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Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist

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Announcement

The Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist (CGMBS) Training Program, offered by the Department of Biological Sciences, is a 12 month program that enables students to obtain a Technologist in Molecular Biology (MB) Certificate from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), as well as a California Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist (CGMBS) License issued by the California Department of Public Health.

The 52-week-long CGMBS program at SJSU prepares students to perform molecular biology diagnostic tests in various settings, including working in hospital clinical laboratories, commercial reference laboratories, or research and development roles in biotech companies. Their expertise and skills in molecular biology techniques are critical for advancing healthcare and biotechnology.

Students spend 35 hours a week training on-site at one of our Bay Area clinical affiliates and 5 hours a week taking part in formal coursework online. 

Program Snapshot

9

units

$1,000

per unit*

Fall

admission

*Fee listed will increase by 5% next Fall. SJSU makes every effort to keep student costs to a minimum; however, fees listed in published schedules may need to be increased to maintain the high quality of education we offer and are subject to change upon approval by the Board of Trustees, the Chancellor, or the campus President, as appropriate.

Program Features

Prepare for certification

The program enables students to obtain a Technologist in Molecular Biology (MB) Certificate from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and a California Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist (CGMBS) License issued by the California Department of Public Health.

Great networking opportunities

35 hours a week are devoted to clinical training. This experience gives you the opportunity to learn from and network directly with those already in the field.

Cohort based learning

Enjoy the benefits of a collaborative learning style, where you can share ideas, knowledge and support each other through the program.

Successful exam completion

100% of graduates from 2018 to present passed the ASCP Board of Certification exam within one year of graduation.

Career Opportunities

  • 100% of graduates from 2018 to present found employment in a related field and/or continued their education within one year of graduation.
  • There are clinical laboratory workforce shortages throughout California and the country, so our graduates have many job opportunities. 
  • Typical starting pay for a new CGMBS is approximately 50 dollars an hour. 

How to Apply

Learn more about how to apply below.
 
  • Admission Requirements:
    • Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent higher degree in a biological or clinical laboratory science, or field related to genetics.
    • 18 semester units of biology including 
      • 3 semester units of genetics
      • 3 semester units of molecular biology or cell biology
      • Additional units can be in basic biology, genetics, cell biology, microbiology or molecular biology
    • 10 semester units of chemistry, including biochemistry
      Completion of 10 semester units of upper-division biology or chemistry courses with a grade of B or better 
    • 12 semester units of upper-division science coursework at a United States university
    • A minimum GPA of 2.8 on a 4-point scale 
    • Experience with molecular techniques, either through hands-on work (at least 500 work hours) or through classes (at least 9 semester units of laboratory credits in molecular biology, cell biology, microbiology, or genetics-related labs) 
    • Three (3) letters of recommendation 
    • Possession of a Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist Trainee License 
    • Acceptance by the SJSU CGMBS Program admissions committee and a clinical affiliate 
    • Legal right to work in the United States
    • Meet all the requirements of San José State University Admissions Department
    • Be able to pass basic health screen, drug test, background check
    • Proof of current immunity to Hep B and other infectious diseases as required by our clinical affiliates

    Additional Requirements for Applicants with Degrees from Foreign Countries can be found on the CGMBS program site. 

  • How to Apply:
    For detailed information on how to apply to the Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist please visit the CGMBS application page. 
  • Application Deadline
    Fall 2024
    Application Deadline: February 15th, 2024
    Document Deadline: Arrange with the Program Director

FAQ

Visit the FAQ section of the CGMBS program site.

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Contact Information

Michael Bowling
Program Director
cls-group@sjsu.edu

 

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