pass on characteristics to their offspring. You likely can already see how the concepts of heredity are important in medicine, but they are also very important to modern science and industry in areas such as biotechnology and agriculture. A genetics degree from Clemson is a strong preparation for many different careers.
Our students graduate with an excellent foundation for medical, veterinary or pharmacy school. You'll also be prepared to conduct graduate research in any discipline related to biology, such as bioinformatics, forensic technology or genetic counseling.

About
The first major-specific course required of freshman genetics majors is Careers in Genetics and Biochemistry. This introductory course brings in professionals to aid students in discovering the diversity of career opportunities available from this degree. This course also helps you become aware of professional organizations, ethical issues and the requirements for advanced studies.
In the first two years at Clemson, you'll take various science courses such as general and organic chemistry, biology, physics and mathematics. These will prepare you for upper-level course work that includes molecular biochemistry, molecular and general genetics, comparative genetics and population genetics. Additionally, you'll be able to tailor your degree to your specific interests by selecting from approved scientific courses such as microbiology, immunology, and human anatomy and physiology.
Genetics students spend quite a bit of time in Clemson's laboratories with our nationally recognized faculty. Our faculty have diverse research interests from alternative fuel to molecular parasitology. You also have a chance to participate in internships and study abroad, as well as join any of Clemson's hundreds of student organizations.
Requirements
Entry Requirements
For the 2022 admissions cycle, Clemson has adopted a test-optional policy. Applicants are not required to submit a standardized test score to be considered for admission to Clemson for the 2022-2023 academic year.
If you choose that test scores should be used, your scores must be submitted electronically by the respective testing agency. Clemson’s institutional code for SAT is 5111, and the code for ACT is 3842. Clemson super-scores both the SAT and the ACT. For the SAT, this means that the overall total SAT score will then be derived by taking the highest of the evidence-based reading and writing/math scores.
According to The ACT, superscoring at Clemson means that we “consider a student’s highest ACT section (or subtest) scores regardless of test date. The super composite ACT score is calculated as the average of the best ACT English, Reading, Math, and Science subject scores and is used as one of multiple factors in admission and financial aid.”
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 80
English Program Requirements
Fee Information
How to Apply
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Review important dates and deadlines.
The Clemson application opens August 1. Students must submit their application and all required credentials by May 1 for Fall entry or October 1 for Spring entry.
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Complete the application.
Submit your application through the Clemson Application, Coalition Application or the Common Application No preference is given to any application in the admission review process.
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Pay the application fee.
There is a $70 application fee. Clemson accepts all major credit cards.
Submit your academic credentials.
- If you are a transfer student, submit translated course descriptions for any coursework to be evaluated for Clemson academic credit.
Clemson University requires first-year applicants to self-report their high school transcripts. Students who are admitted to Clemson will be required to send official transcripts prior to enrollment. After submitting your application, a link to the SRAR system will be available in your Applicant Portal.
Learn more about how to complete your Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR)

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