The Faculty members have multi-disciplinary research expertise. Strengths of the faculty are in the areas of cancer genetics, genetic epidemiology, gene mapping, medical genetics, birth defects, population genetics, complex diseases, animal models and development, and bioinformatics. Faculty members from all three Divisions of the Faculty of Medicine (BioMedical Sciences, Community Health and Clinical Sciences) participate in the program. This multi-disciplinary integrated approach to teaching and research training is designed to provide trainees with an understanding of human genetics which includes both theory and practical applications of human disease. The close association of basic and clinical researchers provide an ideal setting in which to obtain an integrated understanding of human genetics.

The Faculty of Medicine supports a visiting speaker program, teaching assistant (TA) opportunities, internal awards and scholarships, administrative staff support and the Office of Research & Graduate Studies dedicated to medicine graduate student matters. The Health Sciences Library is located in the Health Sciences Centre, adjacent to the Faculty of Medicine.

Description of programs

The program offers exciting learning and research opportunities. Graduate training is enriched by in-class courses, Genetics Seminar Series, and research projects (degree requirement). In addition, Graduate Student Research Forum, visiting speaker program, and experiential learning opportunities enhance the graduate learning and training. Students will be expected to participate in the activities of the Genetics group. These include a weekly Journal Club/Genetics Seminar Series. The Journal Club/Genetics Seminar Series is held regularly and provides an opportunity for the presentation and discussion of recent research results, published articles or issues of general interest to the members of the group. Graduate students, faculty members and genetic counsellors act as regular presenters in this activity. All PhD students are expected to present each term during their program. Graduate students will also be expected to attend all seminars presented by invited visitors of the Human Genetics Group.

Both MSc and PhD degree programs are thesis-based programs. In order to obtain an MSc or PhD degree, students will be required to have completed an advanced undergraduate course in genetics, Genetics Seminar Series, a minimum of two graduate level courses (for MSc), and a thesis based on original research. PhD students may be recommended to take graduate level courses if needed. Students admitted to or transferring to the PhD program will be required to pass a comprehensive examination in accordance with the regulations governing the School of Graduate Studies.

Normally, the duration of MSc and PhD programs are 2 and 4 years, respectively.

This program is home to The Human Genetics Student Society (HGSS). HGSS is a student-run society that aims to support the students and enhance their experiences. HGSS is also quite active in community activities, which provide excellent experiential learning opportunities for students.

Minimum admission requirements

• MSc (Med) – Bachelor’s degree (minimum second class) in an appropriate area of study
  
• PhD – Master’s degree in an appropriate area of study