.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-SC-ALLIED-HEALTH-SCIENCES in Medical Genetics at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Medical Genetics at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This M.Sc. Medical Genetics program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on the molecular, cytogenetic, and clinical aspects of human genetics. It equips students with advanced knowledge and practical skills for diagnosing, counseling, and researching genetic disorders. The program addresses the growing demand for skilled genetic professionals in the Indian healthcare and research sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for life science graduates, medical laboratory technologists, and allied health professionals seeking to specialize in human genetics. It also suits medical graduates (MBBS/BDS) or biotech engineers aiming for research or clinical roles (with further training) in genetics. Candidates with a strong foundation in biology and a keen interest in disease mechanisms are well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including genetic counselors, clinical lab scientists, research associates in hospitals, diagnostic centers, and pharmaceutical R&D. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15 LPA. Opportunities exist in organizations like Strand Life Sciences, MedGenome, and major hospital groups.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Sciences- (Semester 1)
Dedicate significant effort to thoroughly understand core subjects like Human Anatomy & Physiology, Cytogenetics, and Cell & Molecular Biology. These form the bedrock for advanced genetic concepts. Utilize textbooks, online lectures, and university library resources.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., Robbins Basic Pathology, Molecular Biology of the Cell), Anatomy 3D apps, University library databases
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures accurate diagnosis and effective counseling in future roles, enhancing credibility with medical professionals.
Develop Core Laboratory Acumen- (Semester 1)
Actively participate in all practical sessions for subjects like Human Cytogenetics and Cell & Molecular Biology. Focus on mastering techniques such as karyotyping, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and basic microscopy. Document all experiments meticulously.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Virtual lab simulations (if available), Peer group practice
Career Connection
Proficiency in basic lab techniques is critical for entry-level positions in diagnostic labs and research, ensuring practical readiness.
Engage in Peer Learning & Problem Solving- (Semester 1)
Form study groups with classmates to discuss complex genetic problems, analyze case studies, and clarify concepts. Regularly solve problems from textbooks and previous year''''s question papers, especially in Principles of Genetics and Biostatistics.
Tools & Resources
Study groups, Online forums (e.g., BioTech forums), Problem sets from faculty
Career Connection
Collaborative problem-solving enhances critical thinking and communication, valuable skills for teamwork in professional settings.
Intermediate Stage
Immerse in Clinical Case Studies and Counseling Skills- (Semesters 2-3)
Proactively seek opportunities to observe genetic counseling sessions (if permissible), analyze anonymized patient case studies, and practice role-playing counseling scenarios. Focus on understanding the ethical and psychological aspects of genetic counseling.
Tools & Resources
Case study books, Genetic counseling textbooks, Role-playing exercises with peers
Career Connection
Develops empathy and communication skills essential for a genetic counselor role, preparing for real-world patient interactions.
Cultivate Advanced Research and Molecular Skills- (Semesters 2-3)
Actively participate in short-term research projects or workshops focusing on advanced molecular techniques like Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) data analysis, CRISPR-Cas9 applications, and advanced biochemical assays. Learn relevant bioinformatics tools.
Tools & Resources
Bioinformatics online courses (e.g., Coursera, NPTEL), R/Python for data analysis, Departmental research labs
Career Connection
These skills are highly sought after in research and R&D roles within biotech and diagnostic industries, leading to specialized positions.
Network with Professionals and Seek Internships- (Semesters 2-3)
Attend seminars, conferences, and guest lectures by prominent geneticists and industry experts. Actively network to explore potential internship opportunities in diagnostic labs, hospitals, or research institutes during semester breaks.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional conferences (e.g., Indian Society of Human Genetics), Faculty contacts
Career Connection
Building a professional network and gaining practical internship experience significantly improves placement prospects and career guidance.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation Research- (Semester 4)
Dedicate concentrated effort to the final year project (MMG21403), focusing on a novel research question. Ensure rigorous experimental design, meticulous data collection, robust analysis, and articulate thesis writing. Aim for high-quality research output.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, GraphPad Prism), Reference management tools (e.g., Mendeley), Research methodology guides
Career Connection
A strong project demonstrates independent research capability, crucial for roles in academia, R&D, and for pursuing further higher education like Ph.D.
Prepare for Professional Certification and Ethical Practice- (Semester 4)
Alongside academics, prepare for relevant national or international certifications for genetic counseling or laboratory roles, if applicable. Deepen understanding of ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks in medical genetics specific to India.
Tools & Resources
Certification body websites, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) guidelines, Professional ethics textbooks
Career Connection
Certifications and ethical awareness enhance professional credibility and employability in clinical and diagnostic settings.
Strategic Career Planning and Placement Readiness- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in campus placement drives, refine resume and interview skills tailored for genetic roles. Explore diverse career paths including clinical genetics, genetic counseling, diagnostics, and research, and prepare accordingly.
Tools & Resources
Career services department, Mock interviews, Online job portals (e.g., Naukri, LinkedIn Jobs)
Career Connection
Focused career planning and placement preparation lead to securing desirable positions in reputable organizations post-graduation, ensuring a smooth transition into the workforce.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A candidate who has passed B.Sc. in any branch of Life Sciences / B.Sc. in Allied Health Sciences / B.Sc. Medical Lab Technology / B.Pharm / MBBS / BDS / BPT / B.Tech (Biotechnology / Genetic Engineering) / B.V.Sc. / BHMS / BAMS from a recognized university with a minimum of 50% marks are eligible for admission.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 68 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMG21101 | Human Anatomy and Physiology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Human Body, Cell Biology and Tissues, Skeletal and Muscular Systems, Nervous and Endocrine Systems, Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems, Digestive and Urinary Systems |
| MMG21102 | Human Cytogenetics | Core | 4 | Chromosome Structure and Function, Cell Division: Mitosis and Meiosis, Karyotyping Techniques, Numerical Chromosome Abnormalities, Structural Chromosome Rearrangements, Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) |
| MMG21103 | Principles of Genetics | Core | 4 | Mendelian Inheritance, Extensions of Mendelian Genetics, Linkage and Crossing Over, Human Pedigree Analysis, Population Genetics, Mutations and Mutagenesis |
| MMG21104 | Cell and Molecular Biology | Core | 4 | Cell Structure and Organelles, DNA Replication and Repair, Gene Expression: Transcription, Gene Expression: Translation, Regulation of Gene Expression, Cell Cycle and Apoptosis |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMG21201 | Biochemical Genetics | Core | 4 | Metabolism of Biomolecules, Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Amino Acid Metabolism Disorders, Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism Disorders, Lysosomal Storage Diseases, Mitochondrial Disorders and Pharmacogenomics |
| MMG21202 | Human Molecular Genetics | Core | 4 | Human Genome Organization, DNA Sequencing Technologies, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) techniques, Gene Mapping and Linkage Analysis, Genetic Variation and Disease, Epigenetics and Gene Editing |
| MMG21203 | Immunogenetics | Core | 4 | Immune System Components, Innate and Adaptive Immunity, Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC), Immunoglobulin Genetics, Genetics of Autoimmune Diseases, Transplant and Cancer Immunogenetics |
| MMG21204 | Biostatistics and Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Biostatistics, Data Collection and Presentation, Measures of Central Tendency and Dispersion, Probability and Sampling, Hypothesis Testing and Significance, Research Design and Ethics |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMG21301 | Clinical Genetics and Genetic Counseling | Core | 4 | Principles of Clinical Genetics, Common Genetic Disorders, Prenatal and Pre-implantation Diagnosis, Newborn Screening, Genetic Counseling Process and Pedigree, Ethical, Legal and Social Issues in Genetics |
| MMG21302 | Cancer Genetics | Core | 4 | Hallmarks of Cancer, Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressor Genes, Genetic Basis of Cancer, Hereditary Cancer Syndromes, Molecular Diagnostics in Cancer, Cancer Therapy and Prevention |
| MMG21303 | Neurogenetics | Core | 4 | Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Genetic Neurological Diseases, Neurodegenerative Disorders, Epilepsy and Psychiatric Genetics, Mitochondrial Neuropathies, Gene Therapy for Neurological Conditions |
| MMG21304 | Genetic Engineering and Gene Therapy | Core | 4 | Recombinant DNA Technology, Cloning Vectors and Gene Transfer Methods, Gene Therapy Strategies, Viral and Non-Viral Gene Delivery, CRISPR-Cas9 Technology, Ethical Considerations in Gene Editing |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMG21401 | Genomics and Proteomics | Core | 4 | Whole Genome Sequencing, Transcriptomics Technologies, Proteomics Techniques, Mass Spectrometry in Proteomics, Bioinformatics Tools for Genomics, Personalized Medicine |
| MMG21402 | Medical Biotechnology and Regenerative Medicine | Core | 4 | Recombinant Proteins and Therapeutics, Vaccines and Diagnostics, Stem Cell Biology and Therapy, Tissue Engineering Principles, Gene-Modified Cells, Ethical and Regulatory Aspects |
| MMG21403 | Project Work | Project | 12 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review and Hypothesis, Experimental Design and Execution, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Scientific Writing and Thesis Preparation, Presentation and Viva Voce |
