BSHS Programs in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology at GW
Hybrid or 100% Online
24 Months*
The Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology is a robust molecular biology degree for undergrads who recognize the impact and opportunity that genetic testing methods and molecular diagnostic techniques have in the future of health care solutions. Students who excel at science-based coursework and are passionate about the potential for clinical genomics in medical science are a good fit for this program. This molecular biology degree provides theoretical knowledge and practical skills for positions in diagnostic clinical laboratories, public health laboratories, biotechnology companies, government and law enforcement agencies, and research institutes.
The BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology program has two routes for completion:
- Hybrid BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology
- Degree completion program for non-MLTs
- A combination of online and in-person courses, where students gain hands-on experience with molecular diagnostic techniques and genetic testing methods.
- 100% Online MLT to BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology
- Degree completion program for certified MLTs, with advanced training in molecular diagnostic techniques and clinical genomics.
To learn more about our BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology program, you can register for our upcoming events.
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*The total number of credits and duration of the BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology program depend on the number of transferred credits
Accreditation and Rankings
- GW is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- #62 Best National University*
- #13 Best Online Bachelor's Programs*
- #7 Best Online Programs for Veterans*
* The U.S. News & World Report – 2024 Rankings
Program Highlights
- Qualify to take the ASCP Molecular Biology (MB) Board of Certification Exam*
- Graduate in as few as 24 - 28 months by transferring up to 60 credit hours from a regionally accredited institution.
- The BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology program includes clinical rotations to provide hands-on experience specific to medical genetics in health sciences and molecular biology. Applicants may be eligible to waive individual clinical practicum requirements.
- Ranked 15th in the nation for Best Online Bachelor's Programs
- Earn up to $90,000 a year
Program Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology program, learners will be able to:
- Explain the methods of collection, transport and handling of various specimen types for molecular and genetic analysis.
- Apply molecular and genetic 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 and clinical genetics.
- Analyze molecular and genetic data and patient results to determine test validity and quality using advanced genetic testing methods.
- Apply ethical decision making to issues related to molecular and genetic laboratory practice, including molecular diagnostic techniques and clinical genomics.
Who Is the Ideal Student for This BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology Program?
Molecular testing uses sensitive and specific laboratory techniques to detect and identify biomarkers at the nucleic acid (DNA and RNA) level. Genetic testing methods and molecular diagnostic techniques are increasingly used in many major areas of medicine, including genetic disorders, infectious diseases, cancer, pharmacogenetics, and identity testing. A great example of a molecular-based test is the PCR test used to detect the SARS-CoV2 virus in COVID-19 patients; this test, along with the laboratory scientists trained to perform the test, played a major role in identifying COVID-19 cases during the pandemic. The number of molecular-based laboratory tests is expected to increase dramatically as more information is uncovered about the human genome and disease, highlighting the critical role of clinical genomics.
State Licensure Information
While the completion of this BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology 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. States requiring licensure may require extended duration of practicum experiences. Also, some states, such as New York, do not provide licensure for categorical certification (e.g. Technologist in Molecular Biology).
Career Outlook
- When you graduate from this BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology program, you're prepared to work as a laboratory scientist in:
- diagnostic molecular laboratories
- public health laboratories
- research institutions
- law enforcement agencies
- reference laboratories
- biotechnology firms
- pharmaceutical companies
- Medical genetics and molecular biology scientists earn between $69,618 and $88,718 a year, based on experience, location and certification.
Admission Requirements
To be accepted into this BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology program, you must have:
- Completed application
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 and science GPA of 2.5. (For GAA applicants, a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 and science GPA of 2.5 are required)
- Resume/CV
- Personal statement
- One letter of recommendation (letter of recommendation is waived for GAA applicants)
- Applicants must have at least 45 credits from a regionally accredited college or university in specified courses
Tuition Details
The BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology program at GW consists of 60 credit hours. Please find the cost per credit hour and total estimated program costs here.
Note: Tuition rates are subject to change and additional fees may vary by program.
Meet the Program Director
GW’s experienced faculty provide you with the rich, practical knowledge and support needed for you to succeed in the BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology program and in your career.
