Dual Degree: BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology / MSHS in Clinical Microbiology

   Curriculum Details

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.

BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology Program of Study (Hybrid)

Required Courses & Electives (Can be transferred in or taken at GW)

Organic Chemistry or Biochemistry (students that take the course at GW will take MLS 3003 - Biochemistry for Laboratory Sciences) (3 credits)

Concepts and principles of biochemistry applicable to laboratory science; structure and function of biological molecules, cellular energetics, and cellular metabolism in relation to human physiology and health.

HSCI 1106 or equivalent course - Introduction to Biotechnology for Health Sciences (3 credits)

Concepts in biotechnology with special emphasis on issues and advances in medicine and health care.

HSCI 3106 or equivalent course - Microbiology for Health Sciences (3 credits)

Principles of microbiology with emphasis on microorganisms that impact health and cause human disease. Topics include an overview of microbiology and aspects of medical microbiology, identification and control of pathogens, disease transmission, host resistance, and immunity.

HSCI 3108 or equivalent course - Microbiology for Health Sciences Laboratory (1 credit)

Practical study of bacteria, yeasts, molds, protozoa, and viruses in relation to the health professions.

Electives (16 credits)

 

Required and Elective Total Credits (Major Courses - Must be taken at GW)

MLS 2007W -  Microbes & Society (3 credits)

The ways in which microorganisms shape human society, with special emphasis on the role of microbes in food production, agriculture, biotechnology, and disease. Includes a significant engagement in writing as a form of critical inquiry and scholarly expression to satisfy the WID requirement.

MLS 3001W - Professional Ethics for Medical Laboratory Scientists (3 credits)

Ethical and professional conduct of and dilemmas encountered by medical laboratory professionals. 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.

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 3005 - Current Topics in Biomedical Science (3 credits)

Topics vary by semester. May be repeated for credit provided topic differs.

MLS 6141 - Advanced Immunology and Serology (3 credits)

The immune system, various immune-related diseases, and the clinical applications of immunology related to the diagnosis and monitoring of human diseases.

MLS 6158 - Advanced Laboratory Management and Operations (3 credits)

An 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 4217- Molecular Techniques (3 credits)

Theory and processes of current molecular techniques used to diagnose human disease.

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 4266 - Molecular Practicum (6 credits)

Application of molecular techniques in a clinical setting to facilitate the diagnosis of human diseases. Students must have earned a minimum grade of C in all prerequisite courses. Instructor permission may be substituted for prerequisites.

MLS 4172 - Molecular Capstone (3 credits)

Culmination course for the BSHS in medical genetics and molecular biology program. Provides an overview of medical genetics and molecular biology using a case-based approach. Students must have earned a minimum grade of C in all prerequisite courses in order to enroll in this course. Program director approval may be substituted for prerequisite courses.

MLS 6151 - Advanced Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology (3 credits)

Overview of molecular biology and genetic concepts as well as molecular techniques used to diagnose human diseases. The technology, theory, and methodology of molecular protocols used within a clinical and research laboratory setting.

MLS 4251 – Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory

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.

MLS 4252 – Applications of Molecular Testing Laboratory

Molecular-based testing to determine human disease causation.

Elective courses (HSCI, MLS or CERT courses) – 15 credits

MSHS in Clinical Microbiology Program of Study

A GPA of 3.0 or higher is required in order to move onto the MSHS program.

View the list of courses:

MLS 6216 - Microbial Pathogenesis (3 credits)

A comprehensive overview of the molecular basis of diseases caused by microbial pathogens with a focus on model microbial systems to illustrate mechanisms of the human infectious disease process.

MLS 6217 - Medical Biotechnology (3 credits)

Comprehensive overview of current molecular technologies and how they are used in modern medicine.

MLS 6116 - Advanced Clinical Bacteriology I (3 credits)

Principles of clinical microbiology with emphasis on pathogenic characteristics, isolation, and identification of medically significant bacteria.

