Fort Wayne genome science program grows tenfold in 5 year

Fort Wayne, IN (01/14/2022) — FORT WAYNE, Indiana -- Pharmacogenomics (PGx) at Manchester University is the most popular master's degree program in the nation for genome sciences, according to College Factual.

The program has grown from eight students in the summer of 2016 to 81 students in fall 2021.

Offering both on-campus and online programs based in Fort Wayne, Manchester's MS in PGx gives students the opportunity to join one of the newest and most exciting fields of science: precision medicine, also known as personalized medicine.

Pharmacogenomics, the study of the relationship between an individual's genetics and their response to a medication allows physicians and other clinicians to prescribe drugs to maximize therapy early on and avoid or decrease the risk of adverse effects.

The program is nationally recognized for innovative teaching. This past spring, it received the 2021 Innovation in PGx Teaching Award from the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy special interest group specializing in pharmacogenomics.

College Factual also said Manchester's MS in PGx is the most focused program of its type in the nation, a nod to MU's dedicated faculty.

Those with an MS in PGx are often employed in genetic testing, translational science and pharmaceutical industries as applied scientists in pharmacogenomic testing, which can include sample accessioning and preparation, sample analysis, data storage, data mining, interpretation, and reporting. Some go on to pursue a Ph.D. or a professional degree in medicine, pharmacy or dentistry. This program also allows current medical professionals to expand their capabilities in genomics.

Manchester itself offers a dual degree that allows students to combine a professional doctoral degree in pharmacy and master's degree in pharmacogenomics. MU also offers a graduate certificate in pharmacogenomics providing in-depth PGx education to enhance the clinical capabilities of health care professionals.

In 2016, Manchester was the first university in the nation to offer a dedicated master's degree in pharmacogenomics. It is based at MU's Fort Wayne campus, 10627 Diebold Road.

For the media

David Kisor is director of pharmacogenomics at Manchester. To arrange an interview, email dfkisor@manchester.edu. More about Dr. Kisor.

How to pronounce pharmacogenomics: Farma ko genomics (far'm-ko-j-no-miks)

More about Manchester's on-campus and online PGx programs.

2022 College Factual rankings for Manchester University.

Related information

CDC about pharmacogenomics: https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/disease/pharma.htm

Mayo Clinic about pharmacogenomics: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/in-depth/personalized-medicine/art-20044300

Manchester University, with campuses in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., provides vibrant and transformative student experiences. Learn more.

Our mission: Manchester University respects the infinite worth of every individual and graduates persons of ability and conviction who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled, productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human condition.

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