Overview

The mission of the Diagnostic Genetic Sciences Program is to prepare graduates for careers as integral members of laboratory teams by providing them with didactic and clinical experiences leading to the acquisition of knowledge and technical skills suitable for attaining minimum competency as genetics laboratorians, as defined by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), and for the pursuit of research that will result in advancement of the body of knowledge in the genetic sciences.

DGS Grads are eligible for employment as cytogenetic technologists and molecular technologists, both rated as “Bright Outlook” professions by US Dept of Labor. Genetic Technologists are the men and women on the front line of clinical testing, responsible for providing efficient and accurate results for patients and consumers. In CT, technologists work in diagnostic laboratories at Hartford Hospital or UConn Health or at diagnostic companies such as Genesys, AmeriPath Northeast or LabCorp Dianon. Genetic technologists are also needed in research laboratories at Jackson Laboratories, Yale University School of Medicine, Pfizer, and Mt. Sinai Genetic Testing Laboratory. There is room for advancement to supervisory and management positions with Master's degrees and/or years of experience. Most clinical laboratories require ASCP certification or certification eligibility for initial employment.