Diagnostic Genetic Sciences

diagnostic genetic sciences

WHAT IS DIAGNOSTIC GENETIC SCIENCES (DGS)?

This major is part of the Health and Medicine Exploration Group

DGS Major Website

The Diagnostic Genetic Sciences (DGS) major leads to a Bachelor of Science degree. Diagnostic genetic scientists are professionals who provide critical testing that influences patient care at all levels including diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. They evaluate and investigate DNA and RNA using cutting-edge technologies. Diagnostic Genetic scientists work in clinical and research settings and are valued members of the medical team.

Declaration, Major Requirements, and Courses

HOW TO DECLARE:

APPLICATION REQUIRED.  Admission is very competitive and requires a strong GPA along with the completion of specific courses. Find more information and the application here.

---

MAJOR REQUIREMENTS:

Major Requirements Overview

---

HELPFUL INTRO COURSES:

Click here for full course description

BIOL 1107 - Principles of Biology (Major Requirement)

MCB 2400 - Human Genetics (Major Requirement)

Possible Career Opportunities

COMMON CAREER PATHS:

UConn students who major in Diagnostic Genetic Sciences (DGS) often pursue careers with a focus on testing that influences patient care in clinical and research settings. Common examples include but are not limited to careers in: 

- Bioinformatics
- Cell biology
- Cytogenetics
- Genetic counseling
- Genetics
- Genomics
- Laboratory sciences
- Molecular diagnostics
- Molecular pathology
- Research 

COMMON AREAS OF GRADUATE STUDY:

DGS majors who go on to pursue graduate studies pursue a wide variety of master’s, and/or doctoral degrees based on their interests. Common examples include but are not limited to degrees in: 

- Bioinformatics
- Genetic counseling
- Genetics and genomics
- Law
- Medicine
- Molecular and cell biology
- Pharmacy 

ADDITIONAL CAREER RESOURCES:

For additional examples of careers and graduate studies that UConn alumni have pursued, visit the UConn alumni search on LinkedIn. 

For further insight beyond the journeys of UConn alumni, visit the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics.