Both laboratory specialties use genetic testing to aid in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease.
Students work with methods that isolate DNA and chromosomes depending on the specialty.
Students are exposed to a broad range of sophisticated instruments, procedures and disease procedures. Emphasis is placed on ingenuity, exact technique and careful attention to process, and using cutting edge technology. These tracks require the same course work at NMU, but differ in the Senior Practicum. Students can choose a six month practicum in the field of Cytogenetics or a six month practicum in the field of Molecular Biology to satisfy the requirements for the major in Diagnostic Genetics. It is a 40 hour a week obligation under the direct supervision of the Mayo Clinic Laboratory Personnel and is taken by students as their last semester of course work.