Bachelor in Clinical and Translational Sciences

Undergraduate students at the University of Rochester can now major in Clinical and Translational Sciences (CTSC). The new major is a collaborative effort between the UR CTSI and the College of Arts, Sciences and Engineering.

The major provides students with in-depth instruction in the fundamental skills, methodology, and principles of clinical and translational research as well as formal laboratory experiences, and specific ongoing guidance on the process of translational science and emerging developments in the field. Students will gain knowledge of a range of scientific disciplines allowing them to effectively communicate and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. They will also gain an understanding of the challenges that are common to all clinical and translational research projects and their potential solutions.

Learn about the major

Research Seminar in Translational Sciences

One of the hallmarks of the Clinical and Translational Sciences major is the CTSC299 Research Seminar in Translational Sciences, which is open to juniors and seniors only. In this seminar course, students will learn the principles of translational science (the field of investigation that is focused on understanding the scientific and operational principles underlying each step of the translational research process) as well as gain practical skills in translational research (research that turns observations in the laboratory, clinic and community into interventions that improve the health of individuals and the public).

For this two-semester research seminar, students will conduct the equivalent of six credits of independent research (~10 hours per week) with one or more faculty members or research labs, supplemented by lectures covering the basic principles of translational science and weekly in-class discussion sessions. Through this research immersive experience, students will develop presentation skills and become familiar with research approaches across the translational spectrum with the help of faculty and peer mentors.

Students are eligible to enroll in CTSC299 if they have declared their major and if they have completed the following courses: PHLT 103 or STAT 214, CHEM 203 and CHEM207, and BIOL 198 (or BIOL 190) or BIOL 204.

Register for CTSC299

For questions about the Clinical and Translational Sciences major or the CTSC299 course, please contact program directors Edwin van Wijngaarden, PhD or Scott Steele, PhD.