Graciela Lopez Gamboa, M.D., MSHS
- Read Full Bio
-
Dr. Graciela Lopez is the current program director for the Molecular Diagnostic Sciences and Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology programs. She started her career in 2006 as a physician in Bolivia, later moving to the US where she continued to work in the medical clinical setting for over 10 years. During this time she became interested both in clinical laboratory sciences as well as being part of academics, and in 2018 she graduated from the MSHS in Molecular Diagnostic Sciences program form George Washington University. The following year she began working with the Biomedical Laboratory Department (BLS) as adjunct faculty and since 2022 she has been in a fulltime faculty member. Nowadays, aside from her program director responsibilities she teaches online courses in the different programs available through our department plus she also teaches the in-person Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology lab for our hybrid students.
Dr. Lopez is passionate about healthcare education and bringing awareness to healthcare careers, especially those within the clinical laboratory setting. She has been involved in developing the Medical Laboratory Technician/Phlebotomy Assistant pathway for the Health Science Academy at Alexandria City Highschool and was the first instructor for that program. She also participated as a mentor for HOSA- Future Health Professionals.
She is currently working on completing the Master Teacher Leadership program through GW University with the goal to continue to improve the courses and programs she is involved with.
She looks forward to working on academic and lab-based research alongside her BLS colleagues, as well as with the students that come through our programs.
Curriculum Details: 100% Online
Students must earn a total of 120 college credit hours to receive the BSHS degree. They may transfer in up to 60 college credit hours from another institution, which are applied toward the general education and advanced standing requirements. They then must earn at least 60 college credit hours at GW to meet the academic residency requirement, of which 48 credit hours are required courses for the major.*
Students must take 6 credits of Writing in the Discipline (WID) courses One WID course is included in the program of study (MLS 3001W). Another WID course will be chosen from HSCI 2112W, HSCI 4112W, or MLS 3007W.
- Click Here to Open the Program Outline
-
Fall Start Term Spring Start Term Summer Start Term Semester 1 MLS 3000: Lab Math (3 cr)
MLS 3001W: Prof Ethics (3 cr)
MLS 4151: Molecular Diag (3 cr)
MLS 3000: Lab Math (3 cr)
MLS 3001W: Prof Ethics (3 cr)
MLS 4141: Immuno/Sero (3 cr)
MLS 3000: Lab Math (3 cr)
MLS 3001W: Prof Ethics (3 cr)
MLS 4141: Immuno/Sero (3 cr)
Semester 2 MLS 2007W: Microbes (3 cr)
MLS 4158: Lab Mgmt (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 2007W: Microbes (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 4170: Molecular Bio (3 cr)
MLS 4171: Hum Genetics (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Semester 3 Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 4170: Molecular Bio (3 cr)
MLS 4171: Hum Genetics (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
CERT 3005: Current Topics (3 cr)
MLS 4158: Lab Mgmt (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Semester 4 MLS 4170: Molecular Bio (3 cr)
MLS 4171: Hum Genetics (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
CERT 3005: Current Topics (3 cr)
MLS 4158: Lab Mgmt (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 2007W: Microbes (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Semester 5 CERT 3005: Current Topics (3 cr)
MLS 4141: Immuno/Sero (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 4217: Molecular Tech (3 cr)
MLS 4242: App of Mol Test (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 4151: Molecular Diag (3 cr)
Semester 6 MLS 4217: Molecular Tech (3 cr)
MLS 4242: App of Mol Test (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 4151: Molecular Diag (3 cr)
MLS 4217: Molecular Tech (3 cr)
MLS 4242: App of Mol Test (3 cr)
Semester 7 MLS 4266: Molecular Practicum (6 cr)
MLS 4172: Capstone (3 cr)
MLS 4266: Molecular Practicum (6 cr)
MLS 4172: Capstone (3 cr)
MLS 4266: Molecular Practicum (6 cr)
MLS 4172: Capstone (3 cr)
Note: These are examples of course sequencing. Summer IS included in our program. Students will work closely with their academic advisor regarding any edits that need to be made to the plan based on successful course completion or offerings.
View List of Courses & Course Descriptions:
- HSCI 1106. Introduction to Biotechnology for Health Sciences. 3 Credits.
-
Concepts in biotechnology with special emphasis on issues and advances in medicine and health care. Restricted to Students in SMHS.
- MLS 3000 Clinical Laboratory Mathematics. 3 Credits.
-
Basic mathematical techniques used in the clinical laboratory, including exponential and logarithms, measurement systems, solutions and concentrations, proportionality, graphing, statistics and quality control, and method evaluation; practical applications of data analysis. An equivalent college-level mathematics course or permission of the program director may be substituted for the prerequisite. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.
