Academics
Welcome, future scientists!
Genetics is more than just a field of study, it's the key to solving some of humanity's greatest challenges. From developing personalized medicine to creating sustainable food sources, genetics professionals are at the forefront of discoveries that will shape our world for generations to come.
Joining our program at Iowa State provides students with support and a sense of community, while offering the benefits and opportunities of a major research university. Through our active Learning Community, you'll be grouped with fellow Genetics majors in introductory courses, paired with upperclassmen mentors, and surrounded by peers who share your passion for understanding life at its most fundamental level.
Major in Genetics
Completion of the genetics degree meets the admissions requirements for most graduate and professional programs!
Whether you are interested in pursuing a career in a medical field (human medicine or pre-vet), genetic counseling, genetic engineering, or other genetics-related research fields, the Genetics Program at Iowa State will prepare you for the next step in your career.
Areas of Study
Healthcare
If you are interested in studying pre-med, a B.S. in Genetics provides excellent preparation with coursework that meets admission requirements, access to cutting-edge research opportunities, and guidance on essential extracurricular activities like patient contact and biomedical research.
Genetic Counseling
If you are passionate about helping people understand their genetic health risks and family history, a B.S. in Genetics is your perfect launchpad into the rapidly growing field of genetic counseling, offering coursework that meets medical program requirements plus hands-on research opportunities and internships that will make you stand out when applying to graduate school!
Biomedical Research
If you want to be part of the genetic revolution that's creating breakthrough cures and editing genes to fight disease, Iowa State's Genetics program will put you at the forefront of this exploding field with hands-on research opportunities, cutting-edge bioinformatics training, and direct access to labs where you'll help shape the future of medicine!
Plant Sciences Research
Excited about developing the next generation of sustainable crops or solving global food security challenges? Iowa State's Genetics program will prepare you for your career in plant research with hands-on lab experience and access to cutting-edge agricultural genetics that could help feed the world!
Minor in Genetics
A minor in Genetics may be earned by completing Gen 3130 and Gen 3130L (Biol 2110, Biol 2110L, Biol 2120, Biol 2120L are pre-requisites), Biol 3140, Gen 4090, Gen 4100, and a minimum of 2 additional credits in Genetics at the 3000-level or above. Please note you cannot take both GEN 3130 and GEN/AGRON 3200. Only one course is allowed.
At least 9 credits from this list of courses must count only towards the minor, and not be used for any other major, college, or university requirement.
To declare a minor, students meet with their adviser to complete the curriculum change form.
Experiences
At Iowa State, we offer a wide variety of opportunities to explore your passions, connect with others, and create lifelong memories. There’s no shortage of ways to get involved!