Course details

Summary

In Massey’s Bachelor of Science (Genetics) you will learn about the discoveries that are changing how we think about who we are as humans. Genetics is a rapidly-changing and fascinating area of science.

What is it Like?

Become part of the spectacular advances being made in medicine, agriculture and environmental science through modern genetic analysis and next generation technologies.

Join a core science discipline

The explosion of information concerning the dynamic nature of our world comes from so called “next generation DNA sequencing technologies” that are helping us to answer big questions of our time. These discoveries are changing our understanding of the world around us and what we know about who we are as humans. Today sequencing the genome of organisms is a basic activity behind much scientific research.

First university to offer genetics

Massey was the first university in New Zealand to offer a programme in genetics. With Manawatu campus’ strengths in agricultural sciences students with an interest in that general area can combine genetics with courses in animal and plant breeding. Massey Auckland and Manawatu have a very strong reputation in molecular evolution and phylogenetic which marry with genetics particularly well.

Topics

Some of the topics taught in genetics courses include:

• Biology and genetics of micro-organisms
• Genes and gene expression
• DNA technology
• Genetic analysis
• Human genetics
• Gene regulation
• Practical genetics
• Bioinformatics and genomics
• Cell signalling

Career-ready

At Massey we incorporate the structure, function and history of genetics in your learning so you gain skills and knowledge of cutting-edge techniques, developments and research all relevant to your future job. For example, you’ll learn about the new era of personal genomics - an area with vast opportunities and equal controversy. By understanding the science and the debate on personal genetic information, corporate access to it and the bioethics you will learn to evaluate and create solutions to meet future needs.

As part of your studies you will also develop the communication and quantitative skills that are important for many careers. These are skills that employers are looking for across a wide range of industries and science-related organisations.

Graduates in genetics from Massey University hold a wide range of positions both in New Zealand and overseas, such as:

• Biotechnology industries
• Laboratory research positions
• Molecular diagnostics
• Scientific sales
• Plant and animal breeding
• Government regulatory agencies
• Teaching
• Biological information technology
• Producer boards
• Scientific journalism

As a graduate you may also find employment in a variety of industries whose core business involves biological products.

If you continue to a BSc(Hons) or MSc degree you will be even more marketable for positions in industry and government-funded institutions.

Note: July start will take 3.5 years to complete

Entry criteria

Students must have successful completion of a qualification equivalent to the New Zealand Year 13 - NCEA Level 3 University Entrance.

It is strongly recommended (but not compulsory) that students beginning their study of genetics should have a sound background in biology and chemistry at NCEA Level 3 (or equivalent).

English Language Requirements:

• IELTS score of 6.0 (no band less than 5.5)
• TOEFL iBT score of 80 overall (min 19 in Writing)
• PTE Academic score of 50 Overall (min 42 in communicative skills)
• Cambridge English score of 170