Northwestern University : Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University : Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (Complete your COAMFTE-accredited MFT online program in as few as 21 months. No GRE required.)
Walden University : MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited) Walden University : MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited, six specializations to choose from)
Grand Canyon University : Master's Degree in Counseling (As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition.)
Liberty University : MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (Online with required intensives)
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) : Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (100% Online, No GRE Required)
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) : Online Psychology Degrees (Bachelors and Masters. Flexible. Affordable. And achievable.)
The Chicago School : M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Online Programs. CACREP Accredited.)Before choosing an institution, you should review the program's information to verify that it has the appropriate accreditation. For a program to lead to board certification, it must hold accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling. The best way to advance your career in this field is to investigate some accredited genetic counseling programs, including programs available at universities across the country.
Accredited Genetic Counseling Programs at a Glance
The accreditation process for a select degree program can include a look into the program's curriculum, its instructors, and its outlined expectations for learners accepted into the program. You can review details about the accreditation process in the sections below.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements |
Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Northwestern University
Online MA in Counseling
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
Prepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 months Learn MoreFull-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available |
| Northwestern University
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
The COAMFTE-accredited MFT@Northwestern is offered by The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as 21 months. No GRE is required, but applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Full and part-time tracks available. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
School counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Learn More |
| Grand Canyon University
Master's Degree in Counseling
HLC and NASAC Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's degree emphases include: Childhood and Adolescence Disorders, Christian Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Trauma. Designed to meet the academic requirements of the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential and the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. Learn More |
| Liberty University
MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Online with required intensives |
Our CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling degree online can help you become an ethical, well-trained mental health counselor with the knowledge, values, and skills you need to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
| Mid-America Christian University (MACU)
Master of Science (MS) in Counseling
Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
✔ Online
100% Online |
Expand your impact with an online counseling degree rooted in faith-based practice. Mid-America Christian University offers the largest Master of Science (MS) in Counseling program in Oklahoma, with emphasis areas in addiction and substance abuse, applied behavioral science, clinical mental health counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Explore the online MS in Counseling at MACU. Learn More |
| Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
Online Psychology Degrees
Bachelors and Masters NECHE Accredited |
✔ Online
No application fee or GRE/GMAT scores required |
With our unique programs - from child and adolescent development to forensic psychology - you'll be prepared for a wide variety of careers in case management, research, human resources, youth services and social services. Learn More |
| The Chicago School
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Bachelor's Degree Required. |
This online CMHC program prepares students for a career offering mental health services in a variety of settings; helping diverse clients through issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, stress, relationship difficulties, and suicidal impulses. Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
What Is Genetic Counseling?
From the point of view of patients, genetic counseling can be an incredibly useful tool for determining their own risk of inherited disease and that of their child, and what steps can be taken to prevent a serious illness or disorder.
Some specific services offered by genetic counselors include:
The skills learned through accredited genetic counseling programs can allow professionals in this field to approach clients with the scientific skills needed to find answers and the communication skills needed to exhibit compassion and understanding, and to help clients with constructive planning.
As more becomes known about the genetic influence of certain diseases and disorders, the demand for qualified genetic counselors may continue to rise. This type of clinical training can be a good fit for incoming students looking for a scientifically advanced field of counseling to engage in.
Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (NASAC Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (CACREP Accredited)
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) - Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited)
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) - Online Psychology Degrees (NECHE Accredited)
The Chicago School - M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
What Is the ACGC?
The Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC) is the leading accreditation organization for degree programs focused on genetic counseling. The ACGC seeks to improve the quality of educational programs by creating standards and guidelines for institutions training the future generations of genetic counselors.
For universities that are seeking accreditation, the ACGC can be a guide to creating a successful and approved degree curriculum. The ABCG has specific expectations for board certification, making it vital for educational programs to provide the right type of classroom and field training for their students.
This agency can also be a helpful resource for incoming learners to the field of genetic counseling since it offers a program directory of accredited genetic counseling programs. If you are seeking an accredited degree program, this agency can provide you with quick access to numerous universities open for enrollment.