- MLS 3001W. Professional Ethics for Medical Laboratory Scientists. 3 Credits.
-
Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science programs. Includes a significant engagement in writing as a form of critical inquiry and scholarly expression to satisfy the WID requirement.
- HSCI 3117. Principles of Biostatistics for Health Sciences. 3 Credits.
-
Biostatistics for health science professionals. Concepts and methods, including confidence intervals, ANOVA, multiple and logistic regression, and non-parametric analyses. Scientific literature is used to provide a comprehensive context in which analytical evidence is employed to support practices in the health sciences.
- HSCI 4106. Introduction to Epidemiology for Health Sciences. 3 Credits.
-
An introduction to epidemiological methods and their applications in the prevention and control of illness, community and clinical interventions, and health services.
- MLS 4141. Immunology and Serology. 3 Credits.
-
Principles of the immune system’s components, functions, interactions with microorganisms, and the clinical applications of immunologic assays to human health and disease.
- MLS 4158. Laboratory Management and Operations. 3 Credits.
-
Introduction to critical concepts of lab management, including leadership theory, management principles, human resource management, financial management, quality management, and laboratory operations.
- MLS 4170 Molecular Biology 3 credits.
-
Foundational course in molecular biology; DNA replication, DNA repair, transcription, translation and gene regulation.
- MLS 4171. Human Genetics. 3 Credits.
-
Hereditary and molecular genetics as it applies to humans.
- MLS 4242. Applications of Molecular Testing. 3 Credits.
-
Application of molecular testing to diagnose various human diseases and disorders.
- MLS 4217. Molecular Techniques. 3 Credits.
-
Theory and processes of current molecular techniques used to diagnose human disease.
- MLS 4151. Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology. 3 Credits.
-
Introduction to the molecular techniques used to diagnose human disease; technology, theory, and methodology of specific molecular protocols that can be used within a clinical laboratory setting to aid in disease diagnostics including those of genetic, oncogenic, and infections origin.
- MLS 4172. Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology Capstone. 3 Credits.
-
Culmination course for the BSHS in molecular diagnostic sciences program. Provides an overview of medical genetics and molecular biology using a case-based approach.
- MLS 4266. Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology Practicum. 6 Credits.
-
Application of molecular techniques in a clinical setting to facilitate the diagnosis of human diseases.
- MLS or HSCI courses. 9 credits.
-
Students can choose 9 credits of MLS or HSCI coursework under the guidance and approval of the program director. Electives will be chosen based on student's background, educational gaps, and student interests/career goals.
Curriculum Details: Hybrid (Blended)
Students must earn a total of 120 college credit hours to receive the BSHS degree. They may transfer in up to 60 college credit hours from another institution, which are applied toward the general education and advanced standing requirements. They then must earn at least 60 college credit hours at GW to meet the academic residency requirement, of which 48 credit hours are required courses for the major.*
* Students may be considered for review with a minimum of 24 transfer credits but will be required to complete any missing general education credit hours in addition to completion of the 60 programmatic hours. Transfer credit hours will be evaluated prior to admission.
* Elective Coursework - Students can choose MLS or HSCI coursework under the guidance and approval of the program director. Electives will be chosen based on student's background, educational gaps, and student interests/career goals.
Students must take 6 credits of Writing in the Discipline (WID) courses. One WID course is included in the program of study (MLS 3001W). Another WID course will be chosen from HSCI 2112W, HSCI 4112W, or MLS 3007W.
- Click Here to Open the Program Outline
-
Fall Start Term Spring Start Term Summer Start Term Semester 1 MLS 3000: Lab Math (3 cr)
MLS 3001W: Prof Ethics (3 cr)
MLS 4151: Molecular Diag (3 cr)
MLS 4251: Mol Diag Lab (1 cr)
MLS 3000: Lab Math (3 cr)
MLS 3001W: Prof Ethics (3 cr)
MLS 4141: Immuno/Sero (3 cr)
MLS 3000: Lab Math (3 cr)
MLS 3001W: Prof Ethics (3 cr)
MLS 4141: Immuno/Sero (3 cr)
Semester 2 MLS 2007W: Microbes (3 cr)
MLS 4158: Lab Mgmt (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 2007W: Microbes (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 4170: Molecular Bio (3 cr)
MLS 4171: Hum Genetics (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Semester 3 Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 4170: Molecular Bio (3 cr)
MLS 4171: Hum Genetics (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 4158: Lab Mgmt (3 cr)
CERT 3005: Current Topics (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Semester 4 MLS 4170: Molecular Bio (3 cr)
MLS 4171: Hum Genetics (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 4158: Lab Mgmt (3 cr)
CERT 3005: Current Topics (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 2007W: Microbes (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Semester 5 MLS 4141: Immuno/Sero (3 cr)
CERT 3005: Current Topics (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 4217: Molecular Tech (3 cr)
MLS 4242: App of Mol Test (3 cr)
MLS 4252: App of Mol Test Lab (2 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 4151: Molecular Diag (3 cr)
MLS 4251: Mol Diag Lab (1 cr)
Semester 6 MLS 4217: Molecular Tech (3 cr)
MLS 4242: App of Mol Test (3 cr)
MLS 4252: App of Mol Test Lab (2 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 4151: Molecular Diag (3 cr)
MLS 4251: Mol Diag Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4217: Molecular Tech (3 cr)
MLS 4242: App of Mol Test (3 cr)
MLS 4252: App of Mol Test Lab (2 cr)
Semester 7 MLS 4266: Molecular Practicum (6 cr)
MLS 4172: Capstone (3 cr)
MLS 4266: Molecular Practicum (6 cr)
MLS 4172: Capstone (3 cr)
MLS 4266: Molecular Practicum (6 cr)
MLS 4172: Capstone (3 cr)
Note: These are examples of course sequencing. Summer IS included in our program. Students will work closely with their academic advisor regarding any edits that need to be made to the plan based on successful course completion or offerings.
View List of Courses & Course Descriptions:
- HSCI 1106. Introduction to Biotechnology for Health Sciences. 3 Credits.
-
Concepts in biotechnology with special emphasis on issues and advances in medicine and health care. Restricted to Students in SMHS.
- MLS 3000 Clinical Laboratory Mathematics. 3 Credits.
-
Basic mathematical techniques used in the clinical laboratory, including exponential and logarithms, measurement systems, solutions and concentrations, proportionality, graphing, statistics and quality control, and method evaluation; practical applications of data analysis. An equivalent college-level mathematics course or permission of the program director may be substituted for the prerequisite. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.
- MLS 3001W. Professional Ethics for Medical Laboratory Scientists. 3 Credits.
-
Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science programs. Includes a significant engagement in writing as a form of critical inquiry and scholarly expression to satisfy the WID requirement.
- HSCI 3117. Principles of Biostatistics for Health Sciences. 3 Credits.
-
Biostatistics for health science professionals. Concepts and methods, including confidence intervals, ANOVA, multiple and logistic regression, and non-parametric analyses. Scientific literature is used to provide a comprehensive context in which analytical evidence is employed to support practices in the health sciences
- HSCI 4106. Introduction to Epidemiology for Health Sciences. 3 Credits.
-
An introduction to epidemiological methods and their applications in the prevention and control of illness, community and clinical interventions, and health services.
- MLS 4141. Immunology and Serology. 3 Credits.
-
Principles of the immune system’s components, functions, interactions with microorganisms, and the clinical applications of immunologic assays to human health and disease.
- MLS 4158. Laboratory Management and Operations. 3 Credits.
-
Introduction to critical concepts of lab management, including leadership theory, management principles, human resource management, financial management, quality management, and laboratory operations. Proctor fee.
- MLS 4170 Molecular Biology 3 credits.
-
Foundational course in molecular biology; DNA replication, DNA repair, transcription, translation and gene regulation.
- MLS 4171. Human Genetics. 3 Credits.
-
Hereditary and molecular genetics as it applies to humans.
- MLS 4242. Applications of Molecular Testing. 3 Credits.
-
Application of molecular testing to diagnose various human diseases and disorders.
- MLS 4217. Molecular Techniques. 3 Credits.
-
Theory and processes of current molecular techniques used to diagnose human disease.
- MLS 4151. Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology. 3 Credits.
-
Introduction to the molecular techniques used to diagnose human disease; technology, theory, and methodology of specific molecular protocols that can be used within a clinical laboratory setting to aid in disease diagnostics including those of genetic, oncogenic, and infections origin.
- MLS 4172. Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology Capstone. 3 Credits.
-
Culmination course for the BSHS in molecular diagnostic sciences program. Provides an overview of medical genetics and molecular biology using a case-based approach.
- MLS 4266. Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology Practicum. 6 Credits.
-
Application of molecular techniques in a clinical setting to facilitate the diagnosis of human diseases.
- MLS or HSCI courses. 9 credits.
-
Students can choose 9 credits of MLS or HSCI coursework under the guidance and approval of the program director. Electives will be chosen based on student's background, educational gaps, and student interests/career goals.
- MLS 4251. Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory. 1 Credit.
-
An introduction to the theory of and laboratory techniques in molecular biology with an emphasis on molecular and serological techniques, including DNA extraction and quantitation, restriction enzyme digestion, polymerase chain reaction, agarose gel electrophoresis, flow cytometry, and ELISA. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.
- MLS 4252. Applications of Molecular Testing Laboratory. 2 Credits.
-
Molecular-based testing to determine human disease causation.
Optional Concentration
All students can choose to complete a concentration in either assisted reproductive technology or microbiology. Credits taken in the concentration count toward the elective requirement.
Assisted reproductive technology concentration:
| CERT 3004 | Endocrinology for Health Sciences |
| CERT 4010 | Clinical Human Embryology |
| CERT 4012 | Clinical Human Andrology |
| CERT 4014 | Human Reproductive Cryobiology |
| MLS 4995 | Independent Research in Biomedical Laboratory Science |
Microbiology concetration:
| MLS 2005 | Plagues, Pandemics, and Epidemics |
| MLS 4116 | Clinical Bacteriology I |
| MLS 4117 | Clinical Bacteriology II |
| MLS 4119 | Parasitology, Mycology, and Virology |
| MLS 4164 | Clinical Microbiology Practicum |
| MLS 4216 | Clinical Bacteriology Laboratory ((hybrid option only)) |
| MLS 4219 | Parasitology, Mycology, and Virology Laboratory ((Hybrid option only)) |
| MLS 4995 | Independent Research in Biomedical Laboratory Science |
Key Dates
|
Summer 2025 |
Fall 2025 |
Spring 2026 |
|
| Application Deadline |
March 20, 2025 (Closed) |
July 20, 2025 (Open) |
November 19, 2025 (Open) |
| Scholarship Application Deadline |
April 15, 2025 (Closed) |
August 12, 2025 (Open) |
December 16, 2024 (Closed) |
Learn more about our scholarships
Admission Requirements: 100% Online
GW SMHS does not admit first-time college freshmen or provide general education courses; therefore, students are expected to enroll at another institution of higher education for at least one semester during an academic year following their high school graduation, and prior to transferring into GW.
To apply for the BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology (100% Online), you’ll need:
- Completed application
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 and science GPA of 2.5. (For GAA applicants, a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 and science GPA of 2.5 are required)
- Resume/CV
- Personal statement: Applicants must include a 250–500 word essay describing your reasons for undertaking study at GW, your academic objectives, career goals, and related qualifications including collegiate, professional, and community activities relevant to your program of interest. Include any substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application form.
- One letter of recommendation (letter of recommendation is waived for GAA applicants)
Letter of recommendation should be from:- Academic instructors who can strongly attest to your academic ability, and/or
- Individuals who served in a supervisory capacity for you, and who can strongly attest to your work ethic.
- The recommender cannot be a family member or friend.
Recommender will submit a letter on letterhead with a signature and credentials/contact information via the application portal.
- Prospective students must submit verification of MLT certification or proof of graduation from a NAACLS accredited MLT program within 6 months of their start term
- Students residing beyond 25 miles outside of the Washington, DC metropolitan area and/or who wish to complete the clinical practicums in their area of residence must have identified an acceptable, accredited (i.e., TJC, CAP, etc.) clinical laboratory willing to provide the clinical instruction. A Clinical Site Verification (CSV) form must be filled out by the laboratory manager/director or the education coordinator of the facility and submitted to the appropriate program clinical coordinator for approval.
- Official transcripts from every college and university attended. All non-U.S. transcripts (including those in English) must be evaluated by an accredited foreign credential agency. Please find the list of member organizations here: https://www.naces.org/members.
