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MSHS in Translational Microbiology

Advance Your Career in the Lab

The George Washington University’s (GW) Master of Science in Health Sciences (MSHS) in Translational Microbiology is a non-clinical program that equips students to interpret and design translational microbiological research and discover solutions to infectious disease-related health issues. The program provides the foundation of laboratory research best practices and strategic leadership models to prepare you to advance your career in a variety of laboratory settings.

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Quick Facts

36

total credits

100% Online

2 years

average duration

Accreditation and Rankings

  • Fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
  • #66 Best National University*
  • #19 Best Online Bachelor’s Programs*

* U.S. News & World Report‘s 2021 Best Colleges Rankings

Program Highlights

  • 100% online coursework, no visits to campus required
  • Complete your degree in 24 months
  • This program is ideal for students who already have Microbiology or MLS certification and who are interested in rising to management or supervisory positions in diverse microbiology laboratory settings

Curriculum

The MSHS in Translational Microbiology consists of 36 credit hours, including 18 hours of MLS coursework to develop a foundational understanding of microbiological sciences and to apply this knowledge through a mentored research project, 12 credit hours of quantitative data analysis, 3 credits of strategic leadership concepts, and 3 credit hours in ethical implications and research. For the administrative and leadership component of the program, choose one of the following for 3 credits:

  • HSCI 6241 The Health Care Enterprise (3)
  • HSCI 6223 Topics in Health Care Leadership (3)
  • HSCI 6240 Issues and Trends in Health Systems (3)
View Courses

Program Outcomes

The online MSHS in Translational Microbiology program leverages distinguished faculty, innovative curriculum, and real-world experience. You’ll gain the comprehensive skills you need to succeed in clinical research, so when you graduate, you’ll be able to:

  • Synthesize data from the published literature to make feasible conclusions related to the laboratory diagnosis of human infectious diseases.
  • Design a research project in a current area of translational microbiology and infectious disease research.
  • Apply leadership skills to effectively manage and lead a microbiology laboratory.
  • Effectively communicate scientific concepts and literature in professional settings to advance knowledge of the discipline.
  • Integrate basic ethical principles and cultural sensitivity in the professional and research setting to maintain an inclusive laboratory practice.

Who Is the Ideal Student for This Program?

GWs online MSHS in Translational Microbiology is designed for current laboratory professionals with medical laboratory scientist or microbiology certifications or for individuals who want a graduate degree focusing in microbiology who are not interested in certification.

Career Outlook

Jobs in microbiology are steadily increasing through 2028, with a projected growth rate of 5% that’s on pace with the national average.1

Prepare to conduct research and disseminate results to help prevent the spread of infectious diseases. You’ll complete this program ready to practice in diverse settings, including microbiology or biotechnology research institutions, public health laboratories, or government agencies, in titles such as:

  • Biotechnology or Government Research Associate
  • Microbiology Laboratory Supervisor/Manager
  • Medical Laboratory Technician/Medical Laboratory Scientist teaching position
  • Microbiology Laboratory Scientist

In 2018, the median annual salary for microbiologists was $71,650, with those employed by the federal government earning $106,440.1 The top 10% of microbiologists earned as much as $133,350 in 2018.1

Admission Requirements

To apply for the MSHS in Translational Microbiology, you’ll need:

  • Completed application
  • 3.0 GPA or above on a 4.0 scale
  • A bachelor’s degree: in a basic science or health-related science (e.g. medical laboratory science, biology, chemistry, microbiology) from a regionally accredited institution
  • 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.
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Tuition Details

The MSHS in Translational Microbiology program at GW consists of 36 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. Please call us at (844) 386-7323 for more information.

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Meet the Program Director

Rohini Ganjoo, PhD

Dr. Ganjoo is the current Medical Laboratory Sciences (MLS) program director and has over 10 years of experience in teaching and research. In addition to her program director duties, Dr. Ganjoo teaches several graduate courses within the MLS program, such as Molecular Biology, Genetics, Medical Biotechnology, Research Ethics and Integrity, and Microbial Pathogenesis.

Prior to her arrival at George Washington University (GW), Dr. Ganjoo was an assistant professor at the Biotechnology Department of Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC). At NVCC she taught various undergraduate courses such as Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, and Microbiology and was the recipient of several educational foundation grants. Dr. Ganjoo completed her doctorate from the University of North Texas Health Science Center in 2008 where she worked on drug resistance and protein signaling in lung cancer cells. Dr. Ganjoo has also published her research in peer-reviewed journals.

Besides her expertise in teaching and life sciences, Dr. Ganjoo was the operations director of Ziby Creations and responsible for business development, support, and operational efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

As you explore an online program at the George Washington University, our dedicated staff is here to support you. If you have a question we don’t cover here, request more information or call 844-386-7323.

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Sources:

  1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2019 September 4). Microbiologists. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved January 16, 2020, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/microbiologists.htm.