Molecular Genetic Technology
Molecular genetic technologists study the role of genetics in medicine, Mendelian genetics, multifactorial inheritance, DNA structure, chromosome structure, population genetics, mutation rates, ethnicity of disease and genetic mapping.
Degree Offered
Bachelor of Science Degree in Molecular Genetic Technology
The program is administered by:
Dean: Shirley Richmond, Ed.D.
Program Director: Peter Hu, Ph.D., MLS(ASCP)CMCGCM,MBCM
Education Coordinator: Awdhesh Kalia, Ph.D.
Instructor: Denise Juroske, M.S., MP(ASCP)CM
Senior Health Professions Educator: Crystal Simien, MP(ASCP)CM
Senior Health Professions Educator: Raquel Giffard MP(ASCP)CM
Medical Advisor: Raja Luthra, Ph.D.
Faculty Roster
| Faculty | Degree and School | Teaching Assignments |
| Peter Hu MLS(ASCP)CMCGCM,MBCM Associate Professor | Ph.D., TUI University |
|
| Awdhesh Kalia Assistant Professor | PhD., All India Institute of Medical Sciences |
|
| Denise Juroske, MB(ASCP)CM Instructor | MS, Oklahoma State University |
|
| Brandy Greenhill MLS(ASCP)cm, Assistant Professor | Dr.PH, The University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston |
|
Jun Gu
| Ph.D., TUI University |
|
| Vicki L. Hopwood CLSp (CG) CLSp (MB) CLDir (NCA) Assistant Professor | M.S., The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences |
|
| Adjunct Faculty | ||
| Diana Anderson Lecturer | M. A., University of Phoenix |
|
| Mary Ann Ball Lecturer | M. S., University of Texas at Tyler |
|
| Monica Basehore FACMG Assistant Director | Ph.D., Wake Forest University |
|
| Mary Coolbaugh-Murphy Research Fellow | Ph. D., The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences |
|
| Jianli Dong Associate Professor | M.D., Ph.D., University of Toronto |
|
| Terrance Dunn Professor | Ph.D., The Queen’s University of Belfast |
|
| Laura Gahn Director, DNA Forensic Lab Orchid Cellmark | Ph.D., Louisiana State University Medical Center |
|
| Xiang-Yang Han Associate Professor | M.D., Shanghai Medical University Ph.D., Ohio State University |
|
| Madhuri Hegde FACMG Associate Professor Co-Director | Ph.D., University of Auckland |
|
| Dan Jones Professor | M.D., Ph.D., Case Western Reserve University |
|
| Delores Lopez-Terrada Associate Professor | M.D., Ph.D., University of Valencia, Department of Pathology |
|
Raiyalakshmi Luthra
| Ph.D., University of Arizona |
|
| Sri Rajagopalan MP (ASCP) Assistant Director | Ph.D., Cancer Research Institute Bombay University |
|
| Charles E. Stager Associate Professor | Ph.D., The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Galveston |
|
| Erika Thompson DNA Core Lab Manager | M.S., Florida International University |
|
| Yue Wang FACMG Director | Ph. D., Mount Sinai School of Medicine |
|
The Program in Molecular Genetic Technology
Mission
The MD Anderson Cancer Center Program in Molecular Genetic Technology, in concert with the mission and vision of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, is committed to the education of technically and academically competent graduates prepared to meet the immediate and future needs of the Molecular Genetic Technology profession.
Objectives
The Molecular Genetic Technology program is designed to prepare students to become entry-level clinical molecular genetic technologists. The program provides instruction in major areas of the field such as:
- Pre- and Post-natal genetic disorder testing
- Cancer molecular genetic testing
- Infectious disease testing
- DNA forensic science testing
The curriculum provides didactic training followed by directed clinical training at affiliated hospitals and laboratories. Students may enter the program to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree and program faculty help each student develop a focal point related to the learner’s area of interest. In the course of their training, students learn how to detect DNA polymorphisms and interpret DNA evidence. They also develop an understanding of the essential elements of statistics and population genetics.
