Genetics degrees abroad
Genetics is the scientific study of genes, hereditary and genetic variation. It’s a fascinating field that allows students to explore the structure and functions of living organisms in tremendous detail.
As well as examining how biological properties are passed down from one generation to the next, you’ll use genetic analysis to explain why characteristics vary between individuals and populations. You’ll get to grips with the theoretical underpinnings of evolution and natural selection, and consider the role of genetic make-up and cell mutations in disease development.
Some animal species and remote human populations are native to certain parts of the world. Studying overseas is a wonderful opportunity to take your learning beyond the classroom and observe these living organisms in their natural environments. You’ll extend your knowledge and build your professional skills, all while traveling the world and making new friends.


Genetics program structure
Studying genetics at the bachelor’s level requires three or four years of full-time study. Some university BSc programs integrate an additional 12-month placement between the second and final years, allowing students to gather valuable work experience.
If you’re interested in taking your degree stateside, remember that undergraduate programs in the US last four years and follow the liberal arts model. You’ll need to complete two years of general education before moving on to genetics-specific classes.
Genetics graduates are some of the most likely to take their education further and enroll in postgraduate programs. Master’s degrees can be studied over one of two years, whereas research-based PhDs can take up to seven or eight years of work.
Most programs blend lectures, tutorials, and seminars with practical workshops and hands-on laboratories. Typical assessment methods include examinations, research projects, written assignments and in-class tests.
Genetics is such a vast area of study, giving students plenty of elective modules and specializations to choose from. Nevertheless, you’ll need to develop a solid grounding in the subject by taking core classes like these:
- Genes, evolution and development
- Principles of hereditary
- Biochemistry
- Molecular biology
- Biodiversity
- Principles of human disease
- Molecular genetics
- Genetic manipulation and engineering
Best countries to study genetics
How to study genetics abroad
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Genetics study abroad programs
Genetics undergraduate programs
Bachelor's in genetics
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Genetics, Cancer and Personalised Medicine (Intercalated) - BMSc (Hons) University of Dundee, UK
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 1 year
- Annual tuition fee
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23,635 USD
Fee in university's local currency 17,275 GBP
- Start date
- September
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Biochemistry (Genetics) - BSc University of Birmingham, UK
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 3 years
- Annual tuition fee
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30,455 USD
Fee in university's local currency 22,260 GBP
- Start date
- September
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Biological Sciences (Genetics, Cell and Developmental Biology) - BSc Arizona State University, USA
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
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30,634 USD
Fee in university's local currency 30,634 USD
- Start date
- January, May, August
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Genetics and Cell Biology - BSc (Hons) (with foundation) Dublin City University, Ireland
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 5 years
- Annual tuition fee
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18,262 USD
Fee in university's local currency 15,000 EUR
- Start date
- September, February, June
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Genetics - BSc University of Otago, New Zealand
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 3 years
- Annual tuition fee
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16,096 USD
Fee in university's local currency 22,360 NZD
- Start date
- February, July
Genetics graduate programs
Master's in genetics
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Molecular Biology and Genetics - MSc Koç University, Turkey
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
-
0 USD
Fee in university's local currency 0 USD
- Start date
- January, August
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Ecology and Population Genetics - MSc University of Oulu, Finland
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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14,609 USD
Fee in university's local currency 12,000 EUR
- Start date
- September
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Medical Genetics - MPhil University of Newcastle, Australia
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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29,962 USD
Fee in university's local currency 38,825 AUD
- Start date
- February, July, September
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Genetics and Molecular Biosciences - MSc University of Helsinki, Finland
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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18,262 USD
Fee in university's local currency 15,000 EUR
- Start date
- September
Doctorate in genetics
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Molecular Biology and Genetics - PhD Koç University, Turkey
- Program type
- Doctorate
- Duration
- 3 years
- Annual tuition fee
-
0 USD
Fee in university's local currency 0 USD
- Start date
- January, August
Future genetics careers
Genetics graduates go on to launch fascinating careers across academia, research, pharmaceutical companies, healthcare, and bioscience industries.
Your expert knowledge and research skills will prepare you for success in any of the following positions.
- Geneticist
- Clinical scientist
- Research scientist
- Pharmacologist
- Science writer
- Lecturer
- Plant breeder
- Biotechnologist
Most universities have a career service that can help you search for internships, improve your interview technique and apply for jobs. They’re an excellent resource if you’re looking for some extra direction and guidance.
