Program description
Genetics is the science of heredity, which deals with the mechanisms of inheritance. The Genetics program is interdisciplinary, comprising courses from Biological Sciences, Microbiology, Chemistry, Arts, Medicine and Agricultural and Food Science. The study of Genetics is divided into three broad areas: Classical genetics, population genetics, and molecular genetics. Students will study advances in medicine, agricultural techniques, heritable IQ, genetically modified organisms, genetic counselling and gene therapy. The Honours and cooperative work-study (co-op) programs provide experience in government, private sector and research laboratories.
Program options
Degree options
B. Sc. Bachelor of Science, Honours in Genetics – 4 years
B. Sc. Bachelor of Science, Honours in Genetics (Co-op) – 5 years
B. Sc. Bachelor of Science, Major in Genetics – 4 years
B. Sc. Bachelor of Science, Major in Genetics (Co-op) – 5 years
Interesting courses and unique opportunities
Interesting courses
- Genes and Development
- Applied Molecular Biology
- Plagues and People
Research opportunities
Research opportunities in various departments during the summer or as part of Honours program
Co-op options
Cooperative-work study options for Major and Honours programs
Professional opportunities
- Medical research in gene therapy
- Genetic counselling
- Cancer research
- Public health,
- Agriculture
- Basic research
- Graduate studies
Admission requirements & prerequisites
Direct entry option
- Manitoba high school graduation, with five full credits at the Grade 12 level, in courses designated S, G or U.
- A minimum 85% average over the following, with no less than 60% in each course:
- English 40S
- Pre-Calculus Mathematics 40S (recommended) or Applied Mathematics 40S and
- One of: Biology 40S; Chemistry 40S; Computer Science 40S; or Physics 40S
This entry option is open to high school students or high school graduates who have not completed any university or college courses. Specific program requirements will vary; details of these requirements are available on each program’s application page.
Advanced entry option
24 credit hours in U1 (or an approved bachelors program)
This entry option is open to students who have completed a minimum of 24 credit hours of university level study. Specific program requirements will vary; details of these requirements are available on each program’s application page.
High school prerequisites
High school prerequisites: Depending on major, may include Biology 40S, Chemistry 40S, Physics 40S, Pre-Calculus Math or Applied Math 40S
Many programs will require or recommend specific high school courses over and above their admission requirements. These high school prerequisites are not always required to enter the program, but they must be completed to enrol in certain university courses within it. If a student does not have a particular prerequisite when they enter the program, they may complete an equivalent upgrading course at university that will satisfy the prerequisite requirement.
More details on admission requirements, application dates and the application process are available on the Faculty of Science apply for admission page.
What is unique about this program at the U of M?
This program offers an integrative approach combining many areas of life sciences including, biology, microbiology, chemistry, agriculture and medicine. It gives students the opportunity to work with excellent faculty members, all who have externally-funded research programs, including many in Science with national research chairs. Students will also experience hands-on research as well as gain strong links to other programs in Science and Medicine. This program is a good preparation for graduate programs with excellent undergraduate laboratories.
Important links
Faculty of Science
Programs in Science
Biological Sciences
Graduate Programs
