The course begins with the main principles of genetics in eukaryotes. Nuclear division at mitosis is considered in the context of the cell cycle, together with karyotypes and chromosome complements. Principles of independent segregation of different genes on different chromosomes, dominance and allelic interaction are taught using genetic crosses. The more complex behaviour of chromosomes during meiosis, especially the visible events leading to a reduction from the diploid to the haploid chromosome complement during gamete formation, is similarly used to explain the independent segregation of different allelic forms of the same gene on homologous chromosomes. Recombination resulting from the breakage and rejoining of DNA molecules is then introduced, and developed in terms of the behaviour and interaction of homologous chromosomes during meiosis. The concept of the chromosome as a linkage group is explored using linkage analysis in genetic crosses.

The structure of DNA is covered, and is followed by an overview of genes and proteins and the nature of the genetic code. Gene action is reviewed through transcription and translation. DNA replication and its relationship to the cell cycle and to chromosome structure and condensation during nuclear division are then dealt with. Change in the genetic material through mutation follows on from structure, including the molecular basis of gene mutation and its relation to alleles, and to phenotypes. Mutation frequency is considered, and there is also an introduction to chromosome mutation. The organisation of the genetic material into operons in prokaryotes follows, including some consideration of mobile genetic elements (plasmids, bacteriophages and transposons). Concepts of recombination and linkage in bacteria are introduced through consideration of genetic exchange mediated by transformation, transduction and conjugation.

Genes in populations is dealt with in eukaryotes, including the concept of gene frequencies, change in gene frequencies and micro-evolution. Concepts of sex-linked inheritance, quantitative genetics and modes of selection in eukaryotes are also developed. The module ends with an introduction to molecular genetics and recombinant DNA.

There are three practicals which complement the lectures. Aspects of the practical work are included in the theory examination paper.