Genetic counseling is a rapidly growing field, and the demand for genetic counselors is on the rise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the projected growth of genetic counseling jobs is 21 percent through 2029. Are you exploring options in masters in genetic counseling? We have outlined some of the best and affordable master’s degree programs here, both online and campus-based. If you are interested in working with people to understand how their genetic makeup may impact their lives, this is the right choice.
Genetic counselors are healthcare professionals who empower others through genetic counseling. They work with patients and their families to educate them about family health history and genetic testing. They use resources and research to teach them about the management and prevention of genetic conditions.
A master’s in genetic counseling is a multifaceted program. It teaches students to provide disease risk assessment. by studying family health history. Students learn how to provide counseling and psychosocial support to individuals and their families. They help them make informed choices and adaptation to risks or conditions.
Most master’s in genetic counseling programs offer students multiple choices of specialization.
- Clinical – Prenatal: where they provide genetic counseling services to pregnant women
- Clinical – Pediatric: Providing genetic counseling services to parents, families, children, and teens
- Clinical – Adult: Providing counseling services to individuals with medical and congenital conditions. Helping people with a family history of conditions like cancer, cardiovascular illness
- Cancer genetic counseling: Helping individuals determine if they have inherited an increased risk for cancer
Genetic counselors work in various clinical, laboratory, and research settings. Genetic testing and lab work is an integral part of the process, so they are extensively covered in the curriculum. Public Health is another critical area. Graduates focus on developing public policy related to genetics and improving public access to genetics services.
Here we have shortlisted the top 25 schools that offer a master of genetic counseling degrees. These are offered in the traditional as well as hybrid and online formats. We have considered the schools’ accreditation, rankings, faculty, tuition, and curricula. Schools have been ranked based on the affordability of their programs.
Rating and Ranking Methodology
Tuition
- Net Price Below $10,000: 4 points
- Net Price Below $15,000: 3 points
- Net Price Below $18,000: 2 points
- Net Price Below $20,000: 1 point
Program Flexibility (asynchronous course delivery, hybrid options, part-time/full-time schedule, etc. ) – 1 point per item
Online Student Support Network (faculty mentors/advisors, etc.)— 1 point per item
Accreditation (School-Wide and Program-Specific) – 1 point per item
“Wow” Factor – 1 point.
#25 Boston University
Boston, MA
MS in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 5
Boston University offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. It educates graduate students in the core concepts of human genetics and counseling. The high-quality coursework includes:
- General genetics; Counseling skills
- Clinical, laboratory; Research
- Advocacy experiences; Capstone Project
- Advanced topics in medical genetics
- Professional issues;
- Genetic counseling sub-specialties
It blends dynamic coursework, dedicated mentoring, diverse fieldwork, and innovative learning experiences. The goal is to develop motivated genetic counselors to meet the increasing needs in genetics and genomics.
Fast facts:
- 48 credits
- Offered through: School of Medicine
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition per year: $56,854
#24 Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, OH
MS in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 6
Case Western Reserve University offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. The program combines coursework, laboratory exposure, research experience, and extensive clinical training.
Courses include:
- Embryology
- Medical genetics; Biochemical genetics
- Molecular genetics
- Cytogenetics; Genomics
- Cancer genetics; Population genetics
- Genetic counseling principles
- Human development; Psychosocial issues
The comprehensive curriculum provides integrating foundational principles of genetics and bioethics. Graduates have a 98.8% pass rate on the ABGC certification examination.
Fast facts:
- 40 credits
- Offered through: School of Medicine
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $1,997
#23 University of Minnesota
St Paul, MN
MS in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 6
The University of Minnesota offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. Students get the academic expertise and clinical skills necessary for the profession of Genetic Counseling. The curriculum includes:
- Medical Genetics/Biochem
- Genetics & Genomics in Human Health
- Genetic Counseling in Practice
- Reproduction: Law and Ethics
- Health Sciences Applied Terminology
- Psychosocial Issues in Genetic Counseling
Upon graduation, all graduates will be eligible to apply to the ABGC for active candidate status.
Fast facts:
- 58 credits
- Offered through: College of Biological Sciences
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $1,465
#22 LIU Post-Long Island University
Brookville, NY
MS in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 7
LIU Post offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. It provides students with the knowledge, skill, and experience to succeed. The comprehensive training emphasizes the scientific, clinical, and psychosocial aspects of genetic counseling. Coursework includes:
- Cytogenetics; Molecular Genetics
- Human Development; Pathophysiology
- Cancer Genetics and Genetic Counseling
- Design and Analysis in Genetics Research
- Clinical Genetics; Biochemical Genetics
- Clinical Applications of Genomic Medicine
In their second to last semester, all students attend the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) Annual Conference.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $1274
#21 Brandeis University
Waltham, MA
MS in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 7
Brandeis University offers a Master of Science (M.S.) in Genetic Counseling Program. It provides challenging coursework, close mentoring, and varied experiences in the field. Program outcomes include:
- A strong knowledge base in human and molecular genetics and genomics
- Developing critical thinking and communication skills
- Supporting individuals and families from diverse backgrounds who impacted by genetic conditions
- Addressing the social, legal, and ethical issues surrounding genetic testing and counseling
Graduates are prepared to sit for the American Board of Genetic Counseling’s Certification exam.
Fast facts:
- 64 credits
- Offered through: Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per year: $37,638
#20 Bay Path University
Longmeadow, MA
MS in Genetic Counseling Online
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Points: 7
Bay Path University offers an online Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. Though it’s an online program, it does require 2-3 campus sessions twice a year.
The first-year coursework includes:
- General genetics and counseling skills
- Clinical, laboratory, research, and community experiences
- A capstone project topic
The second-year coursework includes:
- Clinical experience and capstone project development
- Advanced topics in counseling techniques, medical genetics, professional issues
- Genetic counseling sub-specialties
Students enjoy a personalized learning experience. They learn to work in interdisciplinary teams effectively.
Fast facts:
- 59 credits
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition per credit: $1,135
#19 University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA
MS in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 7
The University of Pittsburgh offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. Students gain the knowledge and skills to practice as genetic counselors in diverse settings. The curriculum blends cutting edge training with the development of practice-based competencies. The coursework includes:
- Counseling theory and application
- Methods of genetic testing
- Use of the genetic literature
- Biostatistics and research methods
Students have the opportunity to obtain a dual degree, earning both an MS in Genetic Counseling and an MPH in public health genetics.
Fast facts:
- 62 credits
- Offered through: Graduate School of Public Health
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition per credit: $1,122
#18 Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, PA
Master’s in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 8
Thomas Jefferson University offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. It integrates education and training for students to become compassionate and knowledgeable genetic counselors. The curriculum includes:
- Human Genetics; Medical Genetics
- Embryology; Pathobiology of Cancer
- Clinical Cancer Genetics; Medical Genetics
- Psychosocial Issues in Genetic Counseling
- Ocular Genetics; Metabolic Genetics
- Gene-Environment Interactions in Birth Defects & Disease
- Genetic Basis of Neurologic & Psychiatric Disease
A rich clinical and health science environment gives students a competitive advantage.
Fast facts:
- 63 credits
- Offered through: College of Life Sciences
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
- Tuition per year: $33,300
#17 University of Maryland
Baltimore, MD
Master’s in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 8
The University of Maryland offers a Master’s in Genetic Counseling Training Program. It addresses the growing need for clinically oriented genetics professionals. Students gain a thorough understanding of the complex issues inherent in this field. The curriculum includes:
- Human Genetics; Clinical Genetics
- Genetic Counseling
- Clinical Cancer Genetics Research for Genetics Students
- Advanced Topics in Genetic Counseling
- Psychosocial Genetic Counseling
Graduates are eligible for board certification by the American Board of Genetic Counseling.
Fast facts:
- 40 credits
- Offered through: School of Medicine
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE); CEPH;
- Tuition per semester: $ 9,965.25
#16 Boise State University
Boise, ID
MS in Genetic Counseling Online
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Points: 8
Boise State University offers an online Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. It teaches students to apply counseling skills in human genetics to patient care. They gain knowledge of established and evolving medical and clinical genetics. Coursework includes:
- Principles of human genetics
- Clinical genetics; Public health
- Bioethics; Counseling techniques
- Research methodology; Epidemiology
- Facilitating decision-making, risk assessment skills
- Calculations, statistics, wellness, and self-care
Students are prepared to sit for the ABGC board examination in their respective states.
Fast facts:
- 56 credits
- Offered through: College of Health Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Tuition: $54,992
#15 Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
New Brunswick, NJ
Master’s in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 9
Rutgers offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. The 22-month program involves rigorous coursework, clinical rotations, and a Master’s research project. It is designed for students wishing to pursue a career in the growing and exciting genetic counseling field. The curriculum includes:
- Principles of Epidemiology; Human Genetics
- Clinical Cancer Genetic Counseling
- Medical Genetics; Counseling Techniques for Genetic Counselors
- Loss Across the Lifespan
- Genetic Counseling in the 21st Century
The innovative and interdisciplinary training prepares students well for the evolving field of genetic counseling.
Featured Programs
Fast facts:
- 58 credits
- Offered through: School of Arts & Sciences
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Tuition: $44,000
#14 University of Colorado
Denver, CO
MS in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 9
The University of Colorado offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. The curriculum combines scientific, clinical, psychosocial, and professional practice aspects of genetic counseling. Students get hands-on clinical experience in pediatric, prenatal, adult, and specialty genetics clinics. Topics covered:
- Mendelian and non-Mendelian inheritance
- Population and quantitative genetics
- Human variation and disease susceptibility
- Prenatal; Pediatric; Adult; Cancer; Cardiovascular; Biochemical and Molecular genetics
- Personalized genomic medicine; Cytogenetics
- Embryology/Teratology/Developmental genetics
- Neurogenetics; Pharmacogenetics; Psychiatric genetics
Graduates emerge as competent and effective health professionals.
Fast facts:
- 47 credits
- Offered through: Anschutz Medical Campus
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per credit: $678
#13 University of South Carolina
Columbia, SC
Master’s in Genetic Counseling Online
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Points: 9
The University of South Carolina offers an online Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. Students explore the clinical, laboratory, and research roles within the field. The program blends contemporary genetic counseling with fieldwork experience and service-learning opportunities.
Coursework includes:
- The Genetic Counseling Process
- Medical Genetics; Human Developmental Biology
- Contemporary Issues in Genetic Counseling
- Psychosocial Aspects of Genetic Counseling
- Cancer Genetics and Genetic Counseling
- Molecular and Genetic Mechanisms of Disease Pathogenesis
Students often specialize in one of these areas: prenatal, pediatric, cancer, and adult.
Fast facts:
- 56 credits
- Offered through: School of Medicine
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition per credit: $$34,477
#12 Wayne State University
Detroit, MI
MS in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 10
Wayne State University offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. The program provides a solid foundation in scientific knowledge and counseling skills. It combines molecular medicine, genetics research, and patient care activities. The curriculum includes:
- Principles of Genetic Counseling
- Human Development and Teratology Seminar
- Epidemiology; Biostatistics
- Medical Genetics Grand Rounds
- Theory & Practice of Genetic Counseling
- Practical Applications of Genetic Counseling
- Introduction to Medical Genetics; Advanced Human Genetics
Students get a strong foundation in genomics and rich clinical experiences to prepare for future practice.
Fast facts:
- 47 credits
- Offered through: School of Medicine
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per year: 13,922
#11 University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL
Master’s in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 10
The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. The program combines classroom and clinical experiences in pediatric, prenatal, cancer, and other specialties. The curriculum includes:
- Genetics in Medicine; Genetic Counseling Journal Club
- Advanced Medical Genetics and Genomics
- Prenatal Genetics, Embryology, and Teratology
- Principles of Cancer and Adult Genetics and Counseling
- Theory and Practice of Genetic Counseling
Students train to help patients and families who are coping with the risk of genetic disease. They are also prepared to work with companies, research teams, and patient advocacy groups.
Fast facts:
- 58 credits
- Offered through: School of Health Professions
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $572
#10 California State University, Stanislaus
Turlock, CA
MS in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 11
California State University, Stanislaus offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. It balances rigorous academic coursework, direct clinical experiences, and independent research. The curriculum includes a structured sequence of courses, clinical rotations, and seminars, occurring over two years. The program offers:
- A thorough understanding of the scientific principles governing genetic disorders
- Counseling techniques to be employed during internships in the second year
- Seminars taught by a wide range of medical professionals
- Continued emphasis on social, legal, and ethical issues in the field
Graduates prepare to excel in the dynamic field of genetic counseling.
Fast facts:
- 36 units
- Offered through: A unique collaboration between California State University-Stanislaus, University of California San Francisco, and Kaiser Permanente
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
- Tuition per year: $9,018
#9 Indiana State University
Terre Haute, IN
MS in Genetic Counseling Online
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Points: 11
Indiana State University offers a hybrid Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. The first year of the program is on campus, and the second year consists of online courses. The two-year program offers training in all aspects of medical genetics and basic psychological counseling. It blends classroom, laboratory, and a variety of hands-on clinical experiences to provide comprehensive learning. Students can customize their degree to prepare for the career they desire. The clinical rotations include:
- Pediatric
- Prenatal
- Adult
Students gain technical knowledge and skills in genetics, genomics, and psychological counseling.
Fast facts:
- 62 credits
- Offered through: College of Arts & Sciences
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition per credit: $426
#8 Indiana University
Indianapolis, IN
MS in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 12
Indiana University offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. The 21-month program provides comprehensive training and hands-on clinical experience in genetic counseling. Students learn genetics, laboratory, and psychosocial topics. They also conduct extensive clinical experience and individual clinical research. The curriculum includes:
- Principles of human, clinical, biochemical, and molecular genetics
- Embryology and dysmorphology
- Laboratory and clinical research skills
- Cytogenetics and cancer genetics
The study includes cancer, prenatal, cardiovascular, pediatric genetics, public health genomics, and industry. Graduates have a strong record of success on the American Board of Genetic Counseling, Inc. (ABGC) board examination.
Fast facts:
- 47 credits
- Offered through: School of Medicine
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; The Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $21,350
#7 Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
Master’s in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 12
Virginia Commonwealth University offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. The program blends clinical experience and formal clinical rotations, both on-campus and off-campus rotations. The curriculum includes:
- Intro to Human Genetics
- Practice of Genetic Counseling
- Techniques in Genetic Counseling
- Human Embryology
- Advanced Human Genetics; Medical Genetics
- Process in Genetic Counseling; Cancer
Graduates are eligible for board certification by the American Board of Genetic Counseling. VCU Graduates hold leadership positions in the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) and the ABGC.
Fast facts:
- 60 credits
- Offered through: Department of Human and Molecular Genetics
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per year: $12,618
#6 University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Little Rock, AR
MS in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 13
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. The curriculum includes:
- Counseling Theory and Skills for Genetic Counselors
- Professional Issues in Genetic Counseling
- Medical Genetics; Population Genetics; Cancer Genetics
- Genetic Counseling Ethics; Metabolic Genetics
- System Disorders for the Genetic Counselor
- Human Embryology and Dysmorphology
- Human Cytogenetics; Public Health Genomics
Graduates are eligible for the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) certification examination.
Fast facts:
- 59 credits
- Offered through: College of Medicine
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $22,388
#5 The Ohio State University
Columbus, OH
Master’s in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 13
The Ohio State University offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. It blends course work, counseling skills, and clinical experiences. Key features of the program:
- Provides a foundation in integrated genetic medicine
- Emphasizes sub-disciplines in both the academic classes and thesis mentorship
- Educates individuals to conduct independent research with in-depth specialized knowledge
- Provides a solid educational, technical and experiential foundation for graduate students
- Nurtures and stimulates the research interests and the intellectual advancement of both students
Graduates are eligible for certification by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC).
Fast facts:
- 67 credits
- Offered through: College of Medicine
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition per year: $$12,424
#4 University of South Florida
Tampa, FL
MS in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 14
The University of South Florida (USF) offers a Master of Science (M.S.) in Genetic Counseling Program, the first in the state. It combines training in public health, medical genetics/genomics, and communication and counseling skills. The curriculum includes:
- History and Systems of Public Health; Population Assessment
- Introduction to Genetic Counseling; Applied Clinical Genetics
- Professional Development in Genetic Counseling
- Human Genomics in Medicine and Public Health
- Case Studies & Topics in Medical Genetics
Graduates are prepared to excel in genetic counseling and the emerging field of precision medicine.
Fast facts:
- 42 credits
- Offered through: College of Public Health
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools’ Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $347.91
#3 University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC
Master’s in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 15
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. It is a 21-month full-time program. It blends academic course work with laboratory experience and clinical rotations. Key features of the program:
- Strong mentoring/advising; Interdisciplinary faculty and guest lecturers
- Varied clinical rotations and laboratory experiences
- Professional development opportunities
- Cooperative and shared learning; nGraduate student workshops
- Summer experiences in non-traditional genetic counseling roles
Graduates go on to practice in settings like prenatal, pediatric, adult, and cancer genetics.
Fast facts:
- 58 credits
- Offered through: School of Health and Human Sciences
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition per credit: $258.35
#2 University of California, Irvine
Irvine, CA
MS in Genetic Counseling Online
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Points: 15
The University of California, Irvine, offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. It provides education and professional training in counseling and medical genetics. Students develop the knowledge, skills, and experience to integrate genetic information in counseling. The program covers:
- Genetic counseling practice and theory
- Quantitative genetics; Medical genetics
- Teratology and embryology; Cytogenetics
- Human molecular genetics
- Hereditary cancer counseling
The program is integrated into an active clinical genetics unit. Students learn to apply the skills and knowledge learned through academic coursework in a wide range of clinics.
Fast facts:
- 89 quarter units
- Offered through: School of Medicine
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
- Tuition per year: 11,442
#1 University of Texas
Houston, TX
Master’s in Genetic Counseling
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Points: 16
The University of Texas offers a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling. Students perfect their counseling skills to become competent, empathetic providers of short-term psychosocial counseling. The program blends coursework with standardized patient exams and practice-based seminars. The coursework includes:
- Human genetics; Prenatal genetics
- Cancer genetics; Ethics
- Statistics
- Research methodology
- Developmental biology
Clinical rotations and thesis research feature prominently in the second year of study. Students are trained to work with families to help them understand and cope with complex decisions.
Fast facts:
- 45 credits
- Offered through: Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences
- Format: On-Campus
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling; Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
- Tuition per year: 5160