MJRH-ADGEN v.1 Molecular Genetics Major (BAdvSci)(Honours)

This major/stream is part of a larger course. Information is specific to the major/stream, please refer to the course for more information.

This honours level major provides a flexible and personalised approach to studying molecular genetics with students able to explore the field through opportunities for immersive research experiences, industry placement and team-based projects. The major culminates in a personalised capstone experience. Molecular genetics will increasingly contribute to solutions to global problems facing humanity including prevention and control of human, animal and plant diseases, biosecurity, reversal of environmental degradation and feeding the world's population. "DNA chips" can detect the expression of thousands of genes enabling rapid diagnosis of many diseases in a single test. Individuals will soon have access to their own DNA sequence and hence predict their propensity to develop cancer, Alzheimer's, diabetes, heart failure and many other human diseases. Likewise stem cells and tissue culture promise novel methods for organ replacement and injury repair, some of the biggest challenges for medical practitioners. Improving the world’s food supply is increasingly reliant on genetically modifying the production of plants and animals and trace amounts of DNA in the environment (eDNA) are being used to provide more complete estimates of biodiversity in terrestrial and marine environments. Our graduates can be employed in a wide range of challenging careers working alongside other scientists, environmental scientists, medical and health-care professionals, engineers, agricultural scientist, agribusiness professionals computer software developers, lawyers, business professionals and entrepreneurs.

Career Opportunities

Students graduating with an honours degree in science can pursue careers in research through postgraduate degrees (Master by Research, PhD) but are also highly competitive in industry. Graduates from the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) have the added advantage of being able to evidence the development of high level discipline, leadership and entrepreneurship skills through engagement with industry and research groups throughout their course.

Additional Courses Expenses

Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks and other essential study materials. Students may require a lab coat.

This major consists of core biochemistry, genetics and microbiology units, a set of core units focused on the development of research and leadership skills and attributes, and a final year capstone experience. There is an elective stream that enables the opportunity to study a minor in Arts, Commerce or Science.

Major/Stream Learning Outcomes

A graduate of this course can:

1. demonstrate an advanced knowledge of the nature of science, its methods and processes, an advanced capacity to apply molecular genetic and biochemical concepts in a range of theoretical and practical situations, and the ability to contribute new knowledge to the molecular biosciences through research

2. critically, logically and rationally analyse challenging and multi-faceted problems in molecular genetics, address them by applying practical and theoretical tools and critically evaluate findings within the current body of disciplinary knowledge

3. access and make judgements on the value of available knowledge using a variety of tools, and incorporate them into the planning, conduct and communication of their own findings

4. communicate effectively by demonstrating the capacity to listen and respond (using both written and spoken language) to clients, staff, professionals, management and industry and conform to discipline standards in presentations and publications

5. use established and emerging technologies in molecular biosciences and apply them to address complex research questions

6. engage in self-driven continuous discipline and professional education and training in molecular genetics

7. participate in the generation and application of science in addressing global problems while understanding international ethical and professional standards in molecular biosciences

8. work collaboratively and respectfully with scientists from a range of cultural backgrounds and understand the cultural issues that impact research in the molecular sciences or the broader profession

9. be able to work professionally and ethically as an independent molecular geneticist and collaboratively within teams either as a professional leader or collaborator using effective problem solving and decision making skills within the professional context of their area of study; comply with legislation relevant to the molecular biosciences

Duration and Availability

This course is four years full-time or equivalent part-time study. One intake is offered each year in February.

YEAR 1 SEMESTER 1

YEAR 1 SEMESTER 2

YEAR 2 FULL YEAR

YEAR 2 SEMESTER 1

YEAR 2 SEMESTER 2

YEAR 3 FULL YEAR

YEAR 3 SEMESTER 1

YEAR 3 SEMESTER 2

YEAR 4 FULL YEAR

YEAR 4 SEMESTER 1

YEAR 4 SEMESTER 2