BSHS in Molecular Diagnostic Sciences
BSHS in Molecular Diagnostic Sciences
The George Washington University’s (GW) online Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) in Molecular Diagnostic Sciences gives you the knowledge to work with DNA, RNA, proteins, and lipids to detect, diagnose, and monitor disease, and select optimal therapies.
Through a series of online coursework, hands-on labs, and clinical rotations, you’ll learn the clinical laboratory techniques to detect and identify biomarkers at the nucleic acid levels in major areas of medicine including genetic disorders, infectious diseases, cancer, pharmacogenetics, and identity testing.
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Quick Facts
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tuition
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Accreditation and Rankings
- Fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
- #66 Best National University*
- #19 Best Online Bachelor’s Programs*
* U.S. News & World Report‘s 2021 Best Colleges Rankings
Program Highlights
- Qualify to take the ASCP Molecular Biology (MB) Board of Certification Exam*
- Graduate in as few as 28 months by transferring up to 60 credit hours from a regionally accredited institution
Curriculum
The fully online BSHS with a major in Molecular Diagnostic Sciences will prepare you for a laboratory career with its rigorous academic coursework.
View CoursesProgram Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:
- Explain the methods of collection, transport and handling of various specimen types for molecular analysis.
- Apply molecular-based testing for laboratory utilization and clinical decisions for patient/client outcomes
- Implement preventive and corrective maintenance programs for equipment and assays, as well as troubleshoot and evaluate appropriate actions for problem resolution
- Apply knowledge of molecular and genetic theory and principles as they relate to human disease diagnosis.
- Analyze molecular data and patient results to determine test validity and quality
- Apply ethical decision making to issues related to molecular laboratory practice
Who Is the Ideal Student for This Program?
Typically offered at the master’s level, the online BSHS in Molecular Diagnostic Sciences is a robust program for undergrads who recognize the impact and opportunity that molecular testing has in the future of health care solutions.
Students who excel at science-based coursework and are passionate about the potential for molecular testing in medical science are a good fit for this program.
To complete the online portion of the degree, you must be organized and independent. A fully online option is available to professionals who are ASCP or AMT MLT certified.
Career Outlook
Given the rise of commercialized, at-home DNA testing kits and recently proven medical capabilities, particularly in cancer diagnosis and treatment, the need for professionals who can ethically and properly manage the challenges of molecular testing and the data it provides is great.
When you graduate with the BSHS in Molecular Diagnostic Sciences from GW, you’re prepared to work as a laboratory scientist in a diagnostic molecular laboratory, public health laboratory, research institution, law enforcement agency, the molecular section of hospital laboratories, reference laboratory, biotechnology firm, or pharmaceutical company.
Medical technologists with molecular biology skills earn between $43,202 and $72,705 a year.1
Admission Requirements
To apply for the BSHS in Molecular Diagnostic Sciences, you’ll need:
- Completed application
- 2.5 GPA or above on a 4.0 scale
- Resume/CV
- Personal statement
- One letter of recommendation
If you have an associate degree from a participating D.C., Maryland, Virginia community college, you may be eligible for guaranteed admission to this program. Review the list of participating institutions or complete this form to speak with an Online Admissions Advisor for more details.
See All RequirementsTuition Details
The BSHS in Molecular Diagnostic Sciences program at GW consists of 60 credit hours and costs $635 per credit hour.
Note: Tuition rates are subject to change and additional fees may vary by program. Please call at (844) 386-7323 for more information.
Get Tuition DetailsFrequently Asked Questions
As you explore an online program at the George Washington University, our dedicated staff is here to support you. If you have a question we don’t cover here, request more information or call 844-386-7323.
Visit our FAQ pageSources:
- Payscale.com. (18 February 2020). Average Medical Technologist with Molecular Biology Skills. Retrieved March 12, 2020, from https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Medical_Technologist/Hourly_Rate/bed0654f/Molecular-Biology.
* While the completion of this program will make graduates eligible to register for an ASCP Board of Certification Exam, this does not automatically guarantee a graduate will also meet their state’s requirements for state licensure (if applicable). Since each state may have different requirements for licensure, each student is encouraged to contact their state’s regulating agency and review these requirements prior to beginning any degree program.
New York Residents – We advise applicants who are considering New York state licensure to review license requirements before accepting admission to the program.