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Genetics, also known as medical or clinical genetics, is the field of science concerned with genes and heredity. Medical genetics involves the role of genes in genetic disorders, the inheritance of characteristics and traits and the risk of individuals developing a genetic condition as a result of family history.

Genetics courses

There are many undergraduate Genetics courses in the UK, with undergraduate courses generally lasting for 3 years and involving practical research and work as well as academic study. Degree programmes in Genetics are currently available at the following universities in the UK:

• University of Dundee
• University of Hertfordshire
• King’s College, London
• University of Westminster
• University of East Anglia
• University of Nottingham
• University of Glamorgan
• University of Essex
• University of Aberdeen
• University of Liverpool
• University of Huddersfield
• University of Manchester
• Royal Holloway (University of London)
• University of Wolverhampton
• Durham University

Entry requirements vary according to which university you choose but most institutions will require minimum grads in Science-based subjects. You will need to check the entry requirements for the universities you are interested in before you apply and it is always a good idea to visit the university as well, so you can get a feel for the place and find out more about the course.

Postgraduate study

There are postgraduate courses available in Medical Genetics, with these courses designed to provide a more in depth study of medical or clinical genetics. MSc courses usually last either one year full-time or two years part-time. Courses are currently available at the following universities:

• University of Glasgow
• London Metropolitan University
• University of Manchester
• Newcastle University

Training to become a clinical geneticist

Clinical genetics is a specialist area of medicine and therefore it is essential to complete a medical degree, followed by foundation training and then further specialist training.