While students study molecular diagnostic procedure such as recombinant DNA technology and its application to the clinical laboratory, their laboratory experiences may include but are not limited to:
- Southern blot analysis
- Probe preparation and utilization
- PCR, primer design and real-time PCR
- Sequencing and fragment analysis
- Microarray technology
- Next generation sequencing
Students also focus on the specific applications of molecular techniques within such disciplines as:
- Oncology
- Paternity
- Genetic disease of inheritance
- Forensics
- Infectious disease
- Bacteriology
Professionals in the field have a wide range of career options. As the Human Genome Project leads to the discovery of an increasing number of genes important in human disease processes, molecular genetic technologists will play an ever-increasing role in diagnostic patient care.
Employment opportunities include:
- Cancer centers
- Pediatric clinics
- Chemical industries
- Biotechnology companies
- Research, molecular cytogenetic and pathology laboratories
- Computer imaging sales and development
- Research and teaching institutions
Some molecular genetic technologists combine administrative and managerial talent with their technical background to become laboratory or hospital administrators.
Selection Process
Admission is dependent on factors that include:
- Cumulative GPA, Science and Math GPA
- Personal qualities such as maturity and professional goals as expressed in the interview and described in reference letters.
- Ability to meet the SHP non-academic technical standards.
- Race, religion, national origin, veteran status, gender, or disability are not factors considered in the selection process
Applicants should begin the application process three to six months prior to the application deadline to ensure all documents are received and processed by the UTHSC-Houston Registrar’s office. See SHP Academic Calendar for application dates.
Nonacademic Requirements
For a description of the non-academic technical standards requirements for admission, visit the admission section of the Student Catalog's Policies and Procedures
Program Admission Requirements
The Bachelor of Science degree is either a one-year or two-year program with entry at either the junior or senior level. Application and supporting documents must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar. http://registrar.uth.tmc.edu/Admissions/admiss_info.htm Qualified students are accepted on a rolling basis.
Applicants to the Program in Molecular Genetic Technology must satisfy the following requirements for admission:
All prerequisite course work must be from a regionally accredited college or university.
The applicant must have satisfactorily completed all prerequisite courses listed prior to graduating. These courses must be lecture and laboratory courses acceptable toward a degree by majors in those fields and cannot be survey courses.
A minimum grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale both overall and in science and mathematics courses is required to be considered for admission. Special circumstances may be considered, but at the discretion of the Admissions Committee.
Texas Success Initiative (TSI) - All applicants must provide proof of successful assessment of the Texas Success Initiative (TSI). Applicants who have graduated with an associate or baccalaureate degree from an accredited Texas College or University are exempt from TSI. Proof of an applicant's readiness to enroll in college level course work will be determined by the Registrar's Office based upon review of official transcripts from previously attended institutions.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - Applicants from countries where English is not the native language may be required to take the TOEFL. Internet based TOEFL is now available and a total test score ranging from 74-78 with a minimum score of 18 in each section is required.
Prerequisites
Prerequisites for the two-year program
A minimum of 60 semester credit hours (SCH) that includes:
- The Texas Core Curriculum – 42 SCH (see table below)
- An additional - 18 SCH
Within these 60 hours, the following must be included:
- 8 SCH in Biological Sciences
- 16 SCH hours in Chemistry to include Organic Chemistry and /or Biochemistry
Note: 12 of the above 24 SCH may be satisfied by the Natural Sciences Texas Core course selection
Prerequisites for the one-year program
A minimum of 90 semester credit hours (SCH) that includes:
- The Texas Core Curriculum – 42 SCH (see table below)
- An additional - 48 SCH
Within these 90 hours, the following must be included:
- 12 SCH of upper level division courses (3000, 4000)
- 8 SCH in Biological Sciences
- 16 SCH hours in Chemistry to include Organic Chemistry and /or Biochemistry
- 3 - 4 SCH of Microbiology
- 3 - 4 SCH of Genetics
that must include courses from the following specific areas as indicated | SCH |
COMMUNICATION (6 SCH) • ENGL 1301 English Composition I • ENGL 1302 English Composition II
| 6 |
MATHEMATICS (3 SCH) • MATH 1314 College Algebra or higher
| 3 |
NATURAL SCIENCES (12 SCH) Courses in biology, chemistry, physics, geology or other natural sciences
| 12 |
HUMANITIES (3 SCH) Courses in literature, philosophy, modern or classical language/literature, cultural studies or equivalent
| 3 |
VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS (3 SCH) Courses in arts, dance, music appreciation, music, drama or equivalent
| 3 |
HISTORY (6 SCH) • HIST 1301 United States History I • HIST 1302 United States History II
| 6 |
GOVERNMENT (6 SCH) • GOVT 2301 American Government I • GOVT 2302 American Government II
| 6 |
SOCIAL SCIENCES (3 SCH) Courses in anthropology, economics, criminal justice, geography, psychology, sociology, social work or equivalent
| 3 |
| Total Texas Core Curriculum SCH | 42 |
http://statecore.its.txstate.edu/
About the Texas Core Curriculum:
Each institution's Core Curriculum applies to all academic degrees. They range from 42 to 48 credit hours, depending on the college or university. Each Core Curriculum is divided into 8 or 9 categories that are common across the state. If you take the approved Core natural science courses at institution A, they are annotated on your transcript with a Core code by A and must be accepted as fulfilling that portion of the Core at institution B or any other Texas public institution. If Astronomy is a Core natural science at A and is not at B, it must still be accepted at B. This is a whole new way of doing things because the school where you take the course decides how it will transfer. And that decision is binding on any Texas school to which you transfer.
The School of Health Professions accepts and/or awards credit through the following examination programs:
- College level examination program of the College Board
- Comprehensive departmental examinations
- Regionally accredited military training programs
Recommendations from the School's academic departments are followed with regard to minimum score requirements, level of credit and amount of credit to be awarded. Program faculty is consulted to determine if credit recommendations equate to specific School of Health Professions (SHP) courses. The internal comprehensive departmental examination program provides a local means for establishing knowledge of SHS course content in areas not covered by the above examination program. Programs may elect to administer examinations that cover material specific to SHS courses with the results being reported to the Registrar.
Graduation
Each candidate for a baccalaureate degree must complete a minimum of 135 semester credit hours of course work. Within this requirement, students must complete the following at MD Anderson:
- At least 40 semester credit hours of advanced (3000/4000) course work
- At least 25% of the total semester credit hours required must be taken at MD Anderson
Graduation occurs in August. Upon graduation, students are eligible to take the national certification exam in molecular biology given by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
Please check with the program director for application deadlines and exam dates. Upon passing the exam, the student is considered a certified molecular genetic technologist. The awarding of the degree is not contingent upon a student passing the national certification exam.
Curriculum
This intensive two-year program is composed of a didactic phase followed by directed clinical training at affiliated hospitals and laboratories. During the didactic phase, formal lectures are presented on the principles of medical genetics, molecular and biochemical basis of genetic disease, hematology, clinical molecular genetics and molecular genetic technology. Laboratory sessions coordinated to lectures and covering the fundamentals of diagnostic laboratory procedures are included in the didactic phase.
Current Affiliations
During the clinical phase of instruction, training and supervision are provided in affiliated clinical laboratories:
- UT MD Anderson Cancer Center (Diagnostic Molecular Science Laboratory), Houston, TX
- UT MD Anderson Cancer Center (HLA Laboratory), Houston, TX
- UT MD Anderson Cancer Center (DNA Analysis Core Facility), Houston, TX
- Baylor College of Medicine (Diagnostic Sequencing Laboratory), Houston
- Baylor College of Medicine (Microarray Laboratory), Houston, TX
- Baylor College of Medicine (Mitochondria Laboratory), Houston, TX
- Baylor College of Medicine (John Walsh Cardiovascular Diagnostic Laboratory), Houston, TX
- Baylor College of Medicine (Whole Genome Sequencing Laboratory), Houston, TX
- Baylor College of Medicine (Cancer Genetics Laboratory), Houston, TX
- Center for Medical Genetics, Houston, TX
- De Novo Diagnostics, Houston, TX
- Ben Taub Hospital (Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory) Harris County Hospital District, Houston,TX
- Gene by Gene (FTDNA/DNATraits - Sequencing, NGS and Microarray Laboratory), Houston, TX
- Texas Children’s Hospital (Molecular Pathology Laboratory), Houston, TX
- The Methodist Hospital (Clinical Laboratory Medicine), Houston, TX
- Applied Diagnostic Laboratory, Houston, TX
- Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center, Houston, TX
- Clinical Pathology Laboratories, Inc. (Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory), Austin, TX
- UT Medical Branch in Galveston (Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory), Galveston, TX
- UTHSC San Antonio (Molecular Pathology Laboratory), San Antonio, TX
- Delta Pathology Group, LLC. (Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory), Shreveport, LA
- Massachusetts General Hospital – Harvard University Medical School (Department of Pathology), Boston, MA
- Duke University (Department of Pathology), Durham, NC
- Emory University (Department of Human Genetics), Atlanta, GA
