Program Requirements
Genetics is the study of heredity. Genetics research takes many forms, from the study of heredity at the level of individual molecules to study at the level of cells and chromosomes, individuals, or populations. To comprehend current genetic information and to make future contributions to our molecular understanding of life processes, students must obtain a broad background in biology and a firm foundation in chemistry and mathematics. This is the basis of the genetics curriculum.
A degree in Genetics is a strong preparation for many careers. The degree provides an excellent foundation for medical, veterinary, or pharmacy school, as well as graduate research in any discipline related to biology, including bioinformatics, forensic technology, and genetic counseling. Because of the increasing emphasis on genetics in everyday life, a Bachelor of Science in Genetics can also be a direct path to a career in the emerging biotechnology industries (pharmaceuticals, agricultural technologies, biomimetic minerals) in research, sales, or business operations. Combined with a law degree, a genetics bachelor of science is a good background for a career as a patent attorney.
Total Semester Hours: 122
1 Medical, veterinary, and graduate school requirements often include two semesters of physics with calculus and the physics laboratory. Students are encouraged to check requirements for admission to professional postgraduate programs.
2 See General Education Requirements . Three of the Social Science Requirement credit hours must also satisfy the Cross- Cultural Awareness Requirement.
3 BIOL 2220 , BIOL 2230 , PHYS 2080 , PHYS 2100 , PHYS 2210 , PHYS 2230 , or any courses at 3000 level or above in BCHM, BIOE, BIOL, CH, GEN, MATH, MICR, PHYS or STAT. Other courses must be approved by advisor. A maximum of nine credit hours from undergraduate research courses (4910, creative inquiry or similar courses) may be used towards the combined science and genetics requirements.
4 AVS 4700 , BCHM 4310 , BCHM 4320 , BCHM 4330 , BCHM 4340 , BCHM 4360 , BCHM 4430 , BCHM 4910 , BIOL 3350 , BIOL 4400 , BIOL 4500 , BIOL 4540 , BIOL 4560 , BIOL 4570 , GEN 4700 , GEN 4910 , MICR 3050 , MICR 4150 , MICR 4170 , PES 4050 .
5 Two semesters of a modern language are strongly recommended. See Modern Languages Requirement at Clemson University statement in Academic Regulations .
Notes:
- A student is allowed to enroll in science and mathematics courses only when all prerequisites have been passed with a grade of C or better.
- A minimum grade of C is required in all science and mathematics courses. No student may exceed a maximum of two attempts, excluding a W, to complete successfully any science or mathematics course.
