Introduction to Oncology and Genetic Counseling

Course Description

Principles of oncology, cancer genetics, inherited syndromes, assessment, therapies and management in cancer care. Application to genetic counseling with an emphasis on familial and inherited risks.

Syllabus

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

  • Explain the molecular basis of cancer and its relevance to inherited risk

  • Master common terminology related to the development, diagnosis and management of cancer and be able to use in case preparation.

  • Describe key features of select hereditary cancer syndromes including clinical findings, role of genetics, genetic testing options, clinical management and key psychosocial elements

  • Discern the aspects of diagnosis, treatment and management of common cancers (e.g. breast, gynecologic, colorectal, prostate) that are of particular importance to genetic counseling practice.

  • Assess an individual's chance to have a hereditary cancer syndrome and risk to develop cancer using personal medical history and family history details.

  • Identify aspects of a somatic test report relevant to hereditary cancer risk assessment.

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure

Percentage/Points

Reading check-ins

10%

Quizzes

10%

Terminology assignment

10%

Asking (& answering) questions assignment

15%

NCCN Practice assignment

10%

Beyond the Variant assignment

15%

Final Exam

20%

Attendance & Participation

10%

Grading Scale

Percentage

Letter Grade

93–100%

A

90–92%

A–

87–89%

B+

83–86%

B

80–82%

B–

Below 80%

F

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

Students are not required to purchase any materials to complete the course.

Scholarly Perspectives

This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.