MLS 6117 - Advanced Clinical Bacteriology II (2 credits)

Etiology of infectious diseases in different body sites using a case study‐based approach; epidemiology, pathogenic mechanisms, and laboratory identification of suspected etiologic agents; commonly encountered clinical bacterial species.

MLS 6119 - Advanced Clinical Parasitology, Mycology and Virology (2 credits)

Provides a systematic approach to the biology and epidemiology of human parasitic, fungal, and viral diseases.

HSCI 6263 - Biostatistics for Clinical & Translational Research (3 credits)

Basic concepts and methods of biostatistics applied to translational research. Topics include distributions, populations and sample selection, variables, interaction and confounding, hypothesis formulation, correlation, t-tests, ANOVA, regression, and chi.

MLS 6244 - Research Ethics & Scientific Integrity (3 credits)

This course addresses traditional and modern topics in research ethics and scientific integrity. The purpose of this course is to emphasize ethical theory and principles of bioethics while planning and conduction scientific studies. Through lectures, reading assignments, case studies and discussion sessions, the following topics are covered: ethical theory and principles, scientific and academic integrity, informed consent in research; Intuitional Review Boards and the use of human subjects in research. IACUC and the use of animals in research, Institutional Biosafety Committees and the use of recombinant DNA in research; conflicts of interest and commitment; authorship and publication; the peer-review process; collaboration and mentoring; methodology, data reporting and data management; ownership of data and intellectual property; whistleblowing and dispute resolution; and privacy and confidentiality. Students learn to conduct unbiased peer-review, conduct research and report on an independent examination of a case of research misconduct or other ethical issue, and participate in oral scientific and ethical discussions.

MLS 6251 - Clinical Microbiology Practicum (2 credits)

Practical application of the medical knowledge and clinical skills gained in MLS 6116, MLS 6117, and MLS 6119.

Elective courses (HSCI or MLS-designated courses) – 18 credits

Key Dates

Learn more about our scholarships

This is a degree completion program that requires successful completion of 120 credit hours. Students must transfer in a minimum of 45 credits and a maximum of 60 credits to satisfy general education and advanced standing requirements.  Students must complete a minimum of 60 credits at GW.

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.

Admission Requirements

To apply for the BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology and MSHS in Clinical Microbiology (Hybrid), you’ll need:

• Completed application
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a science GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
• 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.
• Two letters of recommendation

Letters 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.

• 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:

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

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.

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. For a list of acceptable foreign credential evaluation services, please visit NACES.

Applicants who are not U.S. citizens are also required to submit official test scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or Pearson’s Test of English (PTE) Academics or the academic International English Language Test System (IELTS). 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.

Supporting Documents and Official Transcript

Documents and Official Transcripts not submitted online should be mailed to:

Mail: George Washington University
ATTN: Transcript Processing Center
1415 W 22^nd St.
Suite 220
Oak Brook, IL 60523

Alternatively, official electronic transcripts can be sent to: transcripts@hsprograms.gwu.edu

   Curriculum Details

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.

BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology Program of Study (100% Online)

Required Courses & Electives (Can be transferred in or taken at GW)

Organic Chemistry or Biochemistry (students that take the course at GW will take MLS 3003 - Biochemistry for Laboratory Sciences) (3 credits)

Concepts and principles of biochemistry applicable to laboratory science; structure and function of biological molecules, cellular energetics, and cellular metabolism in relation to human physiology and health.

HSCI 1106 or equivalent course - Introduction to Biotechnology for Health Sciences (3 credits)

Concepts in biotechnology with special emphasis on issues and advances in medicine and health care.

HSCI 3106 or equivalent course - Microbiology for Health Sciences (3 credits)

Principles of microbiology with emphasis on microorganisms that impact health and cause human disease. Topics include an overview of microbiology and aspects of medical microbiology, identification and control of pathogens, disease transmission, host resistance, and immunity.

HSCI 3108 or equivalent course - Microbiology for Health Sciences Laboratory (1 credit)

Practical study of bacteria, yeasts, molds, protozoa, and viruses in relation to the health professions.