- The University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK
- Greenwood Genetics Laboratory, Greenwood, SC
- The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine (Department of Genetics), Philadelphia, PA
- The University of Chicago (Department of Human Genetics), Chicago, IL
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
- Albert Einstein School of Medicine, Bronx, NY
- Quest Diagnostics (Molecular Oncology Laboratory), Chantilly, VA
- Illumina Incorporated (Whole Genome Sequencing Laboratory), San Diego, CA
- ARUP Laboratories (Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory), Salt Lake City, UT
- Signature Genomics (Microarray Facility), Spokane, WA
- Propath, Dallas, TX
- Orchid Cellmark, Dallas, TX
Accreditation
The Molecular Genetic Technology program is accredited and has conformed its curriculum to the standards published and monitored by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)
5600 N. River Rd., Suite 720
Rosemont, IL 60018-5119
Phone: 773-714-8880
Fax: 773-714-8886
Course listings
Junior Year
The Laboratory Sciences programs admits students at the Junior Year level who share a Junior Year curriculum consisting of:
• Laboratory sciences core courses
• Program-specific core courses
• Program-specific elective courses
| Molecular Genetic Technology (MGT): Junior Year Courses | |
| Laboratory Sciences: shared core courses | |
| HS 3102 Molecular Techniques Lab | 1 |
| HS 3210 Laboratory Mathematics | 2 |
| HS 4310 Medical Microbiology | 3 |
| HS 4100 Issues in Health Care Ethics | 1 |
| HS 4101 Diversity and Cultural Competence | 1 |
| TOTAL CORE COURSES SCH | 8 |
| MGT Program CORE | |
| HS 3203 Advanced Molecular Techniques | 2 |
| HS 3270 Critical Thinking in Health Professions | 2 |
| HS 3254 Immunohistochemistry | 2 |
| HS 3310 Introduction to Quality in Healthcare | 3 |
| HS 3320 Medical Genetics | 3 |
| HS 3330 Pathology of Body Fluids | 3 |
| HS 4300 Pathophysiology | 3 |
| HS 3300 Immunology | 3 |
| TOTAL MGT CORE COURSES SCH | 21 |
| MGT Program Electives: 1 hr required, choose from list below | 1 |
| HS 3110 Medical Terminology | 1 |
| HS 3333 Statistics | 3 |
| HS 3340 Research Methods | 3 |
| HS 3370 Fundamentals of Writing and Critical Thinking | 3 |
| HS 4111L Medical Microbiology Lab | 1 |
| HS 4160 Critical Scientific Analysis | 1 |
| HS 4161 Seminar in Healthcare | 1 |
| DI 4310 Teaching Strategies in Health Care Education | 3 |
| TOTAL MGT JUNIOR YEAR SCH | 30 |
Senior Year**
| Course | Hours |
| CC 4120 Introduction to G-band Karyotyping | 1 |
| GT 4300 Advanced Medical Genetics | 3 |
| GT 4330 Genetics of Hematological Disease | 3 |
| HS 4110 Intro to Clinical Molecular Genetics Technology | 1 |
| HS 4371 Management and Education | 3 |
| MG 4160 Genetic Technology Journal Club | 1 |
| MG 4200 Bioinformatics I | 2 |
| MG 4201 Bioinformatics II | 2 |
| MG 4280 Concepts in Molecular Diagnostics | 2 |
| MG 4290 Clinical Applications of Molecular Biology | 2 |
| MG 4320 Advanced Concepts in Molecular Genetics | 3 |
| MG 4390 Advanced Molecular Diagnostic Techniques | 3 |
| MG 4560 Molecular Diagnostics Clinical Rotation I | 5 |
| MG 4570 Molecular Diagnostics Clinical Rotation II | 5 |
| ELECTIVES 7 SCH Choose either Independent Research Projects I & II OR Molecular Diagnostic Techniques course for a total of 9 SCH |
9 |
| MG 4730 Independent Research Project I* (7 SCH) | |
| MG 4231 Independent Research Project II (WR)* (2 SCH) | |
| MG 4910 Molecular Diagnostic Techniques (9 SCH) | |
| Total | 45** |
**Students entering the School of Health Professions for the first time at the Senior level must take the following additional required courses that are described in the Junior Year for Laboratory Sciences section of the catalog:HS 4100 Issues in Health Care Ethics (1)**HS 4101 Diversity and Cultural Competence (1) **
Course listings
Junior Lab Sciences HS series classes with some exceptions
DI 4310 Teaching Strategies in Health Care Education (3 semester credit hours)
This course will teach the student how to analyze learning theories with emphasis on adult learners and the elements of quality education.