Programs that are seeking accreditation must first develop a curriculum that meets the unique standards of the ACGC before engaging in a lengthy review process of their program. This can include a review of the instructors, the curriculum, clinical internship and rotation requirements, and even student qualifications.
Once a program has received accreditation from the ACGC, it must continue to maintain accreditation in years to come as the standards are modified. Programs that have received ACGC accreditation can be the best quality for incoming genetic counselors interested in becoming certified after graduation.
Genetics is a field that is constantly researched in order to further advance what is known about how DNA can be used. In the years to come, the accreditation standards for these programs can change as more is learned about this fascinating aspect of biological science.
Standards for Accredited Genetic Counseling Programs
The ACGC provides institutions with outlined expectations for accreditation of degree programs in genetic counseling. This agency reviews several aspects of a program’s curriculum, instructors, clinical rotation experiences, and applicant qualifications.
In order for a program to qualify for accreditation from the ACGC, it must be able to show that the curriculum is focused on students’ competencies in areas such as genetic expertise and analysis; interpersonal, psychosocial, and counseling skills; education; and professional development and practice.
The instructional content of genetic counseling programs is weighed heavily during the accreditation process. The ACGC outlines specific expectations for courses these degree programs need to include to be accredited.
Courses such as Principles of Human Genetics/Genomics; Principles of Genetic Counseling and Clinical Genetics; Psychosocial Content; and Social, Ethical, and Legal Issues in Genetics are just a few of the courses that the ACGC requires of this program.
The ACGC also regulates the type of clinical experiences offered by accredited institutions to ensure that learners are receiving adequate training from qualified professionals throughout their program. In order for a program to be accredited by the ACGC, it must allow only ABGC-certified genetic counselors to supervise learners during their fieldwork experiences.
To better prepare learners for a career in genetic counseling, the ACGC may also require that students manage a minimum of 50 participatory cases during their field experiences. At least 40 of these cases must be with clients who are receiving risk evaluations or are affected by a genetic condition.
Each accredited program listed within the ACGC database has coursework and field training that aligns with the expectations of continued accreditation. Training through these accredited genetic counseling programs can provide learners with an exceptional quality of learning and experience that could lead to board certification and career opportunities in the field.
A Review of ACGC Accredited Programs in Genetic Counseling
Below is a list of ACGC accredited graduate genetic counseling programs, including program details and sample courses.
University of Alabama at Birmingham — Master of Science in Genetic Counseling
The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Master of Science in Genetic Counseling is a 21-month program focused on genomic medicine and related counseling techniques. Students within this program may engage in coursework such as Advanced Topics in Genetic Counseling, Prenatal Genetics, Embryology and Teratology, and Principles of Cancer and Adult Genetics. This program also includes a practicum in the first year and clinical rotations in the last three semesters.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences — Master of Science in Genetic Counseling
The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is a two-year program focused on research and practice in the field of genetic science. Throughout the program, students can engage in courses such as Counseling Theory and Skills for Genetic Counselors, Medical Genetics, and Intro to Molecular Genetics and Genomics. During the first year, students may participate in clinical observations before starting their clerkships during the second year of their program.
University of Arizona — Genetic Counseling Graduate Program
The University of Arizona’s Genetic Counseling Graduate Program consists of 22 months of classroom instruction, clinical experiences, and research. Courses in the program’s curriculum include Contemporary Professional Issues in Genetic Counseling, Embryology, Teratology, Birth Defects, and Biostatistics in Public Health. Each semester includes a clinical practicum in addition to a summer internship in practice.
Keck Graduate Institute — Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling
Keck Graduate Institute offers a Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling to incoming learners. While enrolled in this program, students can participate in courses like Genetic Disease Mechanisms, Human Molecular Genetics, and Advanced Pharmaceutical Discovery. Students can complete this program in 21 months. Clinical observation requirements begin in the second semester, which then leads to clinical fieldwork during the second year.
University of California, Irvine — Master of Science in Genetic Counseling Program
The University of California at Irvine offers a competitive Master of Science in Genetic Counseling for incoming learners. This two-year program consists of courses that include Human Molecular Genetics, Quantitative Genetics, and Hereditary Cancer Counseling. This program includes clinical rotations that begin within the first year and continue throughout the program.