Concentration Options

Students in the fully online BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology program can opt to complete one of the following concentrations.  To complete a concentration, students would need to complete the following required courses within their chosen concentration as their elective credits.

If doing dual degree, the Microbiology concentration would not be advised since many of the courses would be completed at the graduate level in the MSHS program.

Microbiology Concentration

MLS 4116 - Clinical Bacteriology I (3 credits)

MLS 4116: Principles of clinical microbiology with emphasis on pathogenic characteristics, isolation, and identification of bacteria related to human disease; theoretical approach to the current diagnostic techniques and identification systems used in clinical practice. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.

Prerequisites: BISC 1111

MLS 4117 - Clinical Bacteriology II (2 credits)

The etiology of infectious diseases in different body sites with an emphasis on the epidemiology, pathogenic mechanisms, and laboratory identification of suspected etiologic agents; specimen collection and handling, diagnosis and treatment of medically significant bacteria. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.

Prerequisites: BISC 1111

MLS 4119 - Parasitology, Mycology and Virology (2 credits)

Principles and procedures involved in the diagnosis of parasitic, fungal, and viral infections; disease causation, specimen collection and handling, laboratory identification and treatment of medically significant fungi, parasites, and viruses. Proctor fee. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.

Prerequisites: BISC 1112; or BISC 1116 and BISC 1126

MLS 4164 - Microbiology Practicum (4 credits)

Students apply medical knowledge and clinical skills gained in MLS 4123 (Clinical Microbiology I), MLS 4124 (Clinical Microbiology II), and MLS 4151 (Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology). Proctor fee

MLS 3001 - Plagues, Pandemics and Epidemics (3 credits)

Ethical and professional conduct of and dilemmas encountered by medical laboratory professionals. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.

MLS 2007 - Microbes and Society (3 credits)

The ways in which microorganisms shape human society, with special emphasis on the role of microbes in food production, agriculture, biotechnology, and disease. Includes a significant engagement in writing as a form of critical inquiry and scholarly expression to satisfy the WID requirement.

Assisted Reproductive Technology Concentration

CERT 3004 - Endocrinology for Health Sciences (3 credits)

How hormones influence information flow from cells and tissues, focusing on the reproductive system; classes of hormones, sources and synthesis of hormones, receptors and target tissues, mechanisms of action and regulation, and endocrinology methods.

Prerequisites: BISC 1111

CERT 4010 - Clinical Embryology (3 credits)

Physiology of the female reproductive system; gamete biology, fertilization and early embryo development; embryo culture techniques, intracytoplasmic sperm Injection (ICSI), and embryo selection and transfer. Proctor fee.

Prerequisites: BISC 1111

CERT 4012 - Clinical Andrology (3 credits)

The physiology of the male reproductive system; sperm anatomy and motility, seminal plasma, and male gamete biology. Proctor fee.

Prerequisites: BISC 1111

CERT 4014 - Human Reproductive Cryobiology (3 credits)

Theory and methods used to freeze sperm, testicular tissues and embryos for use during in vitro fertilization procedures. Cryo-injuries and vitrification solutions. Proctor fee.

Prerequisites: BISC 1111

MLS 3001 - Professional Ethics for MLS (3 credits)

Ethical and professional conduct of and dilemmas encountered by medical laboratory professionals. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.

MSHS in Clinical Microbiology Program of Study

A GPA of 3.0 or higher is required in order to move onto the MSHS program.

View the List of Courses:

MLS 6216 - Microbial Pathogenesis (3 credits)

A comprehensive overview of the molecular basis of diseases caused by microbial pathogens with a focus on model microbial systems to illustrate mechanisms of the human infectious disease process.

MLS 6217 - Medical Biotechnology (3 credits)

Comprehensive overview of current molecular technologies and how they are used in modern medicine.

MLS 6141 - Advanced Immunology and Serology (3 credits)

The immune system, various immune-related diseases, and the clinical applications of immunology related to the diagnosis and monitoring of human diseases.