HS 3102 Molecular Techniques Laboratory (1 semester credit hour)
A study of the laboratory skills involved in transporting, preparing and reporting final results of specimens that include blood, bone marrow and solid tissue samples. The course will provide participants with hands-on laboratory experience in: performing molecular techniques such as DNA extraction, purification and quantification; preparing and viewing PCR products and DNA fingerprints via gel electrophoresis and bacterial transformation. (Admission to Program)
HS 3110 Medical Terminology (1 semester credit hour)
An introduction to medical terminology. Emphasis on word roots, prefixes, suffixes, spelling and analysis of unfamiliar terms. Additional background information on the anatomy that relates to various body systems will be discussed.
HS 3120 Introduction to Cytogenetics (1 semester credit hours)
A detailed study of human G-banded chromosomes. Includes instruction in banding pattern recognition and polymorphic variation. Includes classroom instruction and hands-on experience.
HS 3203 Advanced Molecular Techniques (2 semester credit hours)
This is a continuation of the previous introduction to molecular techniques laboratory course. Emphasis on performing additional molecular techniques such as, but not limited to various DNA extraction methods, amplification methods, electrophoresis, and fluorescent in-situ hybridization.
HS 3210 Laboratory Math (2 semester credit hours)
The basic principles and theory of clinical, biochemical, and analytical laboratory math related calculations. It includes basic operations such as problem solving using percentiles, rates, ratios, mole ratios, molality, pH, conversions, solving for proportions and more.
HS 3254 Immunohistochemistry (2 semester credit hours)
A comprehensive course that deals with the fundamentals of immunohistochemistry as applied to the theory and practical techniques in histopathology. The students acquire basic knowledge of how immunology is applied in the development of immunohistochemistry reagents and techniques. Emphasis will be placed on the clinical significance of diagnostic and prognostic indicators used in immunohistochemistry techniques. Troubleshooting and standardization of reagents are emphasized.
HS 3270 Critical Thinking in Health Professions (2 semester credit hours)
This course is designed to provide health professions students with resources for improving critical thinking skills. The course will introduce basic concepts of critical thinking through integration into interactive case studies, problem based scenarios, and project design assignments. The specific objectives of this course coincide with the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center School of Health Professions’ definition of critical thinking.
HS 3300 Immunology (3 semester credit hours)
This course focuses on the basic concepts in immunology, and covers general properties of immune responses; cells and tissues of immune system; lymphocyte activation and specificity; effector mechanisms; immunity to microbes; immunodeficiency and AIDS; autoimmune diseases; transplantation. Course delivery is a blend of lecture and on line, self-paced activities.
HS 3310 Introduction to Quality in Healthcare (3 semester credit hours)
This course will provide an overview of the history, development and application of quality concepts. The components of quality management, quality assurance and quality control will be addressed through discussions and assignments on the history of quality, the different approaches to quality, such as Six Sigma and ISO standards, and how to define, implement and ensure compliance to the quality assurance and quality control process.
