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In as little as 3.5 months (15 Weeks).
SUMMER: MAY 5TH, 2025
FALL: SEPTEMBER 2nd, 2025
SPRING: JANUARY 5TH, 2026
This online (asynchronous) graduate certificate in Pre-Genetic Counseling is designed to help prepare those who wish to apply to a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling degree program or explore what is involved in genetics counseling. Genetic counselors work in a wide variety of capacities including serving in health promotion education, patient advocacy, direct patient counseling, research, and health care management. To become a genetic counselor, one must earn a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling degree from an Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC) accredited program and pass a licensing examination administered by the American Board of Genetic Counselors (ABGC). This Pre-Genetic Counseling Certificate provides the opportunity for students to strengthen their applications to highly competitive genetic counseling master’s degree programs. Upon successful completion, students will be able to engage in analysis, reflection, and problem-solving concerning issues in genomics and describe the process for direct patient counseling related to family histories, genetic test results, and genetic medical conditions.
This certificate consists of four courses. Students will take two concurrent courses for seven and a half weeks, providing improved topic focus and mastery.
If a student completes the Pre-Genetic Counseling certificate program and meets the admissions standards for the MSGC program, the applicant will be guaranteed an interview with the MSGC program admissions team. Applicants will still be required to participate in the National Match Service for Genetic Counseling (NMS).
The 100% online structure allows students to participate whenever or wherever they have access to a computer and the internet, there are no set classroom attendance times. Courses do have weekly requirements.
Many employer education programs cover all, or a portion of the tuition, or students can utilize Federal Financial Aid. Inquire to learn more.
Orientation for online learning is provided. For those new to this style of education, you’ll receive the guidance, support, and tools you need to succeed.
The Certificate program is offered three times per year and optimally aligns with the specific application interview eligibility dates listed below.
| PrE-GC Certificate Start Date | Pre-GC CERTIFICATE COMPLETION DATE | MSGC Program APPLICATION INTERVIEW ELIGIBILITY | National Match ProCess |
| MAY 5, 2025 | AUGUST 17, 2025 | Jan-Feb, 2026 | SPRING 2026 |
| SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 | DECEMBER 14, 2025 | JAN-Feb, 2026 | SPRING 2026 |
| JANUARY 5, 2026 | APRIL 19, 2026 | Jan-Feb, 2027 | SPRING 2027 |
SCU’s Graduate Certificate in Pre-Genetic Counseling is designed for students interested in applying to masters-level programs in genetic counseling. The goal is to provide students with theoretical and practical knowledge to improve their graduate applications.
Total Credits: 12
| Title |
Credits |
| Genetic Counseling as a Career |
3 |
| Clinical Case Studies in Genetic Counseling |
3 |
| Introduction to Counseling Psychology |
3 |
| Psychosocial Principles of Counseling |
3 |
| Total |
12 |
For full program information, view our catalog.
I am excited to present to you our unique four course Certificate in Pre-Genetic Counseling. We are entering a new era in medicine, where genetic technologies play an indispensable role in diagnostics, treatment, and prevention of diseases. These advancements allow for earlier detection, personalized therapies, and improved patient outcomes.
Genetic counselors have a pivotal role in translating complex genetic information into understandable and applicable insights for patients, families, and healthcare professionals. The demand for these professionals is growing rapidly due to the expanding role of genetics in health care. From preconception and prenatal care to cancer, cardiology, and neurology, genetic counselors serve as the bridge between the lab and the clinic, helping to turn new discoveries and diagnostics into life-saving medical practices.
Master’s programs in Genetic Counseling are known to be very competitive and selective. This preparatory program aims to enhance your profile and make you stand out from other applicants.
Our curriculum was created and is taught by leading professionals in the field as well as experienced, licensed clinical counselors. By completing this program, you will not only gain a comprehensive understanding of genetic counseling but also demonstrate your commitment, initiative, and readiness to thrive in a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling degree program.
Ultimately, our program seeks to offer an enriching experience that not only prepares you for future studies but also ignites a passion for advancing patient health through the power of genetic knowledge. By choosing to join us, you’re choosing a proactive step towards a rewarding career dedicated to improving patient outcomes and transforming the future of healthcare.
We are thrilled to have you join our academic community and look forward to helping you succeed in your journey in the field of genetic counseling.
Program Director, Human Genetics and Genomics Program
Southern California University of Health Sciences
Applicants for the Graduate Certificate in Pre-Genetic Counseling must meet the following admissions standards. Exceptions are made on an individual basis.
Applicants for the Graduate Certificate in Pre-Genetic Counseling must submit the following documents to be considered for admission:
Students seeking reasonable accommodations or support services while enrolled at SCU can do so through the Student Services Office (SSO). We encourage you to register with SSO as early as possible to allow sufficient time for the approval and notification process.
$7,800 tuition to complete the program.*
| Term | Tuition* | Program Fees** | Petition to Graduate Fee** | Total Term Cost*** |
| 1 | $7,800 | $150 | $225 | $8,175 |
*Tuition is charged at $650 per credit hour. Tuition is billed by credit hour and rates reflected above represent the fixed rate for a student entering during the 2024/2025 academic year. Tuition rates are subject to change and may not be reflected on the website or other SCU materials. Please contact us for the most updated information. Restrictions on our fixed rate tuition guarantee apply. To remain eligible for the fixed rate guarantee, students must graduate either on time or within one additional term of the published program length they are enrolled in. Refer to the Fixed Rate Tuition Guarantee section of the academic catalog for more information. Actual tuition per term will vary depending upon the number of credit hours enrolled.
**Program fees listed are for the 2024/2025 academic year and are subject to change. Program fees include a charge for technology, and are charged every term that the student is enrolled.
***Books, supplies, and other equipment not included in this tuition and fee schedule may be required for this program.
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We are proud to offer a fixed tuition guarantee, federal financial aid for those who qualify, and a range of institutional and program-specific scholarship opportunities.