Manchester University offers nation’s only pharmacogenomics master’s degree
FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Manchester University is now offering the nation’s first dedicated master’s degree in pharmacogenomics.
The intensive one-year program is designed to propel graduates into well-paying jobs in the emerging field of pharmacogenomics (PGx), a key component of personalized medicine.
PGx relates an individual’s genes (DNA) to their response to medications. PGx empowers physicians and other clinicians to identify correct medications and to optimize an individual’s drug therapy early on. PGx can replace the trial-and-error approach, greatly decreasing medication costs and side effects.
Pharmacogenomics can be utilized across therapeutic areas, such as cardiology and psychiatry. PGx may well have its most dramatic effect on cancer treatment, where approximately 75 percent of patients don’t respond to the initial prescribed medication.
“The Master of Science in Pharmacogenomics Program is designed for individuals with an undergraduate science degree or a professional degree in health care or health sciences,” said David Kisor, Pharm.D., PGx program director at MU. “Manchester’s program offers individuals a pathway to this transformative field of medicine.”
Graduates can expect career opportunities in biological technology, genetic testing laboratories and the pharmaceutical industry.
The degree can also be a valuable head start for individuals seeking further training in research (Ph.D.) or health-care professions, such as medicine or pharmacy. Additionally, the degree will allow current health-care providers to focus on PGx in their respective fields, such as medicine, pharmacy and genetic counseling.
“This is a unique opportunity for individuals looking for a specialized field of health care that is poised for exciting growth and world-changing potential,” said Raylene Rospond, Pharm.D., Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Manchester is proud to be on the cutting edge as a national leader in pharmacogenomics education.”
With classes beginning in the summer term, enrollment will be limited in order to maximize personal attention and collaboration. Information about the program and how to enroll can be found at http://ww2.manchester.edu/home/pharmacogenomics.
“It is our mission at Manchester University to produce graduates who improve the human condition,” said President Dave McFadden. “The world needs people with this specialized training, and Manchester’s continued strength in the sciences positions us well to provide it.”
The PGx program is a natural extension of Manchester’s strong record of preparing students for careers in health and science. The Manchester University Fort Wayne campus, where the pharmacogenomics program will be based, is home to MU’s Doctor of Pharmacy program.
The facility at 10627 Diebold Road has state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment, built in 2012 as the result of a $35 million gift from the Lilly Endowment Inc.
“As we look to the future, we will develop additional offerings that allow Manchester students in undergraduate and professional programs – and health-care professionals in practice – to benefit from our expertise in the area of PGx,” Rospond said.
Media inquiries: Emailed questions to Anne Gregory aggregory@manchester.edu in media relations will be forwarded to the person best equipped to answer them. To arrange a phone or on-campus interview with Dr. Kisor or Dr. Rospond, call 260-982-5285.
Fast facts:
November 16, 2015 (Updated November 23, 2015)