HS 3320 Medical Genetics (3 semester credit hours)
This course is a study of the role of genetics in medicine including: Mendelian genetics, multifactorial inheritance, DNA structure, chromosome structure, population genetics, mutation rates, ethnicity of disease and genetic mapping. A comprehensive review of the cell cycle, mitosis, and meiosis and pedigree analysis is incorporated as well. (Admission to Program)
HS 3330 Pathology of Body Fluids (3 semester credit hours)
This course is a study of the anatomy and physiology of the kidney and the formation, elimination and composition of urine. Various body fluids (CSF, Synovial, Plural, Serous, etc.) will be study and associations made with various disease states. Interpretation of urinary and body fluids elements, chemical assays and the correlation with normal and abnormal physiology: Course delivery is a blend of lecture and on line, self-paced activities. (Admission to Program)
HS 3333 Statistics (3 semester credit hours)
This course provides an introduction to statistical techniques. Emphasis will be placed on probability and probability distributions, sampling and descriptive measures, inference and hypothesis testing, linear regression, and analysis of variance. (Prerequisite HS 3101)
HS 3340 Research Methods (3 semester credit hours)
This research methods course will introduce the basic language and concepts of empirical research with emphasis on the applicability of research methodology in the area of clinical laboratory sciences. Students will have the opportunity to learn how to search the peer-reviewed journal databases available to them through the Research Library. They will then critique and review their references, learn how to make an outline, and write a literature review on their assigned topic. Curriculum will include a blend of lectures, group work, presentations by guest researchers and development of a group research poster. (Admission to Program)
HS 3370 Fundamentals of Writing and Critical Thinking (3 semester credit hours)
This basic writing course stresses both reading and writing skills and is designed to teach students to improve their ability to write logically and develop short essays, brief formal summaries, and reports.
HS 4100 Issues in Health Care Ethics (1 semester credit hour)
This course content is designed to establish a foundation and set parameters of professional practice for health care professionals. The emphasis will be on developing the background for the resolution of ethical dilemmas through ethical reasoning, ethical obligations in health professional-patient relationships and just allocation of scarce health care resources.
HS 4101 Diversity and Cultural Competence (1 semester credit hour)
This course content is designed to create an awareness of ethnocentrism and a beginning understanding of cultural similarities and diversity. It provides the student with knowledge of the concepts of cultural relativity, cultural integration and variation in cultural values, organization and institutions.
HS 4111L Medical Microbiology Student Laboratory (1 semester credit hour)
The course utilizes biochemical, morphological, and serological techniques to illustrate concepts from the lecture course relating to microbial structure, metabolism, virulence, and transmission. Students also receive instruction on proper technique and procedures for a number of different tests, including culturing, staining, carbohydrate utilization, immunoassays, and microscopy.
HS 4160 Critical Scientific Analysis (1 semester credit hour)
Students will analyze current scientific publications for research questions, hypothesis, study design and statistical analysis and the application of proper scientific formats in the clinical laboratory professions. Students will complete pre-session assignments, participate in group discussion & present their group findings.
HS 4161 Seminar in Health Care (1 semester credit hour)
Seminar based course covering topics in the Clinical Laboratory Sciences
HS 4170 Special Topics I (1 semester credit hour)
A review of the principles of mathematics and statistics used in the clinical laboratories, this course presentation includes an introduction to the selection and operation of a laboratory information system.
HS 4300 Pathophysiology (3 semester credit hours) SENIOR YEAR
This course is designed to provide basic knowledge in pathophysiology in preparation for professional studies in the health sciences. Topic covered includes central concepts of pathophysiology of the cells and tissues and alterations on organs and systems with an emphasis on carcinogenesis. Appropriate diagnostic and treatment procedures are covered.
HS 4310 Medical Microbiology (3 semester credit hours) SENIOR YEAR
This course is the study of the utilization of morphological, biochemical, serological, disease inducing characteristics for microorganism, fungi, mycobacterium and virus identification. Course delivery a blend of lecture and on-line, self-paced activities.
HS 4371 Management and Education (3 semester credit hours)
T his course covers laboratory management and educational methodologies. It includes management and motivational theories, communication skills, regulatory and accreditation requirements, budget and strategic planning, curriculum design
Senior Year Course Descriptions (for Senior Year HS courses, please see above)
CC 4120 Introduction to G-band Karyotyping (1 semester credit hour)
A detailed study of human G-banded chromosomes. Includes instruction in banding pattern recognition, polymorphic variation, determination of band level and the International System for Human Cytogenetic Nomenclature (ISCN). Includes classroom instruction and hands-on experience.
GT 4300 Advanced Medical Genetics (3 semester credit hours)
A study of the role of genetics in medicine, Mendelian genetics, multifactorial inheritance, DNA structure, chromosome structure, population genetics, mutation rates, ethnicity of disease and genetic mapping. A comprehensive review of the cell cycle, mitosis, meiosis and pedigree analysis is incorporated as well.
GT 4330 Genetics of Hematological Disease (3 semester credit hours)
This course is a comprehensive study of the principles and procedures used in the cytogenetic analysis of peripheral blood and bone marrow in the study of malignant processes, especially hematological ones. The course emphasizes the chromosome abnormalities and the affected gene/s occurring in leukemias and lymphomas and their clinical significance.
