Program of Study

The educational goals of the Human Genome Sciences (HGS) Track are threefold:

to provide students with

1. comprehensive training in human genetics, functional genomics, and computational biology,
2. strong quantitative and analytical skills for interpreting genomic data, and
3. the capacity to bridge fundamental genome science and translational applications.

To achieve these goals, students complete a training program that combines essential coursework in these three domains with a series of mentored research rotations. This will prepare first-year students for their PhD thesis work. The purpose of the rotations is to immerse students in the research underway within the HGS track, help them identify their specific research interests, and find the laboratory that they will ultimately join.

All first-year students must complete three courses that form the backbone of the program. Students with strong prior experience in any of these areas may be permitted to take different courses after demonstrating competency. Additionally, all students take a course in the Responsible Conduct of Research, with special emphasis on the ethical implications of genetics/genomics research and data privacy. Core courses include:

• Foundational Concepts in Human Genetics
• Genomics Technologies and Analysis Methods
• Quantitative & Statistical Genomics

Students must also complete three elective courses, which includes specialized topics such as Bayesian modeling for genomics, deep learning applications, clinical genetics, and advanced evolutionary genomics. Electives may also come from broader BBS course offerings, allowing students to pursue individual interests in areas such as cancer biology, immunobiology, or neurogenomics. Students typically complete all coursework within the first three semesters of graduate study.