Genetics

The Bachelor of Science in Genetics at Case Western Reserve University offers a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to prepare students for careers in biomedical research, healthcare, biotechnology, and related fields. This program provides students with a deep understanding of the fundamental principles of genetics, including Mendelian inheritance, molecular genetics, genomics, and genetic engineering. Through a combination of lecture courses, laboratory experiences, and research opportunities, students develop critical thinking, technical skills, and scientific reasoning necessary to analyze and interpret genetic data. The curriculum emphasizes current issues in genetics, such as personalized medicine, gene therapy, CRISPR technology, and ethical considerations in genetic research. Students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research projects within state-of-the-art facilities, working alongside faculty who are leaders in their fields. The program also promotes interdisciplinary learning by integrating coursework in cell biology, biochemistry, microbiology, and bioinformatics, allowing students to gain a holistic understanding of biological systems. Graduates of the Genetics program are well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees in medicine, genetics, or related sciences, or to enter the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. The program aims to foster a diverse and inclusive learning environment, encouraging students to explore innovative solutions to complex biological problems. With access to extensive research resources and a strong network of academic and industry partners, students are prepared to contribute significantly to the rapidly evolving field of genetics and biological sciences. Whether interested in research, healthcare, or biotechnology, students graduating from this program are poised to make meaningful impacts in science and society.

The First Year

Course work, rotations in at least three laboratories, and participation in seminars, journal clubs, and research meetings are the major activities of first year students. During the Fall term, most students take core courses in Cell and Molecular Biology (CBIO 453 Cell Biology I/CBIO 455 Molecular Biology I) that are offered for Biomedical Sciences Training Program departments. Laboratory rotations begin in early July and the choice of a thesis advisor is usually made at the end of December (see below for more details on Choosing an Advisor).

During the Spring term, PhD students take the core Advanced Eukaryotic Genetics course sequence (GENE 500 Advanced Eukaryotic Genetics I/GENE 504 Advanced Eukaryotic Genetics II), which is followed by a written comprehensive examination in late May or early June. This core course is designed to acquaint students with fundamental principles and methodologies used in modern genetic research. The focus is on similarities and differences between different model organisms used in genetics research. Also during the Spring term and continuing into the Summer, students begin formulating a doctoral research proposal.

The Second Year and Beyond

During the second year, students participate in a Proposal Writing Workshop (GENE 511 Grant Writing and Reviewing Skills Workshop) and take other advanced elective courses based on the academic background and interest of the student. The remaining elective credits can be satisfied by choosing from the courses offered by departmental faculty or participating training faculty from other departments (see List of Courses below). At the end of the second academic year, students must pass an oral proposal defense in order to advance to candidacy for the PhD degree. An outline of the typical course of study is shown below.

PhD Genetics, Plan of Study Sample 

Please also see Graduate Studies Academic Requirements for Doctoral Degrees.

Other Requirements

• Students meet twice per year with Thesis Committee
• Students meet once per year with Genetics Graduate Education Committee
• Genetics Student Seminar (weekly attendance, yearly presentation)
• Genetics Journal Club (weekly attendance, yearly presentation in spring semester)
• Genetics Retreat (yearly participation, organized by students)
• Two first-author, peer-reviewed publications

Requirements

• Applicants must have a good academic record, e.g., a B-average or rank in the upper third of his or her graduating class at an institution whose status and programs are readily assessed.
• Applicants must meet all of the undergraduate prerequisites for the proposed field of graduate study.
• Statement of Objectives — Some programs have this built into the application. If not, create your own using "Statement of Objectives" as the heading. The statement should be one to two pages and include your purpose in undertaking graduate work as well as an explanation of your study and research interests as they relate to your undergraduate/graduate study and professional goals.
• Academic Transcripts – You are required to identify all post-secondary educational institutions you have attended on your application form, and to submit an official transcript from each. Admission to the School of Graduate Studies is conditional on final certification of degrees awarded. Note to International Students: Documents in languages other than English must be accompanied by certified translations in English.
• Letters of Recommendation - Three letters of recommendation must be submitted from those individuals sufficiently familiar with you, and who can assess your academic preparation, abilities and accomplishments. Letters should be from your most recent instructors in your proposed field of study. If you have been out of school for several years, one letter may be from your employer, supervisor or other person familiar with your most recent activities.
• Test Scores – Your department will identify required standardized tests. When you fill out forms for these use 1105 as the institutional code for Case Western Reserve University. The School of Graduate Studies will forward all official score reports of standardized tests (GRE, TOEFL, etc.) to the program of interest. The department will inform you which standardized tests are required for your program. International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and earn a minimum score of 577 if paper-based, or 90 if Internet-based. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is also accepted. The minimum acceptable score is 7.0. Some departments may require higher scores. International applicants cannot be admitted without receipt of an acceptable official TOEFL score. The TOEFL is valid for two years after the test date. The GRE is valid for five years after the test date.
• Application Fee - A nonrefundable application fee of $50 is required for each application submitted.

The financing of the Genetics program at Case Western Reserve University is structured to accommodate a diverse range of students through various funding options. Tuition fees for the program are established annually and vary depending on whether students are enrolled as in-state or out-of-state residents. Typically, in-state students benefit from reduced tuition rates, making the program more accessible to local residents, while out-of-state students pay higher tuition fees. Financial aid opportunities include scholarships, grants, and assistantships that are available to both domestic and international students. The university offers merit-based scholarships specifically for students demonstrating academic excellence in the field of genetics and related disciplines. Additionally, need-based grants are accessible to students who demonstrate financial need, supporting them in covering tuition and associated costs. Many students secure assistantships, such as teaching or research assistantships, which provide stipends and remission of tuition fees in exchange for work related to the program. These assistantships not only help offset educational costs but also offer valuable practical experience in genetics research and teaching. The university’s financial aid office provides comprehensive support and counseling to help students navigate available funding options, complete financial aid applications, and identify external scholarships and fellowships from government agencies, private foundations, and professional organizations. International students are encouraged to explore specific scholarships and funding programs aimed at supporting their studies. The program also promotes opportunities for students to participate in funded research projects, which often include stipends and coverage of related expenses, thus reducing overall financial burdens. Overall, the Genetics program’s financing options are designed to make graduate education accessible and affordable while promoting academic excellence and research innovation.

The Bachelor of Arts in Genetics at Case Western Reserve University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of genetics and their applications in modern science. This program integrates coursework in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, and genetics to equip students with a solid foundation in biological sciences. Students will explore the mechanisms of heredity, gene expression, genetic variation, and human genetics, preparing them for careers in research, healthcare, or further education in graduate or professional schools. The program emphasizes laboratory skills and research experience, providing hands-on training through cutting-edge facilities and collaborations with research institutes. Students have opportunities to participate in research projects, internships, and seminars that connect academic theory with real-world applications. The curriculum is designed to foster analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a thorough understanding of ethical issues related to genetics and biotechnology. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for roles in medical genetics, biotechnology companies, academic research, or to pursue advanced degrees in genetics, medicine, or related fields. Case Western Reserve University also promotes interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to combine genetics with other areas such as bioinformatics, pharmacology, or health sciences. The program's strong emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills ensures students are competitive in the rapidly evolving field of genetics, contributing to advancements in medicine, agriculture, forensic science, and personalized therapies.