University of California, Los Angeles — Master of Science in Genetic Counseling
The master’s in genetic counseling at the University of California at Los Angeles is an in-depth accredited genetic counseling program focusing on research and applied science. Courses within this program include Translational Genomics; Specialty Genetics in Practice; and Ethical, Legal, and Societal Topics in Genetic Counseling. This two-year degree program includes both observational and clinical experiences for an optimum learning opportunity.
California State University, Stanislaus (SF Bay Area) — Master of Science in Genetic Counseling
California State University, Stanislaus offers a unique Master of Science in Genetic Counseling to incoming students. The entire program can be completed in two years and includes internship requirements in the first year and clinical rotations in the second year. Courses included within the curriculum are Principles and Practices of Genetic Counseling I & II, Biochemical Genetics, and Molecular Biology and Cytogenetics Lab.
Stanford University — Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling
Stanford Medicine’s Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling can be an excellent resource for learners intrigued by practice and research in this field. Clinical rotation experiences begin during the summer semester between learners’ first and second years, continuing throughout the second year. Courses within this program include Prenatal Genetics, Pediatric and Adult Genetic Counseling, and Cardiovascular Genetics.
University of Colorado Denver — Graduate Program in Genetic Counseling
The 21-month Master of Science in Genetic Counseling at the University of Colorado at Denver can provide enrollees with the opportunity for advanced learning through research, practice, and laboratory studies. Required practicum experiences take place at hospitals and genetic clinics within the Denver area. The courses required for graduation from this program include Human Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Advanced Psychosocial Genetic Counseling, and Risk Calculation in Genetic Counseling.
University of South Florida — Genetic Counseling Training Program
The University of South Florida currently offers a Master of Science in Public Health in Genetic Counseling. This program can be completed in 21 months by most learners and includes skill-based courses and clinical rotations throughout the program. Courses taken during this program include Human Genomics in Medicine and Public Health, Case Studies in Medical Genetics, and Applied Clinical Genetics.
Emory University School of Medicine — Master of Medical Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling
Aspiring students intrigued by the field of genetic counseling can seek out accredited genetic counseling programs at Emory University School of Medicine. The Master of Medical Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling at this school offers learners the opportunity to gain expertise in this field through in-depth courses and clinical experiences. The entire program can be completed in five semesters, totaling two full years of study. The classes that students in this program will take include Genetics of Common Diseases, Genetic Counseling Theory and Practice, and Public Health Genomics.
Boise State University — Graduate Program in Genetic Counseling
The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling offered by Boise State University consists of a 56-credit-hour requirement spread over the course of 21 months. This program includes research-based learned and applied clinical opportunities for maximum learning. Some of the courses that students might take during this program include Developmental Anatomy and Embryology, Clinical Genetics, and Health Care Principles and Public Health.
Northwestern University Medical School — Graduate Program in Genetic Counseling
Northwestern University’s master’s in genetic counseling offers different channels of learning to enrolled students. This accredited program teaches through lectures, research opportunities, observations, and even clinical rotations throughout the program. This degree program can be completed in five semesters that are spread over 21 months. The curriculum for this program includes courses like Medical Communication, Principles of Medical Genetics, and Psychosocial Aspects of Genetic Counseling.
Indiana State University — Master of Science in Genetic Counseling
Indiana State University currently offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling for incoming learners. This 62-credit-hour program covers topics in research, bioethics, human genetics, and decision-making. The entire program consists of two years of both in-class learning and clinical experiences. The courses in this program include Diagnostic Genetics, Techniques of Counseling, and Human Lifespan Development.
Indiana University — Genetic Counseling Graduate Program
The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling available through Indiana University School of Medicine can be an excellent resource for students intrigued by the field of genomics. This 21-month program includes challenging clinical experiences and in-depth classroom learning opportunities throughout its duration. Courses like Practical Prenatal Genetic Counseling, Dysmorphology for Genetic Clinicians, and Molecular and Biochemical Genetics fill the curriculum for this program.
