Major overview
Molecular genetics is an expanding area that is contributing to solutions for human, animal and plant diseases; environmental degradation; biodiversity monitoring; food security; biosecurity and other global challenges.
Genetics now underpins diverse jobs related to biology. For example, around the world, governments are investing in genetics research to improve food supply, which is increasingly reliant on genetically modifying the production of plants and animals.
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is another growth area, where trace amounts of DNA in the environment are contributing to better estimates of biodiversity in terrestrial and marine environments. And ancient DNA is being extracted from fossils to understand the evolution of life and the impacts of ancient climate and ecosystem change.
In the field of disease diagnosis, DNA ‘chips’ can detect the expression of thousands of genes, enabling rapid diagnosis of multiple diseases in a single test. Before long, individuals will be able to access their own DNA sequence and learn their propensity to develop particular diseases.
In this course, you’ll gain the deep knowledge of genetic processes and bioinformatics for careers related to human, animal and plant health; environmental health; and food security.
This is a Bachelor of Advanced Science honours course, designed for high-performing students to deepen their expertise in molecular genetics with research, leadership and entrepreneurship skills.
How to study this major
A major is a set of eight or more units you complete as part of a degree, including at least two in your final year. To study this major, you’ll need to apply for one of the degrees listed below.
Career outcomes
Careers
- Plant and animal geneticist
- Agricultural and food scientist
- Bioinformatician
- Biotechnologist
- Ecologist
Industries
- Agriculture and agribusiness
- Environment and sustainability
- Food security
- Medical and healthcare
- Research and development
Why study at Curtin?
World-ranked global university
Curtin ranks in the top 1% of universities worldwide, based on our ARWU ranking. (Academic Ranking of World Universities, 2025)
Industry research engagement
Curtin hosts the Centre for Crop and Disease Management in partnership with the national Grains Research and Development Corporation.
Advanced science expertise
This is an Advanced Science honours course that includes aspects of research, leadership and entrepreneurship.
Major structure
What you’ll learn
This course offers a flexible approach to study, with opportunities for interdisciplinary team-based projects and research experiences. In your second and third years, you can source for-credit internships and work placements.
In your final year, you’ll complete a capstone project in genetics, which can range from pure research through to translational (entrepreneurial) science.
You’ll also gain practical experience programming in R and Python and through exposure to data science professionals.
How this course will make you industry ready
Through embedded research and industry engagement, you may investigate multiple areas of specialisation and tailor your final-year experience to prepare you for the industry of your choice.
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information and course structure, visit our Handbook.
How to apply
This major is part of a degree. To apply, choose the degree you want to study and review its entry requirements. Then, prepare any required documents and submit your application before the deadline for your chosen intake.
After you receive and accept your offer, you can enrol in this major either at the start of your degree or later in your studies, depending on your course structure.
Choose your degree
To study this major, you'll need to apply one of the degrees listed below.Explore more
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