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Programs

Genetic Counseling

The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling (MSGC) is a full-time program that prepares students for careers as genetic counselors.

Genetic counselors are essential players in the health care team. They possess the unique skills and knowledge necessary to support individuals and families in understanding and adapting to the medical and psychological implications of genetic conditions. The genetic counseling training program in the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry prepares students for a range of career opportunities available to genetic counselors.

The program is 21 months (five semesters) and is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC).

Information about faculty and research can be found on the Genetic Counseling website.

AdmissionsLink to section

Applying to Master's ProgramsLink to section

MSGC program applicants must submit their applications online directly to the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry through Application Management. MSGC program applicants are also required to separately register with the Genetic Counseling Admissions Match through National Matching Services (NMS): GC Admissions Match. NMS provides each applicant with a unique code number for the upcoming match. The Admissions Match enhances the placement of applicants into positions in master’s-level genetic counseling programs that are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC).

Application deadlines and other important dates are available on the MSGC program website.

Application requirements include:

  • Baccalaureate degree, or its equivalent, from an accredited institution
  • Prerequisite courses, including a minimum of one semester/quarter each of: biochemistry, biology, genetics, organic chemistry, psychology, and statistics
  • Transcript (For applicants who have earned a degree from a non-U.S. institution, an independent course-by-course credential evaluation from a NACES-approved evaluator is also required. If a bachelor’s degree is from a non-US institution, the credential evaluation must document equivalency of a U.S. baccalaureate degree or higher.)
  • GPA of 3.0 or above (strongly recommended)
  • Statement of purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation (the program does not accept references submitted via Interfolio)
  • Resume or CV
  • Exposure to genetic counseling profession
  • Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency. Official scores must be within two years of the original test date.
  • Personal interview (held virtually)

AcademicsLink to section

RequirementsLink to section

MSGC program components include didactic courses, clinical/fieldwork training, thesis research projects, and supplemental learning experiences. As students progress through the program, they develop and demonstrate achievement of a wide range of critical genetic counseling skills and competencies. Student achievement of the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC) practice-based competencies (PBCs) are evaluated throughout the program.

Students must successfully complete all of the following for the master’s degree to be granted:

  • All required didactic courses (42 credits)
  • Five clinical/fieldwork rotations (15 credits)
  • An acceptable master’s research project (6 credits)
  • Participation in required supplemental learning activities

Graduate Course TitlesLink to section

  • GNC 420: Foundations in Medical Genetics
  • GNC 403: Embryology and Reproductive Genetics
  • GNC 430: Foundations of Genetic Counseling
  • GNC 410: Genetics Bioethics
  • GNC 470: Genetic Counseling Research: Data Collection and Analysis Methodologies
  • GNC 520: Molecules to Cells (MTC)
  • GNC 497: Genetic Counseling in Clinical Practice
  • GNC 447: Client-Centered Genetic Counseling
  • GNC 465: Medical Genetics by Subspecialty
  • GNC 491-493: Master’s Thesis I-III
  • GNC 501-505: Clinical Rotation/Fieldwork I-V
  • GNC 467: Professional Issues in Genetic Counseling
  • GNC 494: Special Topics in Clinical Genetics
  • NSG 429: Diversity and Equity in Health Care
  • GNC 511: Genetic Counseling Case Seminar I
  • GNC 512: Genetic Counseling Case Seminar II
  • GNC 500: Biopsychosocial Family Experiences with Genetic Conditions