- Applicants must have at least 45 credits from a regionally accredited college or university, which include the coursework specified below:
| Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|
| English Composition (composition I & II) | 6 credits |
| College Mathematics (algebra, statistics, or higher) | 3 credits |
| Humanities | 3 credits |
| Social Sciences | 6 credits |
| Biology (lecture and hands-on lab) | 8 credits |
| Chemistry (lecture and hands-on lab) | 8 credits |
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.
Transfer credit may include dual enrollment coursework. It may also be considered from Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate Credit (IB) credit as well as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP exams). Please refer to GW Undergraduate Admissions for information on maximum credits, minimum scores, and GW course equivalents for AP and IB credits.
Admission Requirements: Hybrid (Blended)
GW SMHS does not admit first-time college freshmen or provide general education courses; therefore, students are expected to enroll at another institution of higher education for at least one semester during an academic year following their high school graduation, and prior to transferring into GW.
To apply for the BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology (hybrid), you’ll need:
- Completed application
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 and science GPA of 2.5. (For GAA applicants, a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 and science GPA of 2.5 are required)
- Resume/CV
- Personal statement
- One letter of recommendation (letter of recommendation is waived for GAA applicants)
- Students residing beyond 25 miles outside of the Washington, DC metropolitan area and/or who wish to complete the clinical practicums in their area of residence must have identified an acceptable, accredited (i.e., TJC, CAP, etc.) clinical laboratory willing to provide the clinical instruction. A Clinical Site Verification (CSV) form must be filled out by the laboratory manager/director or the education coordinator of the facility and submitted to the appropriate program clinical coordinator for approval.
- Applicants must have at least 45 credits from a regionally accredited college or university, which include the coursework specified below:
| Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|
| English Composition (composition I & II) | 6 credits |
| College Mathematics (algebra, statistics, or higher) | 3 credits |
| Humanities | 3 credits |
| Social Sciences | 6 credits |
| Biology (lecture and hands-on lab) | 8 credits |
| Chemistry (lecture and hands-on lab) | 8 credits |
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.
Transfer credit may include dual enrollment coursework. It may also be considered from Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate Credit (IB) credit as well as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP exams). Please refer to GW Undergraduate Admissions for information on maximum credits, minimum scores, and GW course equivalents for AP and IB credits.
International Students
Effective Fall 2025
International students should check with individual programs regarding eligibility for visa sponsorship. Generally, online and hybrid programs are not eligible for student visa sponsorship from GW. This would include transfer students from any other institution with an existing visa. To be considered for admission, there are required scores that you will need to meet. Score requirements may differ by school and program so check the admissions requirements for your program.
Applicants who have not completed a post-secondary degree from an institution where English is the sole language of instruction are required to submit TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, or the Duolingo English Test scores to be considered for admission. The following are the minimum scores for admission consideration:
- TOEFL: 600 on paper based, 250 on computer-based, or 100 Internet-based,
- PTE: overall score of 68,
- IELTS: an overall band score of 7.0, with no individual band score below 6.0
- DET overall score of 120.
Undergraduate applicants who meet one of the following conditions may be considered for admission without submitting TOEFL, PTE or IELTS or DET scores:
- You have earned an associate’s degree or higher from an institution where English is the sole language of instruction
- You are a citizen of an English-speaking country
Scores may not be more than two years old. To ensure TOEFL scores are sent to GW, use institutional code 5246. An institutional code is not required to send IELTS or PTE scores to GW. DET scores must be submitted via the Duolingo English Test system directly to GW.
Based on the results of your English Proficiency exam results and your application, you may be required to take English for Academic Purposes (EAP) during your first year of study at GW. Please note that GW evaluates each application holistically so applicants may still be recommended for EAP even if they meet the requirements for exemption. Students placed in EAP courses should anticipate additional tuition expenses as well as possible extension of time needed to complete their degree programs.
Official transcripts from institutions outside the U.S. must be accompanied by an official transcript evaluation from an accredited independent evaluating agency. Please be sure you request a detailed evaluation that includes all course titles, credit hours, grades, U.S. degree equivalency, grade-point averages (GPA), and date of degree conferral (course by course evaluation). For a list of acceptable foreign credential evaluation services, please visit NACES.
Supporting documents not submitted online should be mailed to:
Mail: George Washington University
ATTN: Transcript Processing Center
1415 W 22nd St.
Suite 220
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Alternatively, official electronic transcripts can be sent to: transcripts [at] hsprograms [dot] gwu [dot] edu (transcripts[at]hsprograms[dot]gwu[dot]edu)