MGH Institute of Health Professions — Master of Science in Genetic Counseling
At MGH Institute of Health Professionals, students can earn a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling in 21 months. During these five semesters, students can participate in multiple clinical rotations and clinical observations for optimum learning. Courses listed in the curriculum of this program include Preconception and Prenatal Genetic Counseling, Embryology and Teratology, and Advanced Clinical and Medical Genetics.
Bay Path University — Master of Science in Genetic Counseling
Bay Path University’s accredited genetic counseling master’s program offers online courses for the majority of the program, with two to three sessions on campus twice per year. The entire 59-credit program can be completed in a little under two years. The curriculum is made up of lectures, laboratory studies, clinical rotations, and independent research. Courses in the curriculum include Pathophysiology, Reproductive Genetics, and Cancer Genetic Counseling.
Boston University School of Medicine — Master’s in Genetic Counseling Training Program
The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program at Boston University School of Medicine could be the program of choice for incoming learners with the desire to delve deeply into the field of genomics. This unique program takes around two years to complete and includes specific coursework requirements, attendance at seminars, and a minimum of eight rotations per year. The curriculum includes courses like Genetic Diagnosis and Laboratory Methods, Clinical Applications of Human Genetics, and Professional Issues in Genetic Counseling.
Brandeis University — Master of Science Program in Genetic Counseling
Over the course of two years, learners can enroll in and complete the master’s in genetic counseling at Brandeis University. The goal of this program is to prepare professionals with a deep knowledge of the science of genetics and the counseling skills needed to assist clients with challenging decisions and knowledge acquisition. In addition to the curriculum, students may also participate in one field placement or internship per semester to gain practical skills and knowledge. Courses in the curriculum include Counseling Theory and Technique, Introduction to Cancer Genetic Counseling, and Molecular Biotechnology.
Johns Hopkins University/National Human Genome Research Institute — Genetic Counseling Training Program
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling for interested learners. This two-and-a-half-year accredited genetic counseling program consists of intensive coursework completed at either the East Baltimore or Bethesda campus. A minimum of 400 clinical hours may also be required for graduation from this program. Courses listed in the curriculum include Therapeutic Genetic Counseling, Practical Genetic Counseling, and Statistical Methods in Public Health.
University of Maryland School of Medicine — Master’s Degree in Genetic Counseling
The Master’s in Genetic Counseling Training Program at the University of Maryland School of Medicine takes five semesters to complete and can provide learners with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in genetic counseling. The first year of this program consists mainly of coursework, with some rotations included in the later semester. The second year of the program consists of three 12-week clinical rotations alongside advanced coursework. The courses in this program include Psychosocial Genetic Counseling, Research for Genetic Counselors, and Clinical Cancer Genetics.
University of Michigan — Genetic Counseling Program
The University of Michigan’s Genetic Counseling Program takes 20 months to complete and covers the medical, counseling, and scientific aspects of this field. Students begin clinical observations within their first semester and move on to clinical rotations starting in the second semester. These rotations include responsibilities like preparing cases, reviewing literature, obtaining family histories, and providing counseling. The courses listed in the curriculum for this program include Applied Clinical Genetics, Molecular Basis of Human Genetic Disease, and Basic Concepts of Population and Statistical Genetics.
Wayne State University School of Medicine — Genetic Counseling Graduate Program
Wayne State University School of Medicine currently offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling to incoming graduate students. This entire program consists of 47 credit hours that can be completed in around two years. Learners begin with clinical observations within their first semester and move on to clinical rotations in the second semester and beyond. Each rotation period is 14 weeks and provides students with the opportunity for hands-on practice. The courses that students can take during this program are Introduction to Medical Genetics, Cancer Genetics, and Molecular Basics of Human Genetic Disease.
