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WHITTIER, CA – (June 30, 2023) — Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) is proud to announce the launch of our Graduate Certificate in Pre-Genetic Counseling. This 12-credit, asynchronous online program is designed to help prepare those who wish to apply to a master of science in a genetic counseling degree program or explore what is involved in genetics counseling.
Graduate Certificate in Pre-Genetic Counseling Program Director Dr. Dan Handley, M.S., Ph.D.
“I am excited we are launching this innovative new program,” said Program Director Dr. Dan Handley, M.S., Ph.D. “Genetic technologies and new discoveries are transforming nearly every area of health care. The Graduate Certificate in Pre-Genetic Counseling demonstrates Southern California University of Health Sciences’ commitment to providing high-quality educational opportunities that address the needs of today’s competitive job market and increasingly high demand for caring, competent healthcare professionals.”
Genetic counselors work in diverse settings, including health promotion education, patient advocacy, direct patient counseling, research, and health care management. To become a genetic counselor, professionals must obtain a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling from an accredited program and pass a licensing examination. Given the highly competitive nature of genetic counseling master’s degree programs, the Graduate Certificate in Pre-Genetic Counseling will provide valuable knowledge and experience to those seeking a career in this field.
The certificate program consists of four courses, divided into two concurrent blocks of 7.5 weeks each. This structure allows students to complete the program in a single 15-week term. A part-time option is also available. As an entirely asynchronous online program, it offers excellent flexibility for working professionals, allowing students to learn remotely within their own schedules without disrupting their existing commitments.
Upon successful completion, students will be able to engage in analysis, reflection, and problem-solving in relation to issues in genomics. In addition, they will be able to describe the process for direct patient counseling related to family histories, genetic test results, and genetic medical conditions.
The Graduate Certificate in Pre-Genetic Counseling will start accepting its first students in Fall 2023. For more information, please visit scuhs.edu.