Genetics: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Genetics is a dynamic and rapidly evolving field dedicated to understanding the molecular basis of heredity, gene function, and the mechanisms that govern biological variation across generations. This interdisciplinary program equips students with advanced knowledge and analytical skills to explore the complexities of DNA, inheritance patterns, and genetic regulation in living organisms.
- Genome Structure and Function: Investigates the organization, composition, and role of genetic material within cells, including chromosomal architecture and gene expression control.
- Molecular Genetics: Focuses on the biochemical and molecular processes underlying DNA replication, transcription, translation, and gene regulation at the cellular level.
- Population Genetics: Examines genetic variation within and between populations, exploring evolutionary forces such as mutation, selection, and genetic drift.
- Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology: Covers techniques for manipulating genetic material, including CRISPR-Cas9, recombinant DNA technology, and applications in medicine, agriculture, and industry.
- Medical Genetics: Explores the genetic basis of human diseases, inheritance patterns, diagnostic methodologies, and emerging therapies such as gene editing and personalized medicine.
- Epigenetics: Studies heritable changes in gene activity that do not involve alterations to the DNA sequence, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA regulation.
- Computational and Bioinformatics Tools: Applies data science and algorithmic approaches to analyze large-scale genetic datasets, sequence alignment, and genomic prediction modeling.
Genetics Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Genetics Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Genetics degrees, including Natural Sciences Managers, Genetic Counselors and Biological Scientists, All Other. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 217,340 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences Managers 11-9121 | $161,180 | $79,830 - $239,200 | 100,870 | $77.49 |
| Genetic Counselors 29-9092 | $98,910 | $78,680 - $137,780 | 3,510 | $47.55 |
| Biological Scientists, All Other 19-1029 | $93,330 | $54,500 - $159,780 | 59,710 | $44.87 |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1042 | $83,460 | $50,760 - $169,560 | 53,250 | N/A |
Genetics Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $75,280 in Louisiana to $144,218 in California—a 92% difference. The highest-paying states include California, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 217,340 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Genetics by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 1 institutions offering Genetics programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Genetics is found at University of Washington (UW), Seattle Campus (11 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 11 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Washington (UW) |
Doctorate (Research)
|
11 | Seattle, Washington | Public | washington.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Genetics programs
How much can I earn with a Genetics degree?
Salaries for Genetics graduates vary by role and location. Natural Sciences Managers earn a median of $161,180 annually, while Genetic Counselors earn around $98,910. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in California average $144,218 compared to $75,280 in Louisiana. Approximately 217,340 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Genetics programs?
Currently 1 accredited institutions offer Genetics degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include University of Washington (UW), Seattle Campus (11 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Genetics growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 21 in 2010 to 11 in 2023-24. This represents a 48% decrease overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Genetics degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Natural Sciences Managers, Genetic Counselors, and Biological Scientists, All Other. Related occupations employ approximately 217,340 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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