Looking for an exciting and challenging laboratory career?

Diagnostic Genetic Sciences is a unique major focusing on laboratory analysis in genetics and genomics. Students gain knowledge and hands-on experience evaluating DNA, RNA, and protein for disease prediction, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options. Graduates of the UConn Diagnostic Genetic Science (DGS) program are desirable candidates in a high-demand job market. DGS graduates have a competitive advantage for genetic counseling, life sciences, and medical graduate programs. 

Application Deadlines

Undergraduate:

February 15

Certificate:

For preferred consideration, apply by February 1st to begin the following fall semester. Later applications may be considered on a space-available basis.

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:

What are they saying?

 

headshot of Jen Nguyen

Jen Nguyen, 2021 Diagnostic Genetic Sciences graduate

“The Diagnostic Genetic Sciences program was a great launching pad for me, especially in the clinical practicum which builds confidence for any lab work in genetics/biotech. The Diagnostic Genetics Sciences alumni network is strong and supportive..."

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