Thanks to the popularity of DNA testing services like 23andMe and growing interest in genealogy, demand for genetic counselors is on the rise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of openings for genetic counselors could increase by 26% between 2020 and 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
What to Look For in a Genetic Counseling Program
Genetic counselors typically spend a total of six years in higher education, which includes completing both a bachelor's and a master's degree.
Genetic counseling curricula comprises medical and molecular genetics, research, and psychology courses. Most master's degrees can be completed in two years of full-time study.
It can be difficult to determine which genetic counseling program is best for you. Consider the following factors when selecting a program.
Accreditation
The universally recognized accrediting body in the field of genetic counseling is the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC). Verifying that your program holds current accreditation from this organization is essential if you live in a state that requires licensure for genetic counselors.
Clinical Opportunities
You should also investigate a program's track record in connecting students with clinical opportunities. The experiences you have outside the classroom can help you build your network, determine your specialty, and shape the direction of your career. Some states may even require clinical experiences to gain licensure.
Cost
Tuition for genetic counseling programs can range from $10,000 to more than $40,000 per year. The sticker price of some programs can be intimidating, but don't let it deter you if it meets your other requirements. You may be surprised at the financial aid available to you.
Financial Aid
Federal loans are available by completing the FAFSA, but schools also offer scholarships, work studies opportunities, and teaching assistantships to help students finance their education. Make sure to research your financial aid options before deciding on a program.
Staff-to-Student-Ratio
Programs with low staff-to-student ratios, an indication of small class sizes, enable students to make personal connections with peers and professors. Having a solid professional network is important when looking for employment post-graduation.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary, but most genetic counseling graduate programs require a bachelor's degree, academic transcripts, and completion of certain prerequisite courses. Many programs also require letters of recommendation, a personal statement or essay, and competition of the GRE or another standardized exam.
Practical Requirements
Requirements for genetic counselors vary by state. At present, not all states issue licenses in genetic counseling. But an increasing number are moving towards adopting board certification as a requirement. Even in states that don't offer licensure, most employers prefer to hire genetic counselors that are certified in the field.
Candidates who plan to pursue certification need a master's degree in genetic counseling accredited by the ACGC. Some states also require a certain amount of supervised hours, fulfilled by clinical experiences. Most states also require genetic counselors to complete a specific number of continuing education credits to maintain an active certification.
Career Relevance
Almost half of all genetic counselors work in hospitals, but they can also work in labs, health maintenance organizations, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.
The median salary of genetic counselors was $85,700 as of May 2020, according to the BLS. The lowest 10% earned less than $67,000, and the highest 10% earned more than $126,000. Those who worked in medical and diagnostic labs earned the highest median annual wage.
Genetic counselors often collaborate with dietitians, obstetricians, oncologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive comprehensive information about their health.
Many genetic counselors specialize in a certain area, such as prenatal, pediatric, neurological, or cancer genetics.
Best Genetic Counseling Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a genetic counselor and a geneticist?
Clinical geneticists or medical geneticists are physicians who hold medical degrees, requiring more time in higher education than genetic counseling.
Do genetic counselors perform tests?
Genetic counselors do not perform tests. Rather, they can tell you which tests could be useful to take and help you understand the test results.
Can you get a master's degree in genetic counseling online?
Yes. There are programs hosted mostly online, but they usually require students to come to campus a few times a year.
