Genetics technology involves performing laboratory tests to help physicians diagnose, treat and monitor a wide variety of genetic disorders and many types of cancer. Genetics Technologists use a range of techniques, instrumentation and analytical software – from microscopes to the latest genomic analyzers. Specifically, genetic testing involves the study of chromosomes (Cytogenetics) as well as the analysis of DNA and RNA (Molecular Genetics).

The field of genetics technology is rapidly evolving and expanding as new discoveries, technologies and techniques become integrated into the clinical environment. Technologists work both independently and as a part of a health care team to produce high quality, accurate patient results. Although there is limited patient contact, the results generated have a direct impact on patient treatment and care.

Genetics Technologists work in a variety of settings including hospitals, private and research laboratories and academic facilities.

Michener’s Genetics Technology program provides educational experiences in both cytogenetic and molecular genetic techniques. Cytogenetics encompasses the microscopic analysis of human chromosomes; molecular genetics involves the analysis of DNA and RNA.

Throughout the program you will learn how to perform analyses to diagnose and treat patients with genetic diseases, as well as monitor and prevent disease, how to use laboratory techniques and instrumentation to explore genetics of human cell.

For detailed course descriptions please see the Genetics Curriculum page.

Length: 18 weeks
Start: September
End: January

You will be assigned to a clinical placement site(s) through Michener’s Office for Clinical Education. This process begins with an information session in the second semester of your program.

As clinical education is a major component of all Michener programs, our affiliated clinical sites are integral to your education and they include teaching hospitals across Canada. Working closely under the supervision of Genetics Technologists, you will have the opportunity to integrate knowledge and skills into practice during the clinical phase of your program. Clinical placements give you hands-on experience in work environments and the opportunity to network with potential employers.

You may be placed in more than one clinical site during your clinical placement period, based on the required clinical competencies for your program and the range of services at the clinical sites.

For more information about Clinical Education, please see Michener’s Clinical Education Model page.

Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science
College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario