Work at the Forefront of Disease Detection
Hybrid or 100% Online
48 Months*
The George Washington University (GW) offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology and a Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) in Clinical Microbiology all in one convenient program.
Through online coursework, hands-on lab work and clinical rotations this dual-degree program provides you with the knowledge and skills to detect and identify biomarkers at the nucleic acid levels in major areas of medicine and to identify and investigate human infectious diseases.
Our dual health sciences degrees are for undergraduate students serious about building their careers quickly. Attention to detail is a must because methods, data, and quality control will be at the center of what you do. If you’re passionate about bringing new standards of excellence to the field and making an impact on health care with molecular testing and clinical microbiology, this program could be a good fit for you.
To learn more about our programs, you can register for our upcoming events.
*The total number of credits and duration of the program depend on the number of transferred credits
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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
What are Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology?
A diagnostic molecular scientist is a professional who is qualified by academic and applied education to provide service in medical genetics and molecular biology of acquired, inherited and infectious diseases. Medical genetics and molecular biology testing uses sensitive and specific clinical laboratory techniques to detect and identify biomarkers at the nucleic acid (DNA and RNA) level. Common applications of molecular methods include medical diagnosis, establishing prognosis, monitoring the course of disease, and selecting optimal therapies. Molecular methods are also used in both forensic and non-forensic identification. Medical genetics and molecular biology tests are increasingly used in many major areas of medicine including genetic disorders, infectious diseases, cancer, pharmacogenetics and identity testing.
Moreover, the number of molecular-based laboratory tests is expected to increase dramatically as more information is uncovered about the human genome and disease. Although the medical laboratory sciences (MLS) program includes medical genetics and molecular biology as a three-credit course, molecular biology has become a separate field within the laboratory sciences. For example, medical genetics and molecular biology questions are not included as part of the MLS board of certification exam. There is a separate board exam specifically for Molecular Biology that leads to an independent certification, MB(ASCP) as well as a Specialist in Molecular Biology certification (SMB(ASCP). Some, smaller laboratories include molecular testing within their microbiology section. Consequently, a combined baccalaureate degree in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology and a graduate degree in Clinical Microbiology make a very nice combination.
Learn About the Dual Degree Program in BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology / MSHS in Clinical Microbiology at GW
The overall goal of the proposed program is to prepare graduates with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills for positions in diagnostic clinical molecular laboratories, public health laboratories, biotechnology companies, government agencies, law enforcement agencies, and research institutes.
Expand the accordions below for more information about each program.
- Hybrid (Blended)
-
- The blended program has online and on campus requirement. Students need to reside in or relocate to the D.C. area, have completed an associate’s degree or a minimum of 24 credits, and are not Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) certified through ASCP, AMT, or AAB.
- This program provides 100% of didactic (lecture) courses online, in-person labs at the GW Virginia Science and Technology Campus (VSTC) in Ashburn, VA, and practicum at an approved diagnostic laboratory.
- Geared for students who are not MLT certified, such as individuals with an Associate degree in biology, biotechnology or applied sciences, and want to complete a baccalaureate degree in the medical genetics and molecular biology sciences.
- Fully Online
-
- A 100% online program is available for students who have Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) certification through ASCP, AMT, or AAB, and have completed an accredited MLT program.
- This program provides 100% of didactic (lecture) coursework online with practicum experience in the student’s local area. All didactic (lecture) courses are conducted online in a flexible, asynchronous format. To succeed in this program, students should be self-disciplined, self-directed, and comfortable scheduling their own coursework.
- Geared for certified MLT’s who want a baccalaureate degree focusing on Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology.
Program Highlights
- Qualify to take the ASCP Molecular Biology (MB) and the Microbiology (M) Board of Certification examinations*
- Finish both degrees fully online if you are an MLT-certified professional
- Financial aid eligible
- > 90% average pass rate on ASCP board of certification exams
- Qualify for the ASCP Molecular Biology (MB) and the Microbiology (M) board of
certification exams
Program Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the program, learners will be able to:
- Perform molecular-based testing for laboratory utilization and clinical decisions for patient/client outcomes
- Apply knowledge of molecular, genetic, and infectious disease theory and principles as they relate to human disease diagnosis
- Analyze data and patient results
- Apply ethical decision-making related to research and laboratory practices
- Utilize proven methods for communicating test results accurately and professionally
- Collect and store data in accordance with laboratory best practices
Career Outlook
Build your career in a variety of settings including diagnostic microbiology labs, public health laboratories, research institutions, law enforcement agencies, molecular sections of hospital laboratories, reference laboratories, biotechnology firms, and pharmaceutical companies.
Qualify to sit for both the Molecular Biology (MB) and Microbiology (M) Board of Certification examinations offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), moving you ahead of your competition. Medical technologists with molecular biology skills earn between $43,202 and $90,000 a year.1
With your MSHS in Clinical Microbiology in hand, you can consider career titles such as:
- Clinical Laboratory Supervisor: $69,539 median salary2
- Clinical Research Manager: $78,205 median salary3
- Microbiologist: $79,650 per year4
- Medical Scientist: $88,790 per year5
Meet the Program Director
GW’s experienced faculty provide you with the rich, practical knowledge and support needed for you to succeed in the 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 High School 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.
Sources:
- Glassdoor - Medical Technologist with Molecular Biology Skills Salary
- Salary.com - Laboratory Supervisor Medical/Clinical Salary
- Salary.com - Clinical Research Manager Salary
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Microbiologists
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Medical Scientists
Tuition Details
The Dual Degree: BSHS in Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology Sciences / MSHS in Clinical Microbiology program at GW tuition information can be found here.
Note: Tuition rates are subject to change and additional fees may vary by program.
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
Summer 2025 |
Fall 2025 |
Spring 2025 |
|
Application Deadline |
March 20, 2025 (Open) |
July 20, 2025 (Open) |
December 1, 2024 (Closed) |
Scholarship Application Deadline |
December 16, 2024 - April 15, 2025 (Not Open Yet) |
August 12, 2024 (Closed) |
December 16, 2024 (Open) |
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:
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 |
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 22nd 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
Summer 2025 |
Fall 2025 |
Spring 2025 |
|
Application Deadline |
March 20, 2025 (Open) |
July 20, 2025 (Open) |
December 1, 2024 (Closed) |
Scholarship Application Deadline |
December 16, 2024 - April 15, 2025 (Not Open Yet) |
August 12, 2024 (Closed) |
December 16, 2024 (Open) |
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:
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 |
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 22nd St.
Suite 220
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Alternatively, official electronic transcripts can be sent to: transcripts@hsprograms.gwu.edu