IGPGE is a M.Sc. and Ph.D. degree-granting educational program on genetic engineering and is a multidisciplinary program run by the staffs from colleges of Natural Sciences, Medicine, Pharmacy and Agricultural Sciences. IGPGE emphasizes not only basic questions about how living systems work but also the practical applications to the real world of the knowledge and materials obtained from investigations. The research and educational philosophy of IGPGE is based on the belief that the distinction between basic and applied science is becoming virtually non-existent, especially in molecular biology, and also that the 21st century will be the era of bioscience and biotechnology.

Unlike other conventional graduate programs in Korea in which students suffer from an undeservedly large number of course requirements, the core course for the entire graduate work leading to a Ph.D. in IGPGE is designed to be completed in two semesters. Other optional courses may be taken in consultation with advisors. After the course work, the major emphasis will be given to research.

Graduates of this program have been actively participating in research activities in the academy, industry, government -sponsored research institutes, and related fields.