Master of Science in Medical and Molecular Genetics

A Master of Science in Medical and Molecular Genetics prepares students for a career in laboratory research or education. This program offers an independent degree and is not required as a prerequisite for the Medical and Molecular Genetics doctoral degree.

Prerequisites

Candidates planning to apply for the MS program must have a bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA. Common undergraduate degrees include biology, biochemistry and life sciences. Courses in genetics, biochemistry and biology are recommended. The GRE general and subject exams are not required. An English proficiency exam is required for international students (please see the IU Indianapolis Office of International Affairs website for more information).

Pursue a MS in Genetics

Begin work on a master’s degree in Medical and Molecular Genetics to prepare for a career in laboratory research or education. All applications are due by January 15.

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Program Requirements and Curriculum

Students in the Medical and Molecular Genetics MS degree program that are not in the genetic counseling program a required to complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of approved courses, including no more than seven credit hours of research. Graduate level courses consist of those from Medical Genetics (MGEN) or approved equivalents, with grades of B or better, including the following five courses: Basic Human Genetics (MGEN-Q580, 3 credits), Clinical Genetics (MGEN-Q625, 1 credit), Molecular and Biochemical Genetics (MGEN-Q612, 3 credits), Human Cytogenetics (MGEN-Q620, 2 credits) and Population Genetics (MGEN-Q630, 1 credit). Students who have not had an undergraduate biochemistry course are encouraged to take BIOC-B500 Introductory Biochemistry before taking MGEN-Q612 Molecular and Biochemical Genetics. Up to eight credit hours of non-research, graduate level courses with grades of B or better may be requested to be transferred for the MGEN plan of study with the approval of the Graduate Advisor and the IU Indianapolis Graduate School.

A student may choose to complete a thesis for their Master of Science in Medical and Molecular Genetics degree requirements. In addition to completing the course requirements, students can either: 1) prepare and defend a master’s thesis, or 2) with the approval of the department, a first authorship in a refereed publication may substitute for a formal thesis. Helpful degree progression information.

Each student selects an advisor and an advisory committee to guide and supervise the student. The committee typically consists of at least three faculty members in the Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics.

Application Process

In addition to completing the electronic application, supplemental information (GRE/TOEFL scores, transcript(s) and letters of recommendation [if the referee prefers not to complete an online recommendation]) should be mailed separately to:

Education Program Manager
Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics
Indiana University School of Medicine
975 W. Walnut Street, IB-130
Indianapolis, IN 46202-5251

If unable to apply online, applicants can email the Education Program Manager.

Particularly strong applicants have explored the profession of Medical and Molecular Genetics through extracurricular experiences — such as working part-time in a research lab or taking research oriented courses. Decisions for admission are based on review of application materials and the outcome of interviews, extended to a portion of candidates. Offers for acceptance are given during the spring.

Financial Aid and Support

The Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics does not offer financial support for students in the master’s program. However, students may be eligible for financial aid and should contact the IU Indianapolis Office of Financial Services for more information.