University of Minnesota — Graduate Program of Study in Genetic Counseling
The two-year full-time accredited genetic counseling graduate program at the University of Minnesota can be an excellent choice for students interested in advanced learning. This program consists of a blend of both intensive classroom learning and on-site observations and clinical rotations. The courses within this program can provide students with knowledge about both the science of genetic counseling and the techniques for providing counseling services to clients in need. Courses found in this program may include Genomics in Human Health, Intro to Behavioral Genetics, and Psychosocial Issues in Genetic Counseling.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro — Master of Science Program in Genetic Counseling
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro is a competitive option for students seeking a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. This program lasts 21 months for enrolled learners and consists of advanced topics related to genomics and counseling theory. In order to provide learners with the best possible experience, this program allows students to participate in clinical observations and rotations throughout the duration of the program. Courses in the program that accompany this experience include Medical and Clinical Genetics, Principles of Genetic Counseling, and Molecular Diagnostics.
University of Nebraska Medical Center — Genetic Counseling Education Program
Students seeking a Master of Genetic Counseling can review programs like the one offered by the University of Nebraska Medical Center. This program has a 62-credit-hour requirement that is spread over 21 months. The first semester of this program consists of courses like Human Genetics and Cytogenetics Principles, while the second semester provides access to courses such as Research Design and Clinical Cancer Genetics. In the second year, students may participate in clinical rotations as well as begin their capstone project that is required for graduation.
Rutgers University — Genetic Counseling Master’s Program
The Genetic Counseling Master’s Program at Rutgers University can be an exciting degree choice for students intrigued by both the science and counseling aspects of this field. Rutgers offers a 22-month program that includes in-depth coursework and clinical rotations. Students typically begin their on-site experience with observations that then transform into rotations within the later semesters. The courses that students may be responsible for taking include Medical Genetics, Loss Across the Lifespan, and Principles of Epidemiology.
Kean University — Genetic Counseling Graduate Program
The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling available at Kean University can provide students with an in-depth understanding of genomics and the related counseling techniques required in genetic counseling. This program has a total of four semesters, with clinical rotations and observations being included beginning in the second year. In addition to rotations, students may also participate in a counseling practicum to assist in obtaining skills within this specialized area. The courses in this program include Counseling Skills, Human Cytogenetics, and Bioinformatics and Clinical Applications.
Columbia University — Genetic Counseling Graduate Program
Columbia University’s Genetic Counseling Graduate Program combines clinical medicine and the art of humanism for a perfect combination of skills. Their accredited genetic counseling master’s program can be completed in 21 months at full-time enrollment and includes fieldwork at each learning level. Students in this program can learn more about the fascinating field of genetic counseling through courses like Reproductive Genetics, Foundations of Counseling Skills, and Clinical Encounters. Each of these courses can provide students with the knowledge needed to successfully engage in rotations prior to working in the field.
Long Island University (LIU) Post — Genetic Counseling Graduate Program
Long Island University Post currently has a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program available to incoming students. This program includes one seven-week clinical rotation between years one and two, and three 10-week rotations during the second year. These experiences can provide students with the hands-on experience needed before entering into the field. In addition to the in-person learning experiences, students also participate in courses like Clinical Genetics in Practice, Cytogenetics, and Cancer Genetics and Genetic Counseling.
Mount Sinai School of Medicine — Master of Science Program in Genetic Counseling
The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling offered by the Mount Sinai School of Medicine provides an intense learning experience both inside and outside of the classroom. This program begins with an advanced curriculum that includes classes like Biostatistics for Biomedical Research, Structures of Embryology, and Medical Genetics. The two-year program also includes clinical observations that lead to clinical rotations in later semesters. Students can expect to observe clinical genetic counseling sessions during these in-person experiences that then lead to the application of various counseling skills toward the end of the program.
Sarah Lawrence College — Joan H. Marks Graduate Program in Human Genetics
Sarah Lawrence College currently offers a Master of Science in Human Genetics to learners interested in engaging in a scientific and humanistic program. This two-year program begins by providing students with courses covering many of the topics in this field, like Pathophysiology, Clinical Genomics, and Clinical Pediatric Genetics. During the first year, students can participate in 100 hours of disability service learning rotations and 100 hours of clinical rotations. During the summer and second year, students will participate in a total of 800 hours of clinical rotations alongside the advanced courses in their curriculum.
