What if we could revolutionize the future of medicine using genomic data? The Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genomic Data Analytics (MSGDA) program at Keck Graduate Institute (KGI) in Claremont, CA, prepares students for the exciting field of genomic data analytics through a unique combination of foundational coursework in human genetics, cutting-edge courses in the applied life sciences, and an innovative human genomics curriculum. This unique master’s in genomics gives students an opportunity to work side-by-side with future genetic counselors and applied life scientists while gaining hands-on experience with the technologies and information revolutionizing medicine’s future.

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Program Quick Facts

Fact
Details
Program length
It takes four semesters (two years) to complete the MSGDA program.
Full or part-time program
The master’s in genomics is a full-time program with classes during the day.
Online or in-person classes
All classes are done in-person.
Program concentrations
There are three MSGDA concentrations depending on student interest.
Summer internship
Students will complete a summer internship between years 1 and 2.
Capstone requirements
The second year concludes with a capstone industry-sponsored project or research thesis

MSGDA Program Details

  • In KGI’s first-of-its-kind program, you will gain real industry experience with a hands-on project at a genomics company or clinical lab. Within our School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, you will work side-by-side with future genetic counselors and applied life scientists. You will be able to translate patient sequencing data into clinical recommendations and bridge the gap between research scientists and clinical practitioners through KGI’s master’s in genomics. Learn more about what to expect.

  • Students in the MSGDA program are required to take a minimum of 65.5 credits over the course of two years of study. The coursework is comprised of required courses, elective courses, and a capstone project. Students are required to declare a concentration by May 1 and will begin taking electives in their 2nd year. Students will also complete a summer internship between years 1 and 2. Learn more.

  • There are three MSGDA concentrations depending on student interest:

    1. Clinical decision support
    2. Clinical trial design
    3. Assay development

    All three concentrations prepare students for a variety of roles in not just the genomics industry, but also academia, pharmacogenomics, and more. Learn more.

  • Where Can Your MSGDA Degree Take You?

    Here are the top occupations for KGI graduates from the MSGDA program:

    • Variant curator / Clinical variant scientist
    • Clinical genomics scientist
    • Genomic data scientist
    • Research scientist
  • Recent college graduates or those currently employed who are interested in:

    • Personalized or precision medicine
    • Drug development using genetics and genomics
    • Development of new genetic or genomic tests
    • Development of direct-to-consumer genomic tests or products
    • Using big data to advance health
    • Making a career change to advance

KGI Alumna Anna Capria Participates in the Rally for Medical Research, Advocating for Robust NIH Funding

Anna Capria, an alumna of Keck Graduate Institute (KGI) ‘s Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genomic Data Analytics (MSGDA) program, recently participated in the Rally for Medical Research in Washington, […]

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MSGDA Program Celebrates Mutually Beneficial Partnership With Genomic Health IT Startup Genomenon

Since the inception of Keck Graduate Institute (KGI) ‘s Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genomic Data Analytics (MSGDA) program, Program Director Dr. Barbara Fortini has developed a mutually beneficial partnership with the […]

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MSGDA Student Anna Capria Selected as a 2023 Advocacy Certificate for Human Genetics and Genomics Trainee

Anna Capria, a student in Keck Graduate Institute (KGI)’s Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genomic Data Analytics (MSGDA) program, was recently selected as a 2023 Advocacy Certificate for Human Genetics and […]

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#153—Dr. Barbara Fortini Discusses KGI’s One-of-a-Kind Genomic Data Analytics Program

In this episode of the KGI podcast, we sat down with Dr. Barbara Fortini, associate professor of genetics and the program director of the one-of-a-kind Master of Science in Human […]

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Program Leadership

Barbara Kraatz Fortini, PhD

Associate Professor of Genetics; Program Director, MS Human Genetics and Genomic Data Analytics; Director of the Center for Training in Applied Genomics
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Barbara Bailus, PhD

Assistant Professor of Genetics
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Katia Dergham, MS, CGC

Assistant Director of Experiential Education, Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling (MSGC) and Professor of Practice
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Day in the Life of an MSGDA Student

"My decision to come to KGI was heavily influenced by the close-knit, supportive community that is clearly present among the staff and students. In pursuing genetics and genomic data analytics, I seek a career in an exciting field where discoveries are constantly being made and where I hope to be a part of the clinical workspace and on a broader level, positively impact human health. "
Rhea Kerawala
KGI Student
MS in Human Genetics and Genomic Data Analytics, '22

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