MSc in Quantitative Genetics & Genome Analysis

We offer a suite of programmes to deliver the knowledge and skills required to apply quantitative genetics theory to:

• practical problems in both the biomedical and animal science industries
• to undertake research in a wide range of fields in evolutionary genetics, animal breeding, human genetics, and genome analysis

All our programmes offer the same core content, but you can tailor your degree to reflect your interests.

This programme is the most general of our offerings. It allows the most flexibility in tailoring your course of study to include subjects from our more specialised programmes that include:

• Animal Breeding and Genetics
• Evolutionary Genetics
• Human Complex Trait Genetics

Students in one Quantitative Genetics programme can change to another provided that prerequisite courses are passed in the second semester.

Why study Quantitative Genetics and Genome Analysis?

This degree could be for you if you are interested in any subject of study that uses quantitative genetic approaches, such as:

• food security
• health of companion animals
• conservation of animals in the wild
• evolutionary biology
• human health

We will provide you with the theory and knowledge of analytical tools so that you can tackle a wide range of problems.

This programme provides essential skills in:

• quantitative genetics
• population genetics
• data analysis
• statistical methods
• genome analysis

Why study here?

Our programme offers a small course experience taught by active members of the quantitative genetic research community. We are based in the Institute of Ecology and Evolution, part of the School of Biological Sciences, and for this programme, we bring together expertise from across the University and SRUC.

This programme emphasises the conceptual underpinnings of the field, with rigorous training in statistical genetics and exposure to other applications of quantitative genetics.

You will study alongside students with a broad spectrum of interests using quantitative genetic tools, including animal breeding and genetic, evolutionary genetics, and human genetics. Likewise, the staff involved in teaching will come from different disciplines.

The University has an international reputation as a leader in quantitative genetics. The first genetic department was set up at the University of Edinburgh in 1919. From 1949, the postgraduate Diploma in Genetics was offered to students, with a substantial component of quantitative genetics. The MSc in Animal Breeding started in 1975 through a collaboration with the Agriculture Department.

Edinburgh continues to be at the forefront of research in the genetics of animal breeding, evolution, and human health. Many past students hold positions within the animal breeding industry.

Programme structure

The MSc programme consists of two semesters of taught courses followed by a research project leading to a dissertation. You would usually complete this within one academic year, however, there is the option to apply for a part-time programme, taken over two years.

The Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) completes after the two taught semesters and does not include the research project.

Full-time MSc programme

The full-time programme takes one year to complete. You will start in September and end in August of the following year.

Two semesters of taught courses totalling 120 credits underpin a three-month research project for an additional 60 credits.

Part-time MSc programme

You may opt to take the Programme over two years.

In Year 1, you attend in Semester 1 only and take compulsory courses totalling 60 credits.

In Year 2, you attend in Semester 2 and Summer only. You will take compulsory and optional Semester 2 courses totalling 60 credits, then complete a research project for an additional 60 credits.

It is important to note that the part-time programme requires full-time attendance, but for only part of each academic year.

Full-time PgDip programme

This programme takes nine months to complete. It comprises the two semesters of taught courses for 120 credits.

Taught courses

Semester 1 provides core material on population genetics, quantitative genetics and statistics and data analysis, delivered through three compulsory courses.

Semester 2 provides further compulsory courses, and, in addition, you will select two 20 credit courses.

Dissertation

If you successfully complete the taught component of the MSc programme, you will progress to complete a research project and dissertation.

Projects are decided by the end of Semester 1. During Semester 2, you will develop the project to prepare a research proposal, which is carried out during the summer.

Potential projects are offered by research groups throughout the University or Scotland’s Rural Colleges (SRUC). You select your top choices and once all preferences are recorded, projects are allocated.

Alternatively, if you have a clear idea of a project you wish to undertake, you can source your own project. We have links with industry and can help organise research projects with industry involvement. The Programme Directors will offer support and ensure that the project will fulfil the requirements of the programme. All projects must have one supervisor based within the University of Edinburgh or SRUC.

How will I learn?

Our courses our taught through a range of styles, including:

• traditional lectures
• recorded material
• interactive sessions
• paper discussions
• computer practicals

Please note that this degree does not include any wet lab experience.

We also use a range of assessment styles, such as:

• in-course essays
• problems and data analysis
• formal exams

Many of our graduates go on to work in the animal breeding or medical/human health industry, whilst some choose to follow the MSc with further study to obtain a PhD before pursuing their academic or industry career.

You will find our graduates in leading roles in major breeding companies, universities, charities and organisations. Other graduates choose to further their career within academia.

Our programme provides a high level of statistical and computational experience and some of our graduates choose to look for employment outside these sectors using these skills.