Genetic Counseling

Genetic counselors assess individual or family risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as genetic disorders and birth defects. They interact with other health care providers, researchers, and individuals and families concerned with the risk of inherited conditions. They advise individuals and families to support informed decision-making and coping methods. Genetic Counselors can specialize in a number of areas, including prenatal care, pediatrics, oncology, and neurology.

Suggested undergraduate majors: Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, Applied Human Biology. Many graduate programs require additional courses in Biostatistics, Communications, and Psychology.

Graduate training: Master’s degree.

National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC): https://www.nsgc.org/
American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC): https://www.abgc.net/

Program Directory: https://www.gceducation.org/students-volunteers/#program

Standardized test: Graduate Record Examination (GRE) https://www.ets.org/gre/

Admissions are based on a match system, in which applicants and programs rank their placement preferences. Applicants must register with the Match Service before applying to individual programs: https://natmatch.com/gcadmissions/overview.html

Genetic Counseling Prospective Student Network: https://linktr.ee/GCPSN

Please note: this page provides information for current SPU students and does not represent a program that SPU offers.