Major
Molecular biology is an area of biochemistry which seeks to understand and unravel complex molecular mechanisms and the behaviour of living organisms by focusing on their molecular structure and the interactions among the biomolecules which constitute all living organisms. Molecular genetics is concerned with the control and function of genes at a molecular level and how the genetic information is transferred from one generation to the next. Specific topic areas include the structure, information content and replication of genetic material; the organisation and expression of encoding genes and the structure of gene products (proteins); genetic and protein engineering; macromolecular structure and interactions; cell differentiation and organism development; the basis of inherited diseases; biotechnology and medical diagnostic molecular biology; genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics. For more information on the program structure and content, view the Science Undergraduate Handbook.
About this major
View a detailed study guide on the School of Molecular Bioscience website.
FIRST YEAR
To prepare for a major in molecular biology and genetics, you should take at least one unit in biology and at least one unit in molecular biology and genetics. You may take the advanced molecular biology and genetics unit subject to eligibility requirements.
SECOND YEAR
In your second year, you will take units that are prerequisites for your third year units. You will take two units in molecular biology and genetics, and least one unit in biochemistry. It is also highly recommended that you take units in biology, and chemistry or microbiology in conjunction with the defined units of study.
THIRD YEAR
To successfully complete the major, you will be required to take 24 credit points worth of defined senior molecular biology and genetics units.
EXAMPLE UNITS
Human Molecular Cell Biology - compulsory
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry - Genes - compulsory
Gene Technology and Genomics
Graduate opportunities
With a major in molecular biology and molecular genetics, you will be able to continue on to work in a variety of settings or pursue further studies. Molecular biologists and geneticists are highly sought after in a wide variety of national and international research laboratories, in hospitals and industry. They work in organisations which include medical and agricultural research institutes; biotechnology companies; hospitals; diagnostic laboratories; universities; schools; the pharmaceutical industry; the biotechnology industries and the food manufacturing industries.
Career pathways
Courses that offer this major
Units of study in this major
The course information on this website applies only to future students. Current students should refer to faculty handbooks for current or past course information.
To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.
