New Stanford course in cancer genomics available online
STANFORD, Calif., Oct. 26, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- There is no stopping the rapid rate of progress in the field of genomics. Over the last decade, technology and inquisitive minds have created new directions in research and the next-generation of deep sequencing technologies. Breath-taking discoveries that were once reserved for laboratories are now accessible to the public and impacting medical decision making.
In the Silicon Valley, faculty from the Stanford University School of Medicine have partnered to share insights and the latest developments they are researching in cancer genomics. Through a new online course, they expose participants to the role genomics can play in cancer diagnosis, prognosis and treatment.
New Frontiers in Cancer Genomics is being offered to professionals entering or advancing in the fields of healthcare, medicine, technology and education. It teaches practical applications and methodologies that focus on the individual, not just the illness. Through video lectures, Stanford faculty provide course participants a greater view of mutations in healthy and cancerous cells, at multiple stages of growth, and how more targeted, personalized healthcare can positively impact disease outcomes.
"Cancer is a really important disease for genetic profiling. 50% of men and 33% of women in the U.S. will get cancer at some point in their lifetime. We need better ways to diagnose it, and we also, very sorely, need better treatments," says Michael Snyder, professor and chair of genetics at Stanford and academic director of the Stanford Genetics and Genomics Certificate program.
Non-invasive analyses methods, assessments of hereditary risk and gene therapy treatments are some of the topics taught by Snyder and his fellow instructors in the online program. In addition to their video lectures, courses are comprised of exercises, readings and a final exam to help participants gain the knowledge they need to apply what they've learned in their own work.
"If we really want to make an impact in the fight against cancer, we need to provide access to these advancements and the opportunities they offer in order for them to become regular practice," says Snyder. "The more widely adopted they become, the better."
Other online genetics course topics taught in the Stanford Genetics and Genomics Certificate program include:
- agricultural biotechnology
- genetic engineering
- genomic sequencing
- molecular biology
- pharmacogenomics
- stem cells
Acceptance into the online certificate program is ongoing and participants may apply through the Stanford Center for Professional Development.
About the Stanford Center for Professional Development
The Stanford Center for Professional Development makes it possible for today's best and brightest professionals to enroll in Stanford University courses and programs while they maintain their careers. Courses and programs from the School of Engineering and related Stanford departments are delivered online, at Stanford, at company work sites and international locations—providing a global community of learners with flexibility and convenience, and enabling them to apply their education to their work.
Media Contact:
Kara Scoggin
Senior Communications Manager
Stanford Center for Professional Development
[email protected] | 650-454-6920
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SOURCE Stanford Center for Professional Development
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