Offered by: Human Genetics and Genomics Department
Program Director: Dan Handley, PhD
The Graduate Certificate in Human Genetics and Genomics is a 12-credit, online graduate certificate program intended for busy professionals in clinical practice or the life sciences who prefer a broad overview of the fields of genetics and genomics. This online certificate includes a strong emphasis on genetic involvement in disease as well as advanced genomic diagnostic technologies and therapeutics. Students will gain familiarity with DNA testing for paternity, ancestry, and forensic purposes. Upon successful completion, students will be able to critically analyze, translate, and apply genomics in education, research, and practice. Students will understand epigenetics as well as be exposed to the ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of applied genomics.
The program consists of four 7 ½-week courses and can be completed in as little as 30 weeks. The program is delivered asynchronously online.
- Classical Genetics Knowledge: Graduates will state key concepts in human development, Mendelian inheritance, population genetics, molecular cell biology, genetics, genomics, and the relationship between genotype and phenotype in both health and disease.
- Fundamental Technology Knowledge: Graduates will explain the theory and practice of basic and advanced molecular genomic technologies.
- Modern Genomics Knowledge: Graduates will demonstrate a thorough understanding of genome structure, function, annotation, sequence analysis, and clinical manifestations of genetic aberrations.
- Information Literacy: Graduates will apply technology for information gathering and be able to assess scientific literature and genetic test results.
- Analytical and Critical Thinking Skills: Graduates will engage in critical thinking, reflection, and problem solving in relation to current issues in genomics.
- Communication Effectiveness: Graduates will professionally construct and express their ideas, thoughts, and concepts through written and verbal communication.
- Bioethics: Graduates will demonstrate the ability to critically analyze and apply ethical considerations to complex issues and dilemmas in genomics research and clinical practice.
Applicants for the Graduate Certificate in Human Genetics and Genomics must submit the following documents to be considered for admission:
- Completed application
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- A completed bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. While applicants typically have degrees in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, physics, or other related fields, applicants with degrees in other fields of study will be considered.
- Undergraduate GPA of 2.7 on a 4.0 scale.
The Graduate Certificate in Human Genetics and Genomics may be conferred upon those who have fulfilled the following requirements:
- Earned 12 credits in required courses
- Minimum GPA of 2.0
- Completed all certificate requirements within 4 years of matriculation
- Submitted a Petition to Graduate
Please note: Students interested in pursuing professional or academic goals related to human genetics or genomics may need a higher GPA than 2.0 to meet those goals.
The Graduate Certificate Program in Human Genetics and Genomics does not accept transfer credit.
Students who have previously earned the Graduate Certificate in Human Genetics and Genomics with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 are eligible for Advanced Standing in the Master of Human Genetics and Genomics (MSHGG) program. All courses taken while enrolled in the Graduate Certificate will apply toward the MSHGG.
Courses identified as *IPE are either taken with students from other programs, cover topics relevant to integrative healthcare, or are clinical courses offered in integrative healthcare settings.
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