Genetics (B.S.)

FAST FACTS ›

  • Clemson has one of just 24 undergraduate degree programs in genetics in the United States.
  • Our department is home to the Clemson University Genomics Institute (CUGI).
  • More than 20 percent of our students are members of the Calhoun Honors College.
  • There are numerous summer research opportunities available through the National Science Foundation.
ABOUT.

Those beautiful eyes you inherited from your dad are actually a complex science. Geneticists study the molecular structure and function of genes and their behavior in order to understand how organisms inherit, and then pass on, characteristics to their offspring. You likely can already see how the concepts of heredity are important in medicine, but they are also very important to modern science and industry in areas such as biotechnology and agriculture. A genetics degree from Clemson is a strong preparation for many careers. As a genetics major, you’ll graduate with an excellent foundation for medical, veterinary or pharmacy school. You’ll also be prepared to conduct graduate research in any discipline related to biology, such as bioinformatics, forensic technology or genetic counseling.

CLASSES.

What you'll study:

The first major-specific course required of freshman genetics majors is Careers in Genetics and Biochemistry. This introductory course brings in professionals to aid students in discovering the diversity of career opportunities available from this degree. This course also helps to make students aware of professional organizations, ethical issues and requirements for advanced studies.

In the first two years, you’ll take various courses in the sciences such as general and organic chemistry, biology, physics and mathematics. These will prepare you for upper-level course work that includes molecular biochemistry, fundamental genetics and bioinformatics. Additionally, you’ll be able to customize your degree to your specific interests by selecting from approved scientific courses such as biomedical design, biomaterials, plant physiology, immunology, and human anatomy and physiology.

Curriculum:

Popular Minors:

  • Biochemistry
  • Biological Sciences
  • Chemistry
  • Microbiology
  • Modern Languages
  • Political Science
  • Psychology

Similar Majors:

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM.

Genetics students spend quite a bit of time in Clemson’s laboratories with our nationally recognized faculty. Our faculty have diverse research interests from alternative fuel to molecular parasitology. You'll also have a chance to participate in internships and study abroad, as well as join any of Clemson’s hundreds of student organizations.

Internships and Research Projects:

RESEARCH:
Through independent research, you’ll learn the latest cutting-edge methodologies in biochemical and genetic research while improving observation and communication skills and working alongside faculty mentors.
JOIN:
Clemson's Biochemistry/ Genetics Club hosts speakers, watches films and discusses current topics related to the fields of biochemistry and genetics. This club is a great way to meet and network with like-minded students, professors and researchers.
LABS:
Take a part-time position, volunteer or earn course credit through research opportunities available in faculty laboratories. Our faculty have diverse research interests such as molecular parasitology and hereditary diseases of canines.

Connect with Other Students:

CAREERS.

What are students doing at graduation?*

26%

Employed

53%

Grad School

15%

Seeking Employment

6%

Other

Where are students headed at graduation?*

Recent employers and job titles*

  • ArborGen — Lab Technician 
  • Medical University of South Carolina — Research Associate
  • Teach for America — Corps Member

Recent graduate schools and sought degree types*

  • University of South Carolina — Master’s
  • Duke University — Ph.D.
  • Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine — Ph.D.

Common Career Areas**

  • Research
    • Basic Research
    • Applied Research
    • Grant Writing
    • Administration
  • Teaching
    • Elementary
    • Secondary
    • Post-secondary
    • Non-classroom Settings
  • Health Care
    • Medicine
    • Dentistry
    • Optometry
    • Podiatry
    • Pharmacy
    • Chiropracty
    • Veterinary Medicine
    • Genetic Counseling
    • Occupational Therapy
    • Physical Therapy
    • Public Health
  • Other Professional Opportunities
    • Sales/Marketing
    • Technical Writing
    • Scientific Journalism
    • Scientific Illustration
    • Regulatory Affairs
    • Administration/Management
    • Scientific/Technical Recruiting
    • Intellectual Property/Patent Law
    • Bioinformatics
*Represents only Clemson University graduates who completed Michelin® Career Center surveys from 2009 to 2011.
**Used w/permission from Univ. of Tennessee.
FIND OUT MORE.

Have more questions or want more information? Fill out the form below, which goes directly to the following department contact as well as our admissions office.

Katie Black, Student Recruitment Coordinator
888-472-5433 — hulse@clemson.edu