MDGEN - Medical Genetics

A directed reading and seminar course based on papers taken from the recent literature of medical genetics. The course consists of lectures on a specific topic in medical genetics and oral presentations of the current literature by students. Selected topics vary so that students may take the same course but examining a different topic for additional credit. Prerequisite: consent of the Department of Medical Genetics. Credit may only be obtained in one of MDGEN 401 or MDGEN 601.

The rapid expansion of our understanding of the human genome has created new, exciting possibilities to understanding the root causes of human disease and improve health. However, this also leads to real and potential problems - both ethical and practical. This senior level undergraduate course will consist of four modules each covering different aspects of the scientific theory underlying the practice of Medical Genetics. Topics will include core concepts in human genomics, developmental genetics, genetic variation, Mendelian and non- Mendelian traits, Mendelian disease as examples of key genomic concepts, methodologies that allow for screening of genetic disease and the theory supporting the practice of genetic counselling. This course will be based on didactic understanding of the topics and draw upon examples from the expertise of the instructors. Prerequisites CELL 201 or BIOL 201, 300 level course in CELL or GENET or consent of the Department. Note: Not to be taken by students with credit in CELL 403. In addition, not available to students currently enrolled in CELL 403.

An interactive course designed to provide undergraduate students insight into the role of a genetic counsellor through exploration of key topics. The class meets once a week for a 2-to-3-hour discussion. Each week students will be presented a typical genetic counselling case, which they will then write up and present to the entire class the following week. All students will then participate in the discussion of the case. Midterm(s) and/or finals consist of a 60 min presentation on a choice of various ethical issues currently impacting the field. The course is graded based on presentations, written assignments and participation. Open to undergraduate students with permission of the course instructor. Credit may only be obtained in one of MDGEN 407 or MDGEN 507.

An interactive course designed to provide graduate students insight into the role of a genetic counsellor through exploration of key topics. The class meets once a week for a 2-to-3-hour discussion. Each week students will be presented a typical genetic counselling case, which they will then write up and present to the entire class the following week. All students will then participate in the discussion of the case. Midterm and/or finals consist of a 60 min presentation on a choice of various ethical issues currently impacting the field. The course is graded based on presentations, written assignments and participation. Open to up to 4 students with permission of the course instructor. Credit may only be obtained in one of MDGEN 407 or MDGEN 507.

A directed reading and seminar course based on papers taken from the recent literature of medical genetics. The course consists of lectures on a specific topic in medical genetics and oral presentations of the current literature by students. Selected topics vary so that students may take the same course but examining a different topic for additional credit. Prerequisite: consent of the Department of Medical Genetics.

This course is designed as a journal club and discussion group in which topics in medical genetics are discussed. Students will critically discuss papers and give oral presentations to the class. Specific topics will include research in genomics, disease gene cloning, chromosome structure, and clinical aspects of medical genetics. Prerequisite: consent of the Department of Medical Genetics.

Reading and study of a specific topic related to the student's MSc or PhD Program in the Department of Medical Genetics under the direction of one or more faculty members. Prerequisite: consent of Department.

To provide students currently training in a Genetic Counselling graduate program with insight and direct experience into the role of a genetic counsellor through research into key topics in the area, as well as observation and participation in genetic counselling sessions. The course involves scheduled meetings with the instructor, and observing and participating in counselling sessions. Cases will be randomly selected for formal write-up and presentation. Students will also learn to critique a suitable medical genetics journal. Course is graded based on presentations, written assignment and counselling performance. Open to students in a graduate program for genetic counselling, with permission of the course instructor.