Program Overview

Program Overview

The Master's program in Cytogenetics and Cytogenomics in Clinical Practice and Fetal Medicine is a second-level master's degree offered by the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery at the University of Rome "Tor Vergata", in conjunction with the Bambino Gesů Pediatric Hospital. The program is taught in Italian and is conducted in a face-to-face learning environment.

Program Details

• Duration: 1 year
• Credits: 60
• Coordinator: Giuseppe Rizzo
• Course Code: PUC
• Start Date: April 29

Institution

The program is established at the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery of the University of Rome "Tor Vergata" in agreement with the Bambino Gesů Pediatric Hospital. The master's program aims to train experts in cytogenetics with specific skills in classical and molecular cytogenetics, for both diagnostic and research purposes.

Objectives

The program intends to be the first course in Italy to form experts in cytogenetics with specific competencies in the field of classical and molecular cytogenetics, with both diagnostic (prenatal and postnatal genetic diagnosis and oncological diagnosis) and research objectives. The professional figure that the Master aims to train is currently in high demand in the sector due to significant technological developments in recent years and the need for experts in fetal medicine who can use the available tools and protocols to identify the correct path for pregnant women.

Curriculum

The program will cover practical applications of conventional and molecular cytogenetic techniques (FISH - Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization, aCGH - Comparative Genomic Hybridization, and SNP arrays that use single nucleotide polymorphisms), the use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms, and non-invasive prenatal diagnosis (NIPT). The clinical significance of genetic/genomic tests, different reporting modalities, and indications to be provided to the patient will be specified. Non-invasive prenatal screening tests will also be addressed, divided into biochemical-clinical tests (which identify a risk based on biochemical screening in the first and/or second trimester) and ultrasound tests (based on nuchal translucency, nasal bone visualization, and various markers). Particular attention will be paid to technical-practical training: the theoretical skills acquired will be verified through internships and laboratory activities using cutting-edge technologies.

Admission Requirements

The study program is intended for the training of graduates with a specialist degree, master's degree, or at least a four-year degree from the old system in:

• Medicine and Surgery
• Dentistry
• Biology
• Medical Biotechnology Enrollment of non-EU students residing in Italy with a regular residence permit for work or study purposes is allowed. The enrollment of non-EU foreign students residing abroad is regulated by current laws. The foreign degree must be accompanied by an official translation legalized in Italian and a declaration of value by the Italian diplomatic representations in the country where the degree was obtained, or a CIMEA certificate. The access title must be possessed at the time of enrollment, before the start of the training activities.

Final Notes

The program is designed to provide comprehensive training in cytogenetics and cytogenomics, preparing students for careers in clinical practice, research, and fetal medicine. With its strong focus on practical applications and cutting-edge technologies, this master's program is an excellent opportunity for those looking to specialize in this field.