Diagnostic Genetic Sciences at UConn

Join a field that's growing at a faster-than-average rate, where demand for qualified genetic laboratorians continues to outpace the supply of skilled workers! Diagnostic genetic scientists are key members of the healthcare team and provide critical testing that influences patient care at all levels. They work in diverse contexts including hospitals and healthcare facilities, private and public laboratories, research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies and industry settings, and governmental and non-governmental agencies. 

The mission of the Diagnostic Genetic Sciences Program is to prepare graduates for careers as integral members of laboratory teams by providing them with didactic and clinical experiences leading to the acquisition of knowledge and technical skills suitable for attaining minimum competency as genetics laboratorians, as defined by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), and for the pursuit of research that will result in advancement of the body of knowledge in the genetic sciences.

In the DGS Program, you will review molecular pathology case reports, study and perform diagnostic testing including genome sequencing, and become familiar with laboratory protocols and professionalism. 

Over 90% of our graduates have passed the national certification exam, and more than 95% find employment or enter graduate programs within 1 year.

The DGS program is available to students who have completed two different levels of education:

• Undergraduate Major (available to UConn students for their junior and senior years)
• Post-Baccalaureate Certificate (available to students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree in a related field)