Molecular Biology and Genetics
Why Study Molecular Biology and Genetics at U of G?
DNA, the carrier of genetic information in nearly all living organisms, is at the core of the Molecular Biology and Genetics program.
In this lab-intensive major, you will study the genetics of animals, plants and microorganisms, as well as the structure and function of cells. Students can choose a general program or focus their courses in areas such as genetics, molecular biology, cell biology or developmental biology. Available electives cover topics as varied as epigenetics, molecular virology, cell function and signalling, and applied bioinformatics.
In molecular biology labs, you’ll learn the cutting-edge skills and techniques used in the biotechnology and medical sectors. Through a fourth-year research project, you can even manage your own research project in a lab, under the supervision of a Molecular and Cellular Biology faculty member.
Join an Innovative Field
Discover how significant advances in molecular and cellular biology can be applied to gene therapy, genetic testing, biopharmaceuticals and crop production, among other areas of study.
Gain Hands-on Experience
You’ll develop the practical lab-based skills and knowledge needed in the field of molecular biology and genetics, including the ability to analyze and interpret experimental results.
Participate in Research Projects
In your upper years, you’ll have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members in some of the University of Guelph’s state-of-the-art research labs and facilities.
To see all courses offered in the Molecular Biology and Genetics program, visit our Academic Calendar.
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- Top 5 Comprehensive University
- in Canada (Macleans 2024)
- Top 150 in the World
- for Life Sciences (Times Higher Education 2024)
- Top 20% in the World
- for Biological Sciences (QS Top Universities 2024)
- Top 13 in Canada
- for Molecular Biology (EduRank 2024)
Gain Valuable Experience Through Co-op
The Molecular Biology and Genetics co-op is a five-year program that includes four paid work terms. Apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to the real world, with hands-on work experiences available in private, non-profit, and governmental organizations. Benefits of co-op include:
- Relevant work experience
- Up to 16 months of work experience
- Earning while learning
- Career exploration
- Professional networking
Students can apply for the co-op program directly from high school or later for in-course admission. Learn more about the Molecular Biology and Genetics co-op program.
- Bioinformatics Specialist
- Food Technologist
- Junior Medical Writer
- Laboratory Assistant
- Medical Research Laboratory Assistant
- Pharmacy Assistant
- Product Development Technician
- Quality Assurance Assistant
- Quality Control Lab Assistant
- Regulatory and Scientific Affairs Intern
- Research Assistant
- Technical Marketing Analyst
Careers in Molecular Biology and Genetics
The program qualifies students for postgraduate training in cell or molecular biology and genetics, including clinical genetics and genetic counselling, and provides an excellent background for careers in biotechnology, toxicology, agriculture and medical research.
Here are a few careers our graduates have successfully pursued:
- Clinical Research Scientist
- Cytogeneticist
- Data Scientist
- Genetic Counsellor
- Laboratory Technologist
- Physician
- Policy Analyst
- Professor
- Research Data Manager
- Research Laboratory Technician
- Science Communicator
Hear from a Molecular Biology and Genetics student and graduates
Your first year within the College of Biological Science focuses on the core science courses, which allowed me to transfer into Molecular Biology and Genetics co-op in my second year. At Guelph, there are many options for experiential learning. I completed one of my eight-month co-op terms at a biotechnology company called STEMCELL in Vancouver, B.C. I loved having the opportunity to utilize my academic knowledge in a practical, hands-on way. In my final year, I completed the optional Research Project course (MCB*4500/4510), which allowed me to gain exposure to research and academia while working under Dr. Marc Coppolino, one of the many amazing professors at the university. I am excited about the next steps as I apply for a Master's in Genetic Counselling after graduation.
Molecular Biology and Genetics is unparalleled in providing a well-rounded and comprehensive education. This includes undergraduate research opportunities studying under leading scientists, which uniquely prepares students for graduate studies or the workforce. There are a wide variety of course offerings that provide an abundance of educational support, laboratory training, and assignments that encourage the critical thinking necessary for a successful scientific career. I also appreciate that Molecular Biology and Genetics is a smaller program that has an amazing culture of supportive collaboration between students. I switched into Molecular Biology and Genetics as soon as I took one of the core courses in the department but, if I had to choose again, I would pick the program from the start.
Discover More Options
Students considering Molecular Biology and Genetics may also be interested in Biological Science, Biological Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or other majors.
Admission Requirements
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Scholarships & Bursaries
We offer a wide range of financial aid programs to assist with funding your education at the University of Guelph.
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Get Future Ready
B.Sc. Academic Counselling Centre
Location:
Room 1329, Summerlee Science Complex
Office open:
Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to Noon, 1:15 to 4:00 PM
(please note that we are closed over lunch)
Our office will not reopen after lunch until 2:00 PM each Monday.
Contact:
519 824 4120 Ext. 53788
CBS and CEPS Dean's Office, SSC 1329
50 Stone Road East
University of Guelph
Guelph, Ontario
N1G 2W1