Medical Molecular Genetics (MPhil)

The first Medical Molecular Genetics programme introduced in Ghana, offered by the West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) to produce postgraduates with expertise in molecular genetics research and diagnostics. The programme equips students with comprehensive knowledge of genetics as it relates to human development, population dynamics, diseases and disorders, and trains a new cadre of scientists to conduct research and perform diagnostic testing in medical molecular genetics. Core courses include Mammalian Developmental Genetics, Methods in Biostatistics I, Molecular Basis of Genetic Diseases, Medical Molecular Diagnostics I & II, Bioinformatics and Research Methods, Genetic Analysis of Animal Models, and Advanced Molecular Cytogenetics, with electives such as Molecular Basis of Haematological Disorders, Mendelian and Non-Mendelian Disorders, Human Population Genetics, Renal Genetics and Neurogenetics. The research component comprises a 30-credit thesis and a 6-credit seminar series, alongside hands-on laboratory training in key molecular biology techniques used in clinical molecular diagnosis, genetic testing and genetics research — including specimen collection, nucleic acid analysis and PCR. Graduates are prepared to work in healthcare facilities performing molecular diagnostic testing, conduct systematic research, and progress to advanced PhD-level research in molecular genetics and genomics.