WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE THREE-YEAR BSc AND FOUR-YEAR MSci DEGREES?The NEW four-year MSci degree is an ADVANCED undergraduate initial degree, adding a further research-focused year to our current three-year BSc degrees. (MSci degree programmes of this type are also known as “Integrated Masters” or “Undergraduate Masters” and are financed by undergraduate student loans.) Most of the first three years will be in common with the BSc schemes, but the MSci offers specialist training in a broad range of laboratory techniques during the third year as preparation for an intensive advanced research project throughout the fourth year.As a result of the sequencing of the entire genome of many species, genetics is rapidly growing in importance. The same basic genetic principles apply to humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms such as bacteria. This gives flexibility to genetics graduates in future employment. Areas where genetics is important include the development of pharmaceuticals, forensic science, the treatment of diseases, the study of evolution, and the conservation of biodiversity. The Genetics course is intended for students who have studied Biology to A-Level (or equivalent). Although Chemistry to A-S or A-Level is recommended, we do consider students without chemistry qualifications. This course will appeal to students who are enthusiastic about understanding molecular mechanisms of heredity and evolution across a wide range of organisms. This degree will:• give you experience of techniques for analysing gene expression, protein interactions, DNA structure and damage, image analysis of biomolecules and cells, and advanced computer analytical methods.• prepare you for graduate training to be a doctor, dentist, or teacher, or for postgraduate or doctoral research.• provide you with transferable skills, including team working, communication, presentation, problem-solving, and analytical skills.In the final year, you will complete a research project under the guidance of a professional research scientist. By working as an independent researcher, you will develop effective project management skills and will be trained to design experiments and plan work programmes. This degree will prepare you for roles in a wide variety of professions, including the pharmaceutical industry, forensic science, and conservation biology. Our graduates have gone on to employment or further study in: university research, industrial research & development, clinical sciences, teaching, forensics, scientific management, medical sales, scientific publicity,graduate-entry medicine.SOME HIGHLIGHTS: *A progressive teaching and research environment with superb facilities for project work. In the 2014 Research Excellence Framework, which compared all UK research, we received the highest score for our excellent research environment and were second highest for overall research quality.*High levels of student satisfaction in the National Student Survey.*Exceptional graduate employability in these subject areas.*Located in one of the UK’s fastest growing Medical Schools teaching Graduate Entry Medicine (ranked 3rd in the UK). (Students are expected to provide their own lab coat and safety glasses for laboratory practical classes and project work. There will be an opportunity to obtain these after arrival at Swansea. A reading list will be made available before the course begins to all applicants holding offers of places.)