MLS 6116 - Advanced Clinical Bacteriology I (3 credits)

Principles of clinical microbiology with emphasis on pathogenic characteristics, isolation, and identification of medically significant bacteria. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.

Prerequisites: BISC 1111

MLS 6117 - Advanced Clinical Bacteriology II (2 credits)

Etiology of infectious diseases in different body sites using a case study‐based approach; epidemiology, pathogenic mechanisms, and laboratory identification of suspected etiologic agents; commonly encountered clinical bacterial species. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.

Prerequisites: BISC 1111 and MLS 6116

MLS 6119 - Advanced Clinical Parasitology, Mycology and Virology (2 credits)

Provides a systematic approach to the biology and epidemiology of human parasitic, fungal, and viral diseases. Proctor fee. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.

Prerequisites: BISC 1112; or BISC 1116 and BISC 1126

MLS 6158 - Advanced Laboratory Management and Operations (3 credits)

An introduction to critical concepts of lab management, including leadership theory, management principles, human resource management, financial management, quality management, and laboratory operations.

Prerequisites: HSCI 2100 and HSCI 2117; for HSCI 2100 an equivalent English course and for HSCI 2117 an equivalent college-level math course may be substituted at the instructor's discretion.

MLS 6151 - Advanced Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology (3 credits)

Overview of molecular biology and genetic concepts as well as molecular techniques used to diagnose human diseases. The technology, theory, and methodology of molecular protocols used within a clinical and research laboratory setting.

HSCI 6263 - Biostatistics for Clinical & Translational Research (3 credits)

Basic concepts and methods of biostatistics applied to translational research. Topics include distributions, populations and sample selection, variables, interaction and confounding, hypothesis formulation, correlation, t-tests, ANOVA, regression, and chi.

MLS 6244 - Research Ethics & Scientific Integrity (3 credits)

This course addresses traditional and modern topics in research ethics and scientific integrity. The purpose of this course is to emphasize ethical theory and principles of bioethics while planning and conduction scientific studies. Through lectures, reading assignments, case studies and discussion sessions, the following topics are covered: ethical theory and principles, scientific and academic integrity, informed consent in research; Intuitional Review Boards and the use of human subjects in research. IACUC and the use of animals in research, Institutional Biosafety Committees and the use of recombinant DNA in research; conflicts of interest and commitment; authorship and publication; the peer-review process; collaboration and mentoring; methodology, data reporting and data management; ownership of data and intellectual property; whistleblowing and dispute resolution; and privacy and confidentiality. Students learn to conduct unbiased peer-review, conduct research and report on an independent examination of a case of research misconduct or other ethical issue, and participate in oral scientific and ethical discussions.

MLS 6251 - Clinical Microbiology Practicum (2 credits)

Practical application of the medical knowledge and clinical skills gained in ML 6116, MLS 6117, and MLS 6119. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.

Prerequisites: MLS 6116, MLS 6117, MLS 6119 and MLS 6141

Key Dates

Learn more about our scholarships

This is a degree completion program that requires successful completion of 120 credit hours. Students must transfer in a minimum of 45 credits and a maximum of 60 credits to satisfy general education and advanced standing requirements.  Students must complete a minimum of 60 credits at GW.

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.

Admission Requirements

To apply for the BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology and MSHS in Clinical Microbiology (100% Online), you’ll need:

• Completed application
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a science GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
• 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.
• Two letters of recommendation

Letters 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:

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

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.

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. For a list of acceptable foreign credential evaluation services, please visit NACES.

Applicants who are not U.S. citizens are also required to submit official test scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or Pearson’s Test of English (PTE) Academics or the academic International English Language Test System (IELTS). 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.

Supporting Documents and Official Transcript

Documents and Official Transcripts not submitted online should be mailed to:

Mail: George Washington University
ATTN: Transcript Processing Center
1415 W 22^nd St.
Suite 220
Oak Brook, IL 60523

Alternatively, official electronic transcripts can be sent to: transcripts@hsprograms.gwu.edu