Master’s Degree in Genomics and Genetics

Presentation

The Master in Genomics and Genetics contribute to the knowledge for the development of new biotechnological products, new drugs, the improvement of human and animal health, the conservation and management of plants and animals, the control of parasites and microorganisms, as well as the understanding of the past and present evolutionary processes involving all living organisms.

Genomics is a relatively modern discipline that has developed from the achievements of recombinant DNA technology and new sequencing methods and bioinformatics approaches. Thanks to these methodologies, it is possible to perform genome-wide analyses that allow a comprehensive understanding of the organism and the processes of inheritance, especially in complex traits.

Genetics and Genomics provide the knowledge necessary for the development of new biotechnological products, new drugs, the improvement of human and animal health, the conservation and management of plants and animals, the control of parasites and microorganisms, as well as the understanding of evolutionary phenomena of both past and present in all living organisms.

Main Objective

The teaching staff involved in delivering the master’s programme are part of leading research groups in Genomics and Genetics, both at universities and research centers, with great national and international prestige. In this way, students gain first-hand experience with the most current and innovative techniques and methodologies in these fields.

Therefore, the Master’s Degree in Genomics and Genetics aims to meet the demand for well-prepared professionals in the genomic and genetic sector, which is of increasing importance in our society.

Competencies

Core Competences (CB)

These are general skills that students are expected to acquire, often within research contexts:

• CB1: Understand knowledge that provides a basis for originality in developing and/or applying ideas.
• CB2: Apply acquired knowledge and problem-solving skills in new or unfamiliar contexts within broader or multidisciplinary settings.
• CB3: Integrate knowledge and handle complexity when formulating judgments based on incomplete or limited information, considering social and ethical responsibilities.
• CB4: Communicate conclusions and the reasoning that supports them clearly to both specialized and non-specialized audiences.
• CB5: Develop learning skills that allow largely autonomous or self-directed continued study.

General Competences (CG)

These competences focus on applying knowledge in practice:

• CG1: Analyze current and future situations in the field of genomics and genetics.
• CG2: Use correct scientific terminology in genomics and genetics.
• CG3: Employ diverse information sources and databases to generate domain-specific knowledge.
• CG4: Draft professional reports and scientific publications.
• CG5: Contribute to the development of knowledge in genomics and genetics.

Transversal Competences (CT)

These are cross-disciplinary skills:

• CT1: Ability to analyze and synthesize information.
• CT2: Capacity for critical reasoning and decision-making.
• CT3: Work effectively in teams and collaboratively solve complex problems.
• CT4: Ability to find, interpret, and use diverse and updated information in different languages.
• CT5: Commit to accuracy and reliability of information.
• CT6: Apply integrated knowledge to solve problems.

Specific Competences (CE)

These relate to technical and professional knowledge in genetics and genomics:

• CE1: Understand principles of genomics and genetic analysis, including sequencing and bioinformatics.
• CE2: Apply knowledge to develop biotechnological products and research projects.
• CE3: Use statistical and computational tools for analysis of genetic data.
• CE4: Design and implement experimental approaches in molecular and cellular genetics.
• CE5: Apply knowledge in areas such as human genetics, genetic diversity, and genetic applications.
• CE6: Interpret results and draw conclusions for research or applied projects.
• CE7: Understand ethical, legal, and social aspects of genomics and genetics research.

Structure and Distribution of Credits

Details:

• The Basic Module consists of compulsory core subjects (typically 7 courses of 3 ECTS each).
• The Elective Courses allow students to choose subjects either within a specialisation track (e.g., Genetic Diversity, Genetic Applications, Human Genetics) or more broadly from all offered electives.
• External Internships provide practical training in research or professional environments.
• The Master’s Final Project is an individual research or applied project that integrates learning from the programme.

Courses

• By term
• By year