An undergraduate major in genetics is offered by the Department of Genetics within the Division of Life Sciences. Students in this major have the opportunity to participate in research and learn how discoveries in science are made. Courses cover a wide range of topics, from molecular genetics to genomics and bacterial physiology. Students will learn to design experiments, carry out research using the appropriate laboratory techniques and analyze and interpret data. They also learn to communicate their discoveries through a written article appropriate for publication in a peer-reviewed Genetics journal, and through talks or posters appropriate for scientific meetings. This course of study prepares students for careers in biological research, biotechnology, and the health professions.

Most graduating majors attend graduate or professional school (medicine, dentistry, optometry, osteopathic medicine, etc.) or obtain a technical position doing research in industry or in an academic institution. Many careers do not require a specific major but rather a wide range of demonstrated skills and accomplishments. Regardless of your career choices, increase your marketability to employers through internships, responsible work experience, good grades and involvement in college activities. Job opportunities are substantially enhanced for students with other marketable skills such as computers, mathematics or language. A bachelor's degree is sufficient for many technician jobs in the medical field, lab/research assistant positions, or testing jobs. An advanced degree is required for most other positions in the scientific and medical research fields.

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• See the Occupational Outlook Handbook for additional career information.