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Genetics at Wisconsin

You have your mother's eyes and your father's nose...

How is it that humans or individuals of any other species tend to resemble their close relatives more than unrelated individuals? This question has always fascinated curious observers, but only after Mendel's discovery of the basic laws of inheritance have we been able to study the transmission of genes, the hereditary factors. Since Mendel's discovery, genetics has changed from a science in which geneticists studied the transmission of genes in a relatively few plants and animals to one which occupies a central position in the biological sciences.

Does Genetics Fit Your Interest?

Do you have a sharp mind and imagination? Do you have a special kind of curiosity that makes you eager to uncover hidden relationships? Are you looking for a career exploring the edges of today's scientific knowledge? If so, a major in Genetics may be just what you are looking for.

Putting Genetics to Work

The Laboratory of Genetics is the oldest and one of the finest genetics centers in the nation. It is highly regarded for its research contributions in the areas of plant genetics, population genetics, developmental genetics, molecular genetics, immunogenetics, neurogenetics, cytogenetics, viral genetics, bacterial genetics, mammalian genetics, behavioral genetics, and medical genetics.

The University of Wisconsin has inaugurated a major initiative in the area of Genomics. Genomics is a significant new field of genetics that contributes to and uses the knowledge of many biological, mathematical, and engineering disciplines. Genomics encompasses genome sequencing, functional genomics, comparative genomics, and bioinformatics.

Undergraduate Training

All undergraduates in the Genetics program are required to develop a strong academic foundation with many courses taken in chemistry, mathematics, physics, biology, general genetics, biochemistry and bacteriology. Students also must include advanced courses, such as cytogenetics, human genetics, microbial genetics, quantitative and population genetics, plant genetics, prokaryotic and eukaryotic molecular biology, medical biochemistry, molecular neurobiology, clinical genetics, crop improvement, immunology, biotechnology, evolution, animal breeding, and parasitology.

Other requirements include course work designed to develop strong written and oral communication, and course work in economics, ethnic studies, humanities, social science and international studies.

Experience Outside of Class

While classroom lectures and laboratories provide the foundation of your education, we offer abundant opportunities for practical, hands-on experience. For example, students can work in research labs. This interaction with nationally and internationally renowned researchers provides our students with experience in "cutting-edge" science.

The Undergraduate Genetics Association (UGA) is a student-run organization that arranges exposure to careers in Genetics, fosters academic excellence, and provides a social network.

Where You'll Be Learning

There are about 300 undergraduate students and 60 graduate students currently enrolled in the genetics program.

The Genetics offices and laboratories are located in the Genetics and Genetics-Biotechnology complex on Henry Mall. The Genetics Building, a relatively new structure undergoing complete renovation, houses well-designed laboratories provided with all the equipment necessary for state-of-the-art genetic research. In 1996 a new Genetics/Biotechnology Building was completed that approximately doubled the research space available to Genetics.

Career Opportunities

The biotechnology industry has exploded within the last decade, providing many diverse career opportunities for our graduates. A strong background in Genetics will prepare you for research technical support, technical writing, quality control, assay development, technical services, and sales or marketing.

Many of our graduates continue their education by pursuing an advanced degree. Our students are competitive for admission to medical schools, veterinary schools, and graduate schools throughout the country. There are two possible courses of study: graduate students may elect a Ph.D. course of study to prepare them for careers in research, academia, and industry. Others may elect an M.S. program for a career in Genetics Counseling.

Financial Assistance

Approximately $300,000 in scholarships are awarded each year to students in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. Criteria are based on curricular activities and scholastic achievement.

For More Information, Contact:

Useful Links:

Biology
Oncology
Pathology
Bacteriology
Statistics
Zoology
Hilldale Fellowships

 

Course List

Undergraduate Genetics Association