The programmes and activities in the Department of Genetics are split into two broad divisions, namely Genetics and Forensics (with the latter including both Forensic Genetics and Forensic Science). We aim to present a well-structured curriculum that meets discipline-specific, institutional, and national goals in terms of content knowledge, graduate attributes, and responsiveness to regional and national needs. Genetics and Forensics are exciting, fast-growing multidisciplinary fields at the forefront of scientific research. Research activities in the department are focused on patterns and processes of diversity in organisms ranging from micro-organisms to plants, animals, and humans, in addition to work in the field of Forensic Science.
Undergraduate Studies
Bachelor of Science majoring in Biological Sciences, in the disciplines Behavioural Genetics or Genetics; and Bachelor of Science majoring in Forensic Science.
Requirements for Bachelor of Science majoring in Behavioural Genetics or Genetics
- Admission Point: 32 or higher
- Language of instruction: 50%
- Mathematics: 60%
- Life Sciences:60%
- Physical Sciences: 60%
Requirements for Bachelor of Science majoring in Forensic Science
- Admission Point: 34 or higher
- Cumulative AP of 17 and higher for Mathematics, Life Science and Physical Science
- Language of instruction on level 4 (50%)
- A selection process takes place before admission. Only 80 students will be admitted.
- Participation in the National Benchmark Test for Language (Academic Literacy and Quantitative Literacy) and Mathematics.
- National Benchmark Test results will be used for selection and admission purposes.
- No person with a criminal record will be allowed into this programme.
For more information consult the Faculty Rule Book 2025 and 2026 Undergraduate Prospectus
Applications
Closing date for applications: 30 September
Apply online
Postgraduate Studies
Research and postgraduate training in the Department of Genetics are conducted under seven broad themes, namely Behavioural Genetics, Conservation and Population Genetics, Human Genetics, Molecular Systematics, Plant Molecular Genetics and Genomics, Forensic Genetics and Forensic Science. Our expertise is acknowledged by stakeholders in various fields, and we have a range of local and international collaborators to strengthen our research activities.
Honours degree programmes
Bachelor of Science Honours, majoring in Behavioural Genetics; Genetics; Forensic Genetics or Forensic Science.
Requirements
Admission is subject to selection. A minimum of 60% in Genetics (or equivalent subject) at third year level (NQF 7).
For more information consult the Faculty Rule Book 2025
Applications
Closing date for applications: 30 September
Apply online
Master’s and Doctor of Philosophy degree programmes
Master of Science: Research Masters majoring in Behavioural Genetics; Genetics; Forensic Genetics; Forensic Science; Forensic Entomology or Forensic Chemistry.
Doctor of Philosophy, majoring in Behavioural Genetics; Genetics; Forensic Genetics; Forensic Science; Forensic Entomology or Forensic Chemistry.
Requirements
Admission into MSc and PhD programmes are subject to selection.
For more information consult the:
2026 Postgraduate Prospectus
2025 Faculty Rule Book
Applications:
Apply online