Case Western Reserve University — Genetic Counseling Training Program
Case Western Reserve University currently offers learners two accredited genetic counseling programs to consider. Students can choose the Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program or the Master of Science in Genetic Counseling and Master of Arts in Bioethics dual degree program. The first program consists of two years of coursework and practice in the field of genetic counseling for an optimum learning experience for enrolled learners. This program provides students with access to four eight-week clinical rotations, one three-week laboratory rotation, and one six-week summer clinical rotation. Courses in this program include Biochemical Genetics, Molecular Genetics, and Cytogenetics.
Ohio State University — Genetic Counseling Graduate Program
Ohio State University offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling for incoming students interested in gaining both the research-oriented and the hands-on skills used in this field. Most students enrolled in this program can graduate within two years after completing all required courses and clinical rotations. The courses in this program include Advanced Genetic Counseling, Health Sciences Research, and the Business of Genetics. The clinical practicum requirement begins in the first year, with expanding practicum options in the summer and second year.
University of Cincinnati College of Medicine — Genetic Counseling Program
The accredited genetic counseling graduate program at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine can be an excellent degree option for students seeking a challenging and fulfilling learning experience. Clinical rotations in this program begin within the first six weeks and are five weeks in length. Students can also participate in research/theses projects to help strengthen their skills in independent analysis and research. This entire program can be completed in around two years and includes courses like Clinical Embryology, Principles of Molecular and Cellular Biology, and Human Genetics.
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center — Master of Science in Genetic Counseling
The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling available through the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center was developed in an effort to train knowledgeable and trained genetic counseling professionals. This option is a full-time, two-year program that includes both in-person rotation experiences and in-depth classroom learning and research. Rotations may take place in prenatal, cancer, metabolic, and laboratory settings to provide students with the best learning experience. While working through this program, students may take classes like Systems Disorders for Genetic Counseling, Human Population Genetics, and Psychosocial Aspects of Genetic Counseling.
Thomas Jefferson University — Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling
Thomas Jefferson University offers students a Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling program that can prepare them for meeting their career goals. This program is two years in length and can include both classroom and in-person experiences. During the first year of the program, students can participate in laboratory experiences and observations in preparation for future clinical rotations. These rotations begin in the summer after the first year and continue through the end of the program. Courses listed in this program include Human Genetics, Medical Genetics, and Clinical Cancer Genetics.
University of Pennsylvania — Master of Science in Genetic Counseling
The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program currently offered by the University of Pennsylvania is a two-year program that includes learning in laboratory work, clinical medicine, counseling, and independent research. This program also teaches students through the use of internships, seminars, advocacy experiences, and genetic counseling rounds in actual medical settings. During the first year, students can take courses such as Mechanism of Diseases, Reproductive and Developmental Genetics, and Cancer Genetics. In the second year, students may begin working on their master’s thesis alongside the required coursework at this level.
University of Pittsburgh — Genetic Counseling Program
Students on the hunt for a reliable and high-quality accredited genetic counseling program can seek out the Master of Science in Genetic Counseling at the University of Pittsburgh. This program seeks to educate learners on the blended sciences of both genetics and counseling in order to prepare them to provide in-demand services to clients in the clinical setting. During this program, students can engage in clinical rotations that include 150 to 200 client cases throughout the program duration. This hands-on practice can provide students with the skills needed to confidently enter the field after graduation. Students may also take courses like the Principles of Epidemiology, Molecular Basis of Human Inherited Disease, and Genetic Techniques.
University of South Carolina — Genetic Counseling Program
The University of South Carolina offers a Genetic Counseling Program for upcoming learners interested in becoming experienced and knowledgeable genetic counselors in the field. This program consists of 56 credit hours including 42 credit hours of classroom study, eight credit hours of clinical rotations, and 6 hours of preparation toward a master’s thesis. The clinical rotations required for this program begin in the second year and continue through graduation. Courses listed in this program include Human Developmental Biology, Medical Genetics, and the Genetic Counseling Process.
