Honours Degree in Human Genetics

The honours degree is offered by the Division of Human Genetics. It is a one-year, full time degree and includes coursework (65%) through four theory modules; as well as a research project (35%), which together constitute the final mark (of 100%). Students will only be permitted to undertake the summative assessments of the course if they have “duly performed” the activities set out in this guide, also known as attaining a “DP requirement”.

The degree will provide foundational knowledge and skills development necessary for genomic research in the context of human genetic disease. Below is a brief outline of the course, each of the coursework modules, and further details on the research expectations.

Course Introduction

In recent years, there has been an extraordinary leap in knowledge of the human genome, mainly underpinned by an unprecedented advance in technology. Studying the genome has revealed its significant role in both health and disease.

Studying the human genome may allow us to provide more accurate diagnoses of diseases and accelerate the development of targeted treatment strategies. Arguably, even more important is that it offers opportunities to assess predisposition to disease, potentially prompting more focused clinical monitoring and lifestyle changes. To translate these advances to Africa, we must ensure that African-focused developments in the field do not lag behind. This curriculum will therefore offer cutting edge theoretical and practical training in human genetics, whilst providing opportunity for novel, an African-centric research agenda to be pursued.

We expect students, or the qualifying candidates who complete this degree to achieve the following outcomes:

  1. Problem-solving ability: to be competent to perform high order problem solving, and
  2. Advanced Technology: to be able to apply advanced techniques in the field.
  3. Advanced knowledge in the field and the application thereof: to be competent to apply advanced knowledge to solve and manage problems in the field of human genetics.
  4. Research competence: to demonstrate expertise in research and the ability to evaluate and implement research findings in the field.
  5. Attitudes and values: to appreciate ethical issues in the field, both in relation to the care of individuals and populations.
  6. Self-development: to demonstrate self-direction and independence in his or her learning, and to recognize personal education needs, utilise appropriate learning situations and evaluate her or his own progress.

Modules

  1. Genetic Medicine
  2. Introduction to Genomic Data Analysis
  3. Pharmacogenomics and Population Genetics
  4. Forensic Genetics

Note: Modules run for 3 weeks each

Potential Research Projects Themes

  • Pharmacogenomics
  • Retina
  • Colorectal Cancer Inherited Retinal Disease
  • Psychiatric disorders
  • Genetics of Kidney Disease
  • Cardiovascular disease

Admission Requirements

  • You will need an appropriate BSc, (majoring in: Genetics, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Physiology, amongst others) with a minimum average of 65%.
  • This does not guarantee acceptance; you will be ranked based on marks and merit (Capacity is limited to 10 students per year).

You are required to apply online by July, and will need the following documents:

  • Certified ID
  • Undergraduate transcript
  • CV

Programme outline

  • General Techniques Course: February
  • Stream specific Techniques Training: March
  • Module 1 – 4: March to June
  • Exams: July
  • Research Project Full Time: August to October
  • Project submission: November
  • Project Presentations: November
Programme convener: Dr Khuthala Mnika (k.mnika@uct.ac.za)