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Bachelor of Science Honours in Genetics

Honours degree
ID:
0172_100_N111

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Genetics prepares graduates for further postgraduate study or careers in biotechnology, agriculture, health sciences, and related industries, equipping them to contribute to advancements in food security, human health, and sustainable resource management.

Contact information
Prof C Rhode
Programme leader

Programme overview

Duration
One year
Campus
Stellenbosch
Type
Coursework

More information

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When applying

When applying for a postgraduate programme, some may require you to upload additional supporting documents beyond completing the standard application form online. Where such documents are required, more information will appear under the section below titled “Supporting Application Documents.”

Please note that selection for postgraduate programmes is highly competitive. Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the programme.

Minimum admission requirements

• A BSc degree with Genetics 214, 244 plus 314, 324, 344 and 354 or equivalent modules at other universities.
• An average mark of at least 65% in Genetics in the final year.

Programme structure

The programme consists of the six modules listed below. Subject to departmental approval, you may substitute two of the 8-credit theory modules with equivalent 8-credit modules from the BScHons in Plant Biotechnology. You must also complete a research assignment and present the results in the form of a research publication. The Department places strong emphasis on acquiring laboratory skills. As an honours student you are expected to attend departmental seminars and to act as an undergraduate demonstrator.

Compulsory Modules
10481: Genetics: Molecular Techniques 711(16): Genetics: Molecular Techniques
10478: Genetic Data Analysis 713(8): Genetic Data Analysis
11061: Biometrical Applications and Data Analysis in R
721(8): Biometrical Applications and Data Analysis in R
13594: Genomics 716(8): Genomics
13538: Scientific and Proposal Writing 721(8): Scientific and Proposal Writing
18007: Project 741(64): Honours Project in Genetics

Plus Elective Module
Choose one of the following modules.
13596: Human and Animal Genetics 712(8): Human and Animal Genetics
13537: Plant Genetics and Crop Improvement 722(8): Plant Genetics and Crop Improvement

Assessment and Examination
The programme is assessed by means of flexible assessment. To complete the honours programme successfully, you must complete the compulsory molecular techniques module, all prescribed theory modules and a research project successfully.

Last updated 01 April 2026
Disclaimer:
The University reserves the right to amend the information on this webpage at any time. While every effort is made to ensure that the information provided is accurate and complete, it may be subject to change or become outdated. It remains the responsibility of prospective students to verify all details against the relevant faculty yearbook or directly with the relevant department.

Application dates

South African students
Applications open:
1-Apr 2026
Applications close:
31-Oct 2026

International students
Applications open:
1-Apr 2026
Applications close:
31-Oct 2026