Molecular Genetics and Microbiology
Molecular Genetics and Microbiology examines the molecular basis of genetics, the study of heredity, and of microbiology, which is the study of bacteria and viruses. Developments in genetics and microbiology have contributed greatly to our understanding of the fundamental processes of life as well as to the treatment of genetic and infectious diseases. Students can focus on either genetics or microbiology while studying the basic science of both disciplines.
Admission Information
- Apply to the Life Sciences admission category on the St. George campus
- Six Grade 12 U or M courses, including English and Calculus and Vectors are required
- Senior high school credits in Biology and Chemistry are required for first-year courses
- Senior high school Physics is recommended preparation
- Students outside of Ontario should have the equivalent senior high school credits
Honours Bachelor of Science Program
- Molecular Genetics and Microbiology (specialist and major options)
First-Year Courses
The Department of Molecular Genetics does not offer any courses at the first-year level.
Advice for First Year
Students who are interested in studying molecular genetics and microbiology should take first-year biology: BIO 120H – Adaptation and Biodiversity and BIO 130H – Molecular and Cell Biology, first-year chemistry: CHM 138H1 – Introductory Organic Chemistry I and CHM 139H1 – Chemistry: Physical Principles (two half-courses) or CHM 151Y1 – Chemistry: The Molecular Science and first year calculus. The specialist program also requires first year physics: PHY 131H1 and PHY 132H1 – Introduction to Physics (two half-courses).
Careers
Career opportunities for graduates include employment in research institutes, universities and other educational institutions, and industry. The program provides an excellent preparation for post-graduate research and professional programs such as medicine, law, business, and education. Graduates may find employment in research, industry, or hospital laboratories.
Students often continue their studies at the graduate level (MSc or PhD), a requirement for research and teaching at universities and colleges.
Direct career options include:
| Bioinformaticist | Medical lab technologist |
| Biological technician | Microbiologist |
| Cardiovascular technologist | Physician assistant |
| Forensic specialist | Research assistant |
| Geneticist assistant | Science technical writer |
| Health administrator | Scientist |
