Laboratory analysis of a DNA, depicted in the photo, from a simple cheek swab, along with other information, can inform clinicians which medication may be the best for an individual, Photo provided.

FORT WAYNE — Manchester University is expanding its pharmacogenomics education program with an online graduate certificate designed for health care professionals seeking to enhance, expand and differentiate their practice.

The program begins in fall semester 2020, said a news release from Manchester University.

Dave Kisor, director of pharmacogenomics at Manchester University. Photo provided.

Pharmacogenomics (PGx), a major component of personalized medicine or precision medicine, tailors an individual’s drug therapy based on their genetic makeup (DNA). Utilizing the relationship between an individual’s genes and their response to a medication can optimize therapy early on and help avoid or decrease the risk of adverse drug events.

“The goal of the new graduate certificate in PGx is to provide practitioners an opportunity to optimize the care they provide their patients. We have curated a set of cutting-edge courses that will allow them to apply important foundational knowledge about PGx to their practice on day one,” said W. Thomas Smith, dean of Pharmacy Programs.

“It provides approximately 180 contact hours of scheduled instruction, with a depth and breadth of pharmacogenomics to raise practice competency,” said Dave Kisor, director of pharmacogenomics at MU.

Pharmacogenomics databases are covered, along with a comprehensive examination of evidence-based clinical guidelines. Those who could benefit from the graduate certificate program include pharmacists, physicians, nurses (nurse practitioners), physician assistants and genetic counselors.

Manchester offers an on-campus, one-year master’s degree program in PGx, a two-year online PGx master’s degree, and a dual degree in pharmacy and pharmacogenomics. Applications, admissions requirements and related information for the graduate certificate can be found at www.manchester.edu/pgxcertificate