Program Overview

Introduction to the Ph.D. Program in Healthcare Genetics and Genomics

The Ph.D. program in Healthcare Genetics and Genomics at Clemson University is an interdisciplinary program that brings together experts from various fields to prepare future leaders in translational bench science, clinical practice, health policy, and ethics in the field of healthcare genetics and genomics.

Program Information

Our program offers graduate students the opportunity to be mentored by faculty from multiple disciplines. Core courses focus on genetics and genomics (human, molecular, and healthcare), knowledge and theory, research, and ethics and policy. Students will take cognate courses in bioinformatics, statistics, education, public health sciences, and other areas to develop the tools necessary to develop a program of research. Core courses are offered in a live synchronous online format, and students may choose to locate in the Clemson area or remain at distance. A robust research laboratory is available for Clemson-based students. Students will be matched with faculty to conduct dissertation research. Each spring, students are required to attend the Translational Research Day at CU Nursing Greenville. Graduating students will briefly present their projects to students, faculty, and staff.

Program Goals

With its highly collaborative research and translational focus, this program prepares scientists across disciplines to:

• Plan and conduct research focusing on genomic aspects of health.
• Develop and integrate new knowledge to inform precision healthcare and health professional education.
• Demonstrate leadership skills in interdisciplinary research, ethical conduct, and the development and implementation of policy in healthcare genetics and genomics.

Eligibility and Application Criteria

• Individuals with an interest in healthcare genetics-genomics, including nurses and others in health-related fields, people from laboratory and pharmaceutical science, and others.
• Preference is given to people who have a master's degree in a related field.
• For the Fall entering cohort, we anticipate having in-person assistantship-supported grad students. Priority will be given to those wanting to work on zebrafish models, cancer, cell culture, and rare genetic disorders.
• Application criteria include:
  • At least a bachelor's degree in a related health science discipline from an accredited institution.
  • A cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher (all college credits).
  • Official transcripts from all previous college credits.
  • Three letters of recommendation.
  • Professional resume or curriculum vita (CV).
  • Personal statement and career goals.
  • Writing sample (or master's thesis or publication).
  • TOEFL score may be required by applicants for whom English is not their first language.

Faculty and Research

The School of Nursing Research Faculty have diverse and exciting programs of research and expertise crossing many content areas and study methodologies. Three faculty have primary appointments in the Healthcare Genetics and Genomics program, and all faculty are involved with doctoral students as either committee chairs or committee members.

Facilities and Resources

Students in the Healthcare Genetics and Genomics program have access to excellent research facilities, including:

• The School of Nursing Healthcare Genetics and Genomics Laboratory, which offers a state-of-the-art laboratory for students wanting to conduct laboratory-based research.
• The Clemson Aquatic Animal Research Laboratory, a state-of-the-art research facility with a particular focus on zebrafish.
• The Center for Research on Health Disparities, which advocates for the development, advancement, and dissemination of research on population health and health disparities.
• The Clemson University Center for Human Genetics, which focuses on genomic, computational, and comparative genetic approaches to gain insights into genetic and environmental risk factors for human diseases.
• The Palmetto, Clemson University's primary high-performance computing resource, available to Healthcare Genetics and Genomics students and faculty.
• Clemson Rural Health, which provides clinical sites for activities for students interested in clinical research.
• The Rutland Institute for Ethics, which provides a forum for exploration and discussion of ethical issues.
• The Clemson University Division of Research Core Facilities, which includes state-of-the-art equipment, competitive rates, and support from highly trained staff and directors.
• The Clemson University Genomics and Bioinformatics Facility, which helps investigators use the latest genomics technologies in their research.
• GRAD 360, a hub of professional development for graduate students and postdocs.

Reciprocity and State Authorization

South Carolina is a member of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA), and Clemson University is an approved SARA institution. This means we adhere to established standards for offering post-secondary e-learning programs. State authorization allows CU to offer online programs to students outside of SC or enroll students in learning placements/courses that take place outside of SC.

Publications and Presentations

The program has a strong record of publications and presentations by students and faculty, demonstrating the program's commitment to research and academic excellence.

Partnerships

Clemson University offers a unique college structure that lends itself to collaborative work. The Healthcare Genetics program has strong relationships with a variety of collaborators and Clemson University research partnerships, including the Greenwood Genetic Center, Prisma Health Greenville Memorial, and the Medical University of South Carolina.

Conclusion

The Ph.D. program in Healthcare Genetics and Genomics at Clemson University is a highly interdisciplinary program that prepares students for careers in research, education, and policy in the field of healthcare genetics and genomics. With its strong faculty, excellent research facilities, and commitment to academic excellence, this program is an ideal choice for students interested in pursuing a career in this field.