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Our online degree programs are designed for busy working adults just like you – intentionally structured to allow you to balance work, life and other commitments. As a student of ACU Online, you are part of a vibrant, virtual, Christ-centered community.
Introducing
Locked-In Tuition.
Our Locked-In Tuition program guarantees you’ll pay the same price for your entire certificate program.
About the Program
The graduate Certificate in Precision Medicine provides foundational training in theory and techniques for the development of targeted therapies through genetics/genomics, immunohistochemistry, and histopathobiology. As a fully online program, you will gain essential knowledge and skills in this rapidly evolving field while continuing in your current professions.
Program Structure
All the Details on Your Degree
The graduate Certificate in Precision Medicine is designed for medical professionals, clinical researchers, and healthcare administrators seeking foundational scientific and operations expertise pertinent to the evolving clinical advances in precision medicine.
Stackable Certificate:
You’re one step closer to a master’s degree.
Looking to learn more about precision medicine? Our graduate certificate’s credit hours are stackable toward ACU’s online Master of Science in Precision Medicine degree. It’s a great option if you plan on applying for the master’s program at a later time. Simply complete the certificate program, and ACU will seamlessly apply your 15 credit hours toward your master’s. Earn both the graduate certificate and master’s degree in approximately two years.
Required Hours
15 Hours
12 month timeframe
Example Coursework
Histopathology and Molecular Biology of Cancer
Molecular Targets in Precision Medicine
Essential Clinical Laboratory Operations/ Management Skills
Applied Medical Genetics/ Pharmacogenomics
Department
Upcoming Start Dates
April 30, 2024
June 25, 2024
Common Job Titles
Clinical Laboratory Technologist or Technician
Histotechnologist and Technician
Pharmacology Laboratory Technician
Natural Science Research Manager
Meet the Program Director
Dr. Jon Wiener, Certificate in Precision Medicine
Dr. Jon R. Wiener is an assistant professor and program director of Precision Medicine in the College of Graduate and Professional Studies at ACU Online. Jon received his Bachelor’s and Master’s in Microbiology from the University of Maryland, College Park, and his Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Virginia, all degrees specializing in the structure and pathogenesis of infectious mammalian viruses.
Following a post-doctoral fellowship at Duke University in the evolution of viral genomes, he stayed on as a junior faculty member at Duke in the Departments of Surgery and Ob-Gyn where his research centered on the molecular biology of Human Breast and Ovarian Cancer pathogenesis and metastasis. He subsequently moved to the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, where his research in Ovarian Cancer continued, and he became the Dean of Academic Affairs for the University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences for ten years. A subsequent move to Asheville, NC resulted in being a community college dean: 7 years as Associate Dean of Arts and Sciences and 5 years as Dean of Allied Health.
He is the author of 36 peer-reviewed papers, six book chapters, and 28 meeting abstracts. His hobbies include teaching martial arts, playing the guitar, and spending time with family and friends.
Spotlight
Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Allison Sherier
Working as a scientist at Caris Life Sciences and adjunct professor in the Precision Medicine program at ACU Online, Dr. Allison Sherier is highly interested in furthering both the educational development of her fellow Caris colleagues as well as graduate students interested in oncological research. As part of the growing Precision Medicine program, Dr. Sherier is deeply invested in seeing how her courses can impact students to become driven researchers dedicated to advancing cancer science and treatments.
Student Spotlight: Maggie Walters
Fresh out of college from sunny Arizona, Maggie Walters always knew she wanted to serve patients with the power and knowledge of biotechnology. Working in the pathology department at Caris Life Sciences and finishing her master’s degree in Precision Medicine with a 4.0 GPA, Maggie is a testament to what it means to joyfully care for patients battling cancer throughout the world.
Faculty Spotlight: Jon Wiener
Dr. Jon Wiener is one of the country’s leading minds in cancer research and microbiology. From leading teams at world-class medical centers to serving as an academic dean to teaching biology at local community colleges, all of these opportunities have led Jon to his current position as the program director for Precision Medicine at ACU Online. Jon is hyper-focused on building a program that equips dedicated scientists and researchers in the collaborative efforts of technology and medicine to prevent and detect cancer and other illnesses early on.
Why Certificate Programs Have Skyrocketed in Popularity
Recent statistics are showing a shift in higher education, with certificates increasing in popularity. Read on to find out the cause for this shift and which areas of study are in high demand.
Furthering Your Career: Pursuing Professional Development vs. Earning A Degree
The job market is as competitive as ever. In order for you to advance your career and standout, additional education and training are a must. Check out our latest blog where we compare and contrast furthering your career by pursuing professional development opportunities vs. earning a degree. Read more to learn about which route might be best for you.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of clinical laboratory technologists and technicians is projected to grow 11% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
To be considered for admission, students must:
- Complete the online program application accompanied by a non-refundable processing fee.
- Submit official transcripts showing earned bachelor’s from a regionally accredited college or university or the equivalent.
- Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above, probationary status may be granted for those with a 2.5 to 2.99 GPA.
- Write a purpose statement addressing career goals and fit with the program, including the Christian identity of the university.
- Submit a current resume.
Abilene Christian University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Ga. 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of ACU.
Abilene Christian University enjoys a strong national reputation as one of the leading private Christian universities in the west and southwest, indicated by various ratings (such as U.S. News and World Report and other reports).