Ideally, students will begin the program with a strong and up-to-date
foundation in human genetics and counseling. This is often obtained
through coursework representing these disciplines, as well as the social
and life sciences that contribute to the genetic counseling field (e.g.
biology, biochemistry, psychology, statistics, etc). However,
applicants may also gain some of this important exposure through other
academic or professional experiences.
Competitive applicants will also be able to demonstrate a clear and
insightful understanding of the genetic counseling profession and,
ideally, will have had an opportunity to shadow or work with genetic
counselors in the field. However, we recognize that it can be very
difficult to arrange such experiences, in which case applicants are
encouraged to meet or speak with local genetic counselors, attend online
or in-person genetic counseling seminars, courses, summer camps,
journal clubs, or workshops, and watch the NSGC’s Master Genetic
Counselor Series. Other ways to enhance one’s preparation for the
genetic counseling field include:
- Counseling experience (often including training and supervision) in a
peer counseling setting, a crisis or suicide hotline, a domestic
violence shelter or hotline, a text hotline, or a pregnancy counseling
center
- Teaching and/or tutoring experience
- Research experience
- Experience in medical settings and/or with individuals with disabilities