Augustana University — Augustana-Sanford Genetic Counseling Graduate Program
Students looking for a reliable and in-depth Master of Science in Genetic Counseling can look to Augustana University’s program. This 21-month, full-time program can provide learners with exceptional clinical experiences and classroom learning opportunities to help strengthen their abilities in the field of genetic counseling. Clinical patient interactions begin within the first semester of this program, with the second year being the most focused on the clinical aspect of this training. While enrolled in this program, students can expect to take courses like Communication and Interviewing Skills for the Genetic Counselor, Metabolic Genetics and Newborn Screening, and Genomics and Business.
Vanderbilt University — Master of Genetic Counseling Program
At Vanderbilt University, students can pursue a Master of Genetic Counseling through this university’s rigorous and inclusive training program. Beginning in the first semester of this program, students can participate in courses like Human Development, Medical Genetics, and Clinical Reflection and Self-Awareness. Clinical rotations begin in the second semester and continue throughout the duration of the program. In addition to these experiences, students can participate in laboratory courses and advanced classes like Genomics in Public Health and Applied Genetic Counseling Theory to help better shape their understanding of practice in this field.
Baylor College of Medicine — Master of Science in Genetic Counseling
Baylor College of Medicine has created an intensive and in-depth accredited genetic counseling master’s program for motivated learners preparing for careers in the field. This program can be completed in around 21 months and can include 31 credit hours of coursework within the first year, 19 hours of coursework in the second year, eight hours of thesis work, and seven credit hours of clinical rotations throughout the program. As students begin this program, they may engage in courses like Embryology, Human Behavioral Counseling, Research Methods in Genetic Counseling, and Ethical and Legal Issues in Human Genetics.
University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston — Program in Genetic Counseling
The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling that features in-person classroom learning and intense clinical experiences. The clinical rotations required in this program begin within the first year but become the main focus of training during the second year. This program seeks to blend both the scientific aspects of genomics with the art and science of psychosocial counseling. While in this program, students can expect to engage in courses like Contemporary Issues in Genetic Counseling, Prenatal Genetic Counseling, and Biomedical Ethics for the Genetic Counselor. The combination of classroom learning and clinical experience can fully prepare students for entering the field after graduation.
University of Utah — Graduate Program in Genetic Counseling
The University of Utah currently offers an innovative Graduate Program in Genetic Counseling to curious and motivated learners. This two-year program includes both traditional and hybrid courses to allow students the flexibility of learning at their own pace while staying full time in the program. Clinical rotations within this program are first introduced in the summer semester following the first year of the program and can continue during the second and final year. Courses that students can take during this program include Principles of Genetic Counseling, Clinical Epidemiology, Multicultural Counseling, and Genomics.
Virginia Commonwealth University — Genetic Counseling Program
The Department of Human and Molecular Genetics at Virginia Commonwealth University has designed a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling that prepares students to enter this emerging scientific field. The program was designed to align with the requirements of the American Board of Genetic Counseling and includes coursework specific to the scientific applications of genetic counseling and clinical practice. Students enrolled in this program can participate in supervised clinical experiences beginning midway through the program and continue them until the program is complete. Coursework in this program covers topics such as human genetics, medical genetics, and ethical considerations for counselors in this field.
University of Wisconsin-Madison — Genetic Counseling Master’s Program
Website
The Master of Genetic Counselor Studies offered through the University of Wisconsin at Madison can be an excellent choice for learners seeking a high-quality and reliable degree program. This program consists of 21 months of intensive courses in genetic counseling and supervised clinical practice to help strengthen student abilities in the field. The first year of this program consists of four seven-week clinical rotations, a laboratory course, and a public health rotation alongside required coursework. During the second year, students can participate in three 10-week rotations throughout the summer and final two semesters. Courses that are included in the curriculum are Cancer Genetics Risk Assessment and Counseling, Clinical Embryology and Prenatal Diagnosis, and Advanced Clinical Genetics Concepts.
Sources:
Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling, About Accreditation
Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling, Program Directory
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Genetic Counseling
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Genetic Counselors
