Students completing a Genetics major will be prepared for careers or advanced study which involve the application of fundamental genetics, genomics, evolutionary, population and ecological genetics to all areas of biology, biomedical sciences and biotechnology. Graduates will develop knowledge and skills in the theory of genetics and molecular biology, population genetics and evolution and in experimental design, data recording and analysis and scientific writing, which are essential preparation for roles in universities, research institutes, government departments, hospitals and in the biotechnology industry. This major will integrate knowledge across the breadth of genetics, including an integrated practical capstone subject in which the students develop an understanding of the application of experimental analysis to solving problems in biology. Students will gain experience preparing them for the workplace by participating in problem-solving, synthesis of information, written work, and independent as well as collaborative activities. The transferable skills developed in this major can be used in broad careers in science, including conservation, teaching, forensics, publishing, genetic counselling and research and in careers beyond the field of science. A Genetics major includes studies in molecular genetics, human genetics, evolutionary genetics and genomics – key foundational knowledge for studies in the fields of biology, biomedical sciences, biotechnology, ecology and conservation. You’ll also develop skills in experimental design, data recording and analysis, and scientific writing. Your major structure This major can be completed through the Bachelor of Biomedicine or the Bachelor of Science. BACHELOR OF BIOMEDICINE In your first year you will study 75 points of core subjects (usually six subjects) that most Biomedicine students will take to build an understanding of the structure and function of the body and consideration of the determinants of health and disease, including genetic and environmental influences. You will also undertake breadth studies. In second year you will study 50 points of core subjects made up of two semester long subjects as well as elective subjects in biomedicine or science disciplines and breadth studies. In your third year you will study 25 points (usually two subjects) of Biomedicine core subjects and 50 points (usually four subjects) that is deep and specialised study in genetics as well as other elective or breadth studies. Career outcomes After completing this major you might pursue career paths in science, including conservation, teaching, forensics, publishing, genetic counselling and research and in careers beyond the field of science. Earnings for life scientists, which includes Genetics, are above average and employment for this occupation is expected to grow moderately to 2019. Graduate degree pathways from this major GRADUATE RESEARCH Completing the Genetics major means you are very well placed for further study in honours and graduate research in a range of science and technology areas. If you wish to explore biomedicine research questions in greater depth, there will be opportunities to proceed to graduate research at honours, masters and doctoral level. Research training preparation within the honours year, a postgraduate diploma or a masters degree will be required as preparation for graduate research. Graduate pathways advice is available at the Health Hub to help you understand and plan your options for further study.