Speak with an admissions advisor. 562-475-4604
Speak with an admissions advisor. 602-887-5780
Speak with an admissions advisor. 562-580-0525
By Frankie Fann, MS, CGC Certified Genetic Counselor
So, you want to apply to a genetic counseling graduate program? Congrats on discovering the amazing world of genetic counseling! You may be asking yourself, where should I start? The process can seem overwhelming, but this guide will help you to better understand how to determine which programs to apply to and what the application process looks like.
Genetic counseling is a master’s level profession. This field requires an advanced degree given that genetic counselors must be knowledgeable in not only human genetics but also medical genetics, genetic testing technologies, psychosocial counseling, and much more. Most programs are two years in length, but it is important to note that some programs are accelerated. Most programs require students to attend classes and rotations in person, while others, including the program at Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU), offer online training.
The best way to learn about GC graduate programs is to review their websites where you can find information about application requirements and deadlines, curriculum, clinical rotation opportunities, program mission and goals, costs/tuition, and more.
Throughout this guide, you will learn more about how important it is to do your research when applying to GC programs to ensure that you get the best education based on your goals and needs.
First, what does it mean to be “accredited”? Accreditation refers to the process in which a nongovernmental group of peers gives public recognition to a program that meets educational requirements. For genetic counseling, the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC) is responsible for accrediting genetic counseling graduate programs.
You may be asking, why is it so important to make sure a program is accredited before you apply? Accreditation helps to ensure that future genetic counselors are adequately trained. Before you can take the genetic counseling board exam to become board-certified for clinical practice, you must have a degree from an ACGC accredited program. For a list of accredited graduate programs in the United States and Canada, click here.
There are core courses and specialized courses featured in the curriculum for GC graduate programs. Core courses typically encompass topics related to human genetics, counseling theory, and ethics. Specialized courses can include topics such as specialty-specific genetics (prenatal, oncology, pediatric, etc.), research, population health, testing technologies, and more.
It is important to review program websites to get a feel for what each program’s curriculum encompasses and what your goals are. For instance, if you are interested in cardiology genetic counseling, you may wish to apply to a program that has the resources to cultivate that interest. While all programs must meet the same accreditations requirements, different programs may offer different courses based on resources and expertise of their program. Many programs also require completion of a research project, and it can be helpful to understand what the requirements are and what resources are available. Research is monumental in the field of medical genetics and genetic counseling, and your level of interest in contributing to research can have an impact on which programs you apply to.
Additionally, you will want to look at programs’ clinical rotation schedules and offerings. Clinical rotations are invaluable as this is where you will gain hands-on experience developing and refining the skills needed to counsel patients with the support and expertise from mentors in the field of medical genetics and genetic counseling. While all students must gain experience in prenatal, pediatric, and oncology genetic counseling, different programs offer different clinical experiences based on their local resources. It is important for students to gain a variety of experience that includes counseling in a variety
of settings (hospital systems, clinics, specialized genetic counseling centers, telehealth, etc.) and other specialties (cardiology, neurology, laboratory/industry, etc.).
A key factor to consider when applying to programs is geographic location. For one, in-state versus out-of-state status can impact the cost of tuition. Program location can also impact the types of courses and opportunities that are offered depending on the area’s resources. Being able to visit the campus and/or meet faculty and students can help you better understand the culture and vibe of a program as well.
GC programs require prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, human genetics, psychology, and/or other related courses. While there is typically a GPA requirement for admission, most programs no longer require submission of GRE scores for admission. Other requirements often include submission of a resume, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. For your resume, you will want to be able to list experiences relevant to the field of genetic counseling. Highly recommended experiences include genetic counseling exposure (shadowing, internships, genetic counseling assistant work), advocacy work, psychosocial counseling experience, etc.
After GC programs review applications, they will select applicants to participate in interviews for admission. The interview process is where you will want to be able communicate your interest in becoming a genetic counselor and how your experiences so far have helped you to develop skills needed to be successful in a GC graduate program and eventually as a practicing genetic counselor. In preparation for interviews, many find it helpful to practice answering common questions about how your experiences have deepened your interest in the profession and be able to draw on specific situations in which you learned valuable lessons and/or skills.
For many, financial considerations are of utmost importance when determining when applying. The National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) website provides information on available GC scholarships, and you can find more information here.
Many graduate schools offer scholarships and/or work study programs as well. If you have any questions about specific programs’ financial assistance opportunities, you can reach out directly to learn more.
Financial aid is also available for students applying to graduate programs. You can learn more about financial aid at the Federal Student Aid website by clicking here.
Some other considerations include in-state versus out-of-state tuition rates, application fees, costs to obtain and submit official undergraduate transcripts, fees to register for the Match system (see next section for more details), and expenses for travel for in-person interviews.
GC programs participate in a “matching system” that helps place students into a program to which they applied. Basically, for students who interview for admission, there is a requirement for students to rank the programs based on the desire to attend that specific program based on all of the considerations listed above (and any other considerations that may be important to you). Program faculty will also rank students they believe will be successful in their specific program. From there, the Match system will place students in programs based on rankings. To learn more about the Genetic Counseling Admissions Match system, visit their website here.
As you have learned, there is much to take into consideration when figuring out which programs to apply to. First, determine what factors are most important to you. Next, take the time to thoroughly research different programs to get a better idea of which programs are best for you and your goals. Make sure you give yourself enough time to create and collect application materials by each program’s deadlines as well as budget any required expenses. After applying, be on the lookout for correspondence regarding interviews, and be sure to register for the Match system. Genetic counseling is a very fulfilling career, and we wish you the best in your journey to entering the profession!
Learn more about SCU’s MSGC program.
Ready to start your journey? Apply now.