HS 4110 Intro to Clinical Molecular Genetics Technology (1 semester credit hour)
The study of clinical laboratory molecular diagnostic procedures utilizing recombinant DNA technology and its application to the many aspects of the clinical laboratory.
MG 4160 Genetic Technology Journal Club (1 semester credit hour)
Seminar-based course that covers topics in genetics and related fields.
MG 4200 Bioinformatics I (2 semester credit hour)
This course will introduce the students to information technology and computer science to the field of molecular biology. Students will learn how to manage biological information using computer applications for purposes such as assay design, data analysis, data mining, and clinical research and development.
MG 4201 Bioinformatics II (2 semester credit hour).
This course continues from MG4201 Bioinformatics I and builds on the previous concepts of information technology and computer science to the field of molecular biology in managing biological information using computer applications for purposes such as assay design, data analysis, data mining, and clinical research and development.
MG 4231 Independent Research Project II (WR) (2 semester credit hours)
Continuation of an independent study that may be a case study analysis, laboratory test procedure evaluation or investigation of a laboratory problem. This is an intensive writing course requiring producing a written paper, a poster and an oral presentation.
MG 4280 Concepts in Molecular Diagnostics (2 semester credit hours)
An advanced study of the role of genetics in medicine, Mendelian genetics, multifactorial inheritance, DNA structure, chromosome structure, population genetics, mutation rates, ethnicity of disease and genetic mapping. A comprehensive review of the cell cycle, mitosis, meiosis and pedigree analysis is incorporated as well.
MG 4290 Clinical Applications of Molecular Biology (2 semester credit hours)
Focuses on the specific applications of molecular techniques within a variety of disciplines. The disciplines covered include cytogenetics, hemostasis, hematology, immunology, infectious diseases, forensic science, oncology, paternity and transplantation immunology. The course will provide hands-on, introductory laboratory experience with some of these techniques and participants will develop a focal problem of interest towards their research project.
MG 4320 Advanced Concepts in Molecular Genetics (3 semester credit hours)
This course will introduce the student to the newest methodologies and topics in genetics. Current topics may include, FISH probe making, DNA microarrays, Fluorescent in situ Hybridization and other relevant techniques.
MG 4390 Advanced Molecular Diagnostic Techniques (3 semester credit hours)
This lecture/laboratory course focuses on the specific applications of newer molecular techniques. Participants will have hands-on experience which may include Real Time PCR using various detection methods, microarray technology, sequencing, western blotting and Molecular Flow cytometry. This course also includes a review for the National Credentialing Agency certifying examination.
MG 4560 Molecular Diagnostic Clinical Rotation I (5 semester credit hours)
This clinical laboratory rotation includes the study of molecular diagnostic procedures utilizing recombinant DNA technology and its application to the many aspects of the clinical laboratory. Laboratory experiences include DNA specimen handling and processing, DNA extraction, DNA purification, Southern blot analysis, probe preparation and utilization, PCR, primer design and Real-Time PCR.
MG 4570 Molecular Diagnostic Clinical Rotation II (5 semester credit hours)
This clinical laboratory rotation is a continuation of MG 4560. This clinical laboratory rotation may include the study of molecular diagnostic procedures utilizing recombinant DNA technology and its application to the many aspects of the clinical laboratory. Laboratory experiences may include DNA specimen handling and processing, DNA extractions, DNA purification, Southern blot analysis, probe preparation and utilization, PCR, primer design and Real-Time PCR.
MG 4730 Independent Research Project I (7 semester credit hours)
An independent study that may be a case study analysis, laboratory test procedure evaluation or investigation of a laboratory problem. Includes a literature review and data collection.
MG 4910 Molecular Diagnostic Techniques (9 semester credit hours)
A comprehensive study of maintaining laboratory quality control in accordance with federal, state and local regulations, as well as College of American Pathologists on-site inspections and proficiency testing. Also, a study of the laboratory skills involved in transporting, preparing and reporting final results of specimens that include blood, bone marrow and solid tissue samples. The course will provide participants with hands-on laboratory experience in: performing molecular techniques such as DNA extraction, purification and quantification; preparing and viewing gel electrophoresis; and conducting PCR and Real-Time PCR experiments.