Pre-Genetic Counseling
Welcome to pre-genetic counseling! We are excited that you have your sights set on becoming a genetic counselor. You have a long road ahead of you but we are here to help. We will provide information and support as you take the pre-requisite courses up until you start the application and testing process.
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Most master programs in genetic counseling require the following courses in addition to a bachelor’s degree in any subject:
- General Biology I and II and labs
- Biochemistry I
- Genetics
- Introduction to Psychology
- Introduction to Statistics
- Although not specifically required by most programs, General Chemistry I and II and Organic Chemistry I are required for most biochemistry courses. Some schools may also require additional courses in science, math and and/or behavioral sciences. It is important that you research the requirements for those schools in which you are interested. Your pre-health advisor can help you with this research.
- Specific requirements for some area schools can be found at the following links:
There are 36 accredited Genetic Counseling programs in the United States and 3 accredited programs in Canada. The Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling maintains a detailed list of programs. (link for Accreditation Council: http://gc³ÉÈ˿첥.org/Pages/Accredited-Programs.aspx)
- Many U.S. genetic counseling master’s programs welcome international applicants.
- International students may be required to demonstrate English language proficiency as a condition of their admission.
- In order to receive financial aid students must be a permanent resident or citizen of the U.S. Many genetic counseling programs, that do accept foreign applicants, require that students prove the ability to finance all years of their master ³ÉÈ˿첥 prior to matriculation.
- If undergraduate courses are taken at a college or university outside of Canada or the U.S., student is responsible for getting their course work verified by a credentialing evaluation service.