Major Title: Molecular and Medical Genetics
Major Description:
This cutting-edge major bridges molecular biology with clinical genetics, preparing students to understand and manipulate the genetic basis of health and disease. The program integrates laboratory research skills with medical applications, covering gene structure/function, genomic technologies, and therapeutic interventions. Students gain hands-on experience with CRISPR, next-generation sequencing, and bioinformatics tools while exploring ethical implications of genetic medicine. Graduates are equipped for careers in genetic research, clinical diagnostics, and biotechnological innovation.
Learning Objectives:
- Master DNA/RNA structure and gene regulation mechanisms
- Perform molecular genetic techniques (PCR, gene editing, sequencing)
- Interpret genomic data and variant classifications
- Understand inheritance patterns of genetic disorders
- Apply bioinformatics tools for genetic analysis
- Evaluate gene therapy approaches and ethical considerations
- Conduct genetic risk assessment and counseling principles
- Design genetic research studies
- Navigate regulatory frameworks for genetic testing
Course Outline:
Molecular Foundations
- Genome Structure & Function
- Chromatin organization
- Epigenetic regulation
- Gene Editing Technologies
- CRISPR-Cas9 systems
- Therapeutic applications
- Omics Technologies
- Genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics
- Multi-omics integration
Medical Applications
- Medical Genomics
- Variant interpretation (ACMG guidelines)
- Pharmacogenomics
- Cancer Genetics
- Driver mutations
- Precision oncology
- Genetic Counseling Basics
- Pedigree analysis
- Risk communication
Advanced Methodologies
- Bioinformatics
- Sequence alignment
- Pathway analysis
- Diagnostic Techniques
- NGS pipeline analysis
- CNV detection
- Gene Therapy
- Viral vector systems
- Clinical trial design
Practical Training:
- Cell culture and transfection labs
- Clinical variant interpretation workshops
- Research internship (minimum 400 hours)
- Genetic clinic shadowing
- Bioinformatics hackathons
Technology Integration:
- Illumina sequencing platforms
- Genome browsers (UCSC, ENSEMBL)
- Cloud-based analysis tools (DNAnexus, Galaxy)
- AI-assisted variant calling
Program Duration:
4-year Bachelor of Science (with optional 1-year Master's)
Certification Pathways:
- ASCP Molecular Biology certification
- ABMGG laboratory genetics (with graduate study)
- Genetic Counselor Assistant credential
Career Outcomes:
- Clinical Genetics Technologist
- Research Geneticist
- Biotech Product Specialist
- Genetic Data Analyst
- Medical Science Liaison
- Diagnostic Lab Supervisor
Unique Features:
- Dual focus on research and clinical applications
- Industry partnerships with genomic medicine centers
- Capstone project addressing real-world genetic challenges
- Preparation for MD/PhD or genetic counseling programs
This program produces versatile genetics professionals capable of advancing precision medicine through both laboratory innovation and clinical translation. Graduates will be at the forefront of the genomic revolution, equipped to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries and their therapeutic implementations.
