Genetics and Genomics Major

    Genetics and genomics is exploring life’s building blocks

    Genetics and genomics explores how genetic material shapes life — inside cells, within individual organisms, and across populations.

    As a Genetics and Genomics major you will:

    • Gain foundational knowledge of genetics, such as the transmission of genes and chromosomes between cells, how information encoded in DNA can be mutated and expressed, and genetic variation in populations
    • Explore specialized topics that span humans, plants, populations, cancer, biological development, neurology, and epigenetics
    • Become equipped to solve some of society’s most pressing challenges in the fields of medicine, biotechnology, biomedical research, and agriculture

    Career Paths

    The genetics and genomics major provides a solid foundation for careers in medicine, public health, research, life sciences, agriculture, biotechnology, education, environmental policy, and science communication — in the private, public, and non-profit sectors. 

    Here are just a few examples of what our genetics and genomics graduates are doing with their careers:

    What CALS alumni do:

    Genetic Counselor

    Medical Director

    Physician Assistant

    Health Unit Coordinator

    Anesthesiologist

    Where CALS alumni work:

    UW Health

    National Institute of Health

    SSM Health

    Medical College of Wisconsin

    Mayo Clinic

    What CALS alumni do:

    Scientist

    Research Specialist

    Clinical Research Coordinator

    Professor

    Analytical Chemist

    Lab Technician

    Where CALS alumni work:

    Thermo Fisher

    Covance

    Abbvie

    Exact Sciences

    Promega

    Invenra

    What CALS alumni do:

    Scientist

    Research Associate

    Analytical Chemist

    Research Gardener

    Where CALS alumni work:

    US Department of Agriculture

    What can CALS offer you?

    CALS students are curious to discover how our living world works and are passionate about using science to improve it.

    Our programs span five areas of study and encourage students to pursue their passions in the classroom and beyond. Learn more about how our students are set up for success:

    Want to learn more about genetics and genomics?
    Explore admission requirements, course offerings, 4-year plans, and more on UW–Madison’s undergraduate Guide.

    Your CALS Experience

    Ranked undergraduate genetics program according to College Factual

    Students who participate in hands-on research

    Awarded in annual scholarships

    Advisor & Contact Information

    Advisors can answer your questions, help you create a degree plan that meets your personal and professional goals, and connect you to resources across the UW–Madison campus.

    Incoming students should reach out to CALS Academic Affairs to direct your questions. Current UW–Madison students should schedule with their assigned advisor using Starfish.

    CALS Academic Affairs

    116 Agricultural Hall
    1450 Linden Dr., Madison, WI 53706

    academicaffairs@cals.wisc.edu
    (608) 262-3003

    Genetics Office

    1420 Genetics/Biotechnology Center
    425-G Henry Mall, Madison, WI 53706

    (608) 262-1069