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Program Requirements

The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program accepts students on a full-time basis only. The first year of the program involves a combination of coursework, professional activities and clinical activities. In addition to rigorous classroom training, students have one dedicated professional observation day per week. This day consists of varied experiences, including, but not limited to, observation in the following areas: cytogenetics lab, inpatient and outpatient medical clinics, surgical/medical procedural clinics, molecular genetics labs, and a newborn screening lab. Additionally, students will interact with genetic counselors practicing in the field. In their first year, students will complete one small project involving creation of patient/community educational materials. Additionally, seminars and journal clubs are offered to complete the educational experience.

The second year of training is largely focused on clinical training, but also involves some coursework. Clinical training begins in the summer after completion of the first academic year and involves rotations in five different clinics. Clinical rotations will occur in prenatal, pediatrics, oncology, neurology and other medical clinics. We strongly encourage students to pursue one clinical rotation at an “away” site, for the sake of exposure to training in a different geographical region.

The purpose of the required research thesis is to expose students to the clinical genetics research process. Students may engage in a variety of research areas, including psychosocial issues, legal/ethical issues, clinical care, or basic science issues. Students will be required to submit their research to the Journal of Genetic Counseling or another medical journal, though acceptance of the article is not a requirement for graduation. In their last semester, students will attend the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) National Conference. Part of the cost for attending the conference will be covered by the program.

First Year Classes:

Biochemical Genetics Cytogenetics Design and Analysis in Genetics Research
Genetic Counseling I
Genetic Counseling II
Genetic Counseling Pre-Practicum
Human Development
Human Genetics
Issues Confronting Genetic Counselors
Molecular Genetics
Pathophysiology

Additional First Year Activities:

Professional day
Journal club
Seminars
Educational project

Summer Between First and Second Years:

Clinical Rotation

Second Year Classes:

Clinical Rotations
Genetic Counseling III
Genetic Counseling IV
Genetic Counseling Practicum
Thesis
Topics in Adult Genetic Counseling

Additional Second Year Activities:

Journal club
Seminars
NSGC conference