Molecular Diagnostics Certificate Program

1. Molecular DiagnosticsCertificate Program January 23, 2008 Information Session

2. Introduction • Terry Kotrla, MS, MT(ASCP)BB • Capella University • 223-5932 • kotrla@austincc.edu • Trish Phelps, PhD • University Colorado Boulder • 223-5914 • pphelps@austincc.edu

3. Certificate Program • The certificate consists of three courses, one offered each semester. • Individuals who meet ASCP requirements can use the coursework as the foundation for taking the certification exam.

4. MLAB 2378 Fundamentals of Molecular Diagnostics • This course provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles of clinical molecular diagnostics and explores the use of molecular techniques in the diagnosis of disease. • Offered ONLINE only in the Fall 16 week semester.

5. BlackBoard • Online course delivery system. • http://acconline.austincc.edu • Will provide detailed information of what is required each week. • You MUST be disciplined to participate in an online course. • Write your schedule down for study time AND STICK TO IT.

6. MLAB 2479 Molecular Diagnostics Techniques • An introduction to the theory and laboratory techniques in molecular biology with an emphasis on molecular diagnostics, including DNA replication, transcription, gene expression and regulation, recombinant DNA and RNA techniques. • Lecture and lab on campus in the SPRING semester during the evening.

7. MLAB 2363 Molecular Diagnostics Clinical • Apply the theory, concepts, and skills in the clinical setting. • Assigned to local hospitals or clinics. • 160 hours • 120 hours at clinical site • 40 hours on research paper

8. How Difficult are the Courses? • These are college level courses covering a relatively complex topic. • Review of basic genetic such as Mendelian genetics and concepts and principles of gene transmission. • Review of nucleic acid structure and function. • In depth coverage of molecular testing.

9. Techniques • Principle and theory of all aspects of a molecular procedure. • Application of knowledge for each element of a procedure • Calculating Temperature of Melting • Determining concentrations of reactants for a procedure. • Determining the sequence of primers and probes for specific targets.

10. Techniques • Either hands on, virtual or both • Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) • DNA hybridization • Gel electrophoresis • Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) • Blotting techniques • Microarray • Evaluation of controls to validate results

11. Other • Components necessary to set up a molecular laboratory. • Physical lay out especially as it concerns prevention of cross-contamination • Equipment necessary

12. Applications • Forensics • Oncology • Immunology • Hematology • Predictive Genetic Testing • Immunohematology • Pharcogenetics • Molecular Virology

13. Resources • A web page of resources has been started to give you an idea of what will be covered. • http://www.austincc.edu/kotrla/md

14. ASCP Certification • This certificate will be the starting point for preparing for certification exam. • Eligibility http://tinyurl.com/2wdnuo • Exam Content http://tinyurl.com/3yg3mf • Suggested reading http://tinyurl.com/2plat5

15. Application Process • Complete an application. • Pick up an “Information Session Attendance Form” • Submit the following: • Completed application • Completed immunization form • Information Session Attendance Form • INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED

16. Class Selection • Applicants from the clinical sites which sent letters of support of our grant to the governor’s office will have priority. • Other applicants will be selected based on the date that the application is ACCEPTED by the Health Science admission’s office.

17. Health Science Admission’s Office • Address: • Room 8356 • 3401 Webberville Rd., Austin, 78702 • Phone Number: 512-223-5700 • Toll Free 1-888-626-1697 • Email: healthsciences@austincc.edu

18. Terry Kotrla’s Contact Info • Phone: 512-223-5932 • BEST CONTACT IS EMAIL • kotrla@austincc.edu

19. Questions???