Curriculum

Competencies

The goal of the master of science program is to prepare students for careers as contributing members of genetics and genomics research teams in academia or industry. Toward this end, students will gain proficiency in the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to begin a career as a scientist. These educational goals are organized into five MS program competencies. After successful completion of the master of science program, students will be able to...

  • Describe the basic genetic principles through which they affect proteins, chromosomes, cells, individuals and populations in states of health and disease
  • Describe mechanisms by which genes and the environment interact to affect the distribution of health and disease in human populations
  • Use conceptual and methodological knowledge to interpret research results
  • Describe the importance of ethical principles, diversity and inclusion in genetics research
  • Query biotechnology and bioinformatics resources to facilitate clinical decision-making and/or interpret research results

Coursework

Coursework for MS students is typically undertaken during the first year in the program, although advanced courses may be taken in the second year. All MS students will complete the core Human Genetics courses as well as the core public health curriculum. Advanced courses offered through human genetics and other departments will provide students instruction in their chosen area of concentration. Examples of courses offered through other departments that may help a student specialize their studies can be found in the general list of suggestions for elective courses. Certificate programs offered through the Graduate School of Public Health can be pursued to further customize the education of MS students.

MS Program Curriculum Year 1

  Fall Semester Spring Semester
Research: Mentored thesis research Mentored thesis research
Human Genetics Courses:
  • Human Population Genetics
  • Molecular Basis of Human Inherited Disease
  • Bioinformatic Resources of Geneticists
  • Human Genetics Seminar
  • Chromosomes Structure and Function
  • Genetics of Complex Disease I
  • Genetics of Complex Disease II
  • Human Genetics Journal Club & Peer Review
  • Human Genetics Seminar
Pitt Public Health Courses:
  • Dean's Public Health Grand Rounds
  • Research Ethics
  • Introduction to Statistical Methods 1
  • Principals of Epidemiology
  • Dean's Public Health Grand Rounds
  • Essentials of Public Health
Research:

Online Training Modules:

  • Responsible Conduct of Research
  • Conflicts of Interest
  • Human Subjects Research
  • Animal Research (if applicable)
  

View course schedule in image format (PNG) »

Planning for Success

An individualized development plan provides an organizational structure for deliberate career planning. Given the competitive job market and diverse career opportunities for scientists, career planning is an essential component of the master of science program. Therefore, MS students will maintain an individualized development plan in which to organize their career goals and document progress toward their professional development. By setting goals, developing and implementing strategies to pursue these goals, and monitoring progress, new MS graduates will achieve greater success in their careers.