Directed Studies & Internships

An experiential learning component—referred to as Directed Study or more commonly an Internship—is a required part of the Professional Science Master’s (PSM) in Health Care Genetics curriculum. These experiences are designed to connect academic learning with real-world applications in research or clinical practice, helping students develop critical thinking and professional skills aligned with your career goals.

Structure & Collaboration

Internships are a three-way cooperative venture between the student, an Internship Site Supervisor (at the host organization) and a UConn Faculty Advisor (Supervised Internship Instructor). Working collaboratively with your faculty advisor, students will arrange field experiences at approved sites that may include:

  • Biotechnology or pharmaceutical companies
  • Clinics or hospitals
  • Diagnostic laboratories
  • Community health organizations
    		•

    Goals of the Internship Experience

    The internship or capstone project is intended to:

  • Apply academic knowledge in real-world settings
  • Strengthen interdisciplinary and critical thinking skills
  • Enhance professionalism, communication, and teamwork
  • Address real issues in the delivery or advancement of health care genetic services
    		•

    Internship Logistics

  • Internships are typically full-time and last approximately 3 months
  • Students currently employed in a health care genetics or related field may complete a work-integrated project in lieu of an external placement
  • Flexible project timelines are available, ranging from one to two semesters
    		•

    Clinical Internship Requirements

    All clinical placements must be completed at Program-approved facilities. While the program will assist in identifying placements, students are responsible for meeting site-specific requirements. The program cannot secure placements for students who fail to meet a site’s eligibility criteria.

     

    Common clinical site requirements include:

  • Passing background checks (state, federal, and sex offender registries)
  • Passing drug screenings (including substances like prescribed marijuana or opiates)
  • Providing proof of up-to-date physical exams and immunizations (e.g., TB, MMR, varicella, flu); religious exemptions are generally not accepted
  • Covering costs associated with immunization titers, screenings, and compliance tracking

    •  

    Compliance is monitored through Complio, an electronic tracking system. Students are responsible for all related costs, which may vary based on residency history.

     

    If you have questions about background checks or drug screenings, contact UConn’s Clinical Case Manager

    Evaluation & Outcomes

    Students will demonstrate successful completion of internship objectives through:

  • Written reports
  • Oral presentations (e.g. Final Capstone Presentation)
  • Scientific publications (as applicable)

    •  

    A learning agreement will be developed to outline expectations and deliverables. In consultation with their advisor and site supervisor, students will:

  • Define a key issue, challenge, or opportunity in the field
  • Analyze risks and evaluate strategic solutions
  • Recommend actionable next steps for implementation
    		•
    Interested in where our students have interned? Visit our Alumni Page to explore past projects—and remember, we are always open to developing new internship opportunities tailored to your interests.