Diagnostic Genetic Sciences

The Diagnostic Genetic Sciences (DGS) certificate program is a two-year educational and clinical post-baccalaureate training program in genetic and genomic testing. It is open to individuals with a bachelor’s degree in the biological, laboratory or natural sciences, and who meet the specific course prerequisites and academic standards. Genetic and genomic testing information is used for screening, diagnosing, prognosticating and monitoring many human diseases. Diagnostic genetic scientists are credentialed professionals critical to the research, application and translation of genetics and genomics to personalized or precision medicine. Students in the DGS professional certificate program complete requirements for diagnostic molecular sciences which is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) (5600 N. River Rd, Suite 70, Rosemont IL 60018-5119; 773-714-8880). The DGS curriculum includes on-campus didactic and laboratory coursework and an off-site clinical and research internship at an affiliated laboratory. Graduates are eligible to sit for the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification examination in molecular biology (MB) immediately upon graduation.

Required courses: AH 2001, 3021, 3121, 4241; DGS 3100, 4234, 4235, 4236; MLSC 4500; four related cognates 2000 level or above as approved by their DGS advisor; totaling 33 credits.

Required Practicum Courses: DGS 4402, 4503, 46044850; and one of the following DGS 4510, 4512, 4513, 4515.

Clinical Experiences. All students are required to complete a four-month clinical affiliation as a part of the required curriculum. Students are placed in sites for which a valid agreement with the University exists at the time of the placement decision. Travel for internship interviews is required and relocation may be necessary for the final semester.

This certificate is offered by the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources.