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Molecular Genetics BSc

UCAS code: C400

Overview

Programme disclaimer

Please note the course details apply to 2026 entry. Details for 2027 entry for our undergraduate courses will be published from September 2026.

The Molecular Genetics BSc at King’s is a multidisciplinary degree programme focusing on the advances in the field of biology that investigate how the structure and functions of genes and the genome regulate the processes and mechanisms of life. Geneticists study how DNA is replicated, repaired, and decoded to make protein and other molecules within cells and tissues, which in turn impact the physiology, behaviour, and wellbeing of living things.

The course covers the broad range of genetics from the molecular basis of genes and genomes to evolutionary and healthcare genetics. The understanding of how genes and genomes work provides insights into disease and avenues for developing new therapies within personalised medicine, As an expanding research area, Molecular Genetics contains many topics about our life, health and wellbeing and many issues of wide relevance for today’s society.

Studying a Biomedical Science degree with us means that you will be able to enjoy the flexibility to choose your degree after your first year with our Common Year One curriculum. All Biomedical Science disciplines are covered in the first year, making the decision for your future an informed one.

You will be able to choose from the following Biomedical science degrees; Anatomy, Developmental & Human Biology BSc, Biochemistry BSc, Biomedical Science BSc, Medical Physiology BSc, Molecular Genetics BSc, Neuroscience BSc, and Pharmacology BSc.

Key benefits

  • Taught at Europe's largest centre for medical and professional healthcare education with teaching by internationally renowned scientists and researchers
  • Close links with the Guy’s and St Thomas’s Hospitals NHS Trust Clinical Genetics service and Genomic Laboratory Hub
  • State-of-the-art research facilities such as the Biomedical Research Centre’s Genomics Core Facility
  • One of the UK's best graduate employment rates
  • Contemporary approach based on our history of pioneering discoveries – including our part in finding the structure of DNA
  • Flexible options to tailor your degree through overseas study, work placement or to switch to a four-year MSci
  • 90% student satisfaction (National Student Survey 2025)

Course essentials

The Molecular Genetics course is continually evolving in the light of advances in the field, and reflecting the rapid rate of conceptual and technological development. The course provides knowledge and training in understanding how genetic information influences the processes of life in healthy and diseased organisms. This degree focuses on the new genetic methods and technologies that advance our understanding of mechanisms of life. You will have the opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of genetics and the basis of human genetic disease as well as a wide variety of other disciplines including biochemistry, cell biology, molecular imaging, systems biology, bioinformatics, neuroscience and psychology. During the course, you will also train in modern laboratory techniques, experimental design, data analysis and presentation.

In the first year this course forms part of the suite of ‘Common Year One’ modules within the School of Bioscience Education together with other undergraduate programmes Anatomy, Developmental & Human Biology; Biochemistry; Biomedical Science; Medical Physiology; Molecular Genetics; Neuroscience; Pharmacology. Once you have successfully completed year one, you can choose to switch to another course within this suite.

In Year 2 you may also choose to study abroad at one of our partner institutions for either a semester or for a full year between your second and third years, or you can apply to undertake an extra-mural or work placement, usually at a leading biomedicine employer.

In Year 3 you may also choose to apply to transfer to the four-year MSci Molecular Genetics. You may be required to fulfil additional entry requirements for this option

Special features

Optional study abroad

On this programme, you will have the opportunity to apply to study abroad, supported by the Study Abroad Tutor in your department and King’s Global Mobility Office. Together with partner organisations around the world, you will be supported in navigating your international, educational journey, developing new skills and competences and learning to apply different perspectives to your chosen discipline.

Find out more about Study Abroad

Optional year in industry

On this programme, you’ll spend your third year in a full-time year in industry or year in professional practice placement. Our Global Placements team will support you throughout your programme with advice and activities to help you discover your options, focus your placement search and take action to achieve the right placement for you.

Find out more about placements

Key Information

Course type:

Single honours

Delivery mode:

In person

Study mode:

Full time

Required A-Levels:

AAA

Duration:

Three years, or four years with a year abroad or extra-mural year, or four years with transfer to MSci

Application status:

Open

Start date:

September 2026

Application deadline:

14 January 2026

Administrative bodies

Regulating body

King's is regulated by the Office for students

Base campuses

Please note that locations are determined by where each module is taught and may vary depending on the modules you study.

Guy’s Campus

Located near London Bridge, Guy’s Campus offers a dynamic yet focused environment, ideal for health and science students. Offering cutting-edge labs and a close-knit academic community, at the heart of one of London’s most vibrant and historic areas.

Waterloo Campus

Our Waterloo campus is home to the Florence Nightingale Faculty Nursing & Midwifery, and a vibrant hub for health, social science, and law students. Located moments from the iconic landmarks of South Bank and just a short walk to the Stand campus.

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