Genetic Counseling Training

Find out the answers the questions you may have about becoming a genetic counselor with these Frequently Asked Questions by prospective students. 

Preparing for Graduate School

• Simulated Genetic Counseling Sessions
• Genetic Counseling Training Programs
• Applying

Learn More about Genetic Counseling: View Simulated Genetic Counseling Sessions

To discover what occurs during a typical genetic counseling session, please view the Master Genetic Counselor Series , a grouping of specially designed digital recordings of simulated genetic counseling sessions in the specialty areas of cancer genetic counseling, cardiology genetic counseling, and prenatal genetic counseling.

The Master Genetic Counseling Series is made possible through the generous support of the Jane Engelberg Memorial Fellowship.

Exploring Genetic Counseling Training Programs

In order to become a Certified Genetic Counselor by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) , one must obtain a Master's degree in Genetic Counseling from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC) . There are currently 34 colleges and universities across the United States and Canada with master's degree programs in genetic counseling.

For a full list of programs, please visit ACGC's Genetic Counseling Training Program Directory . 

How to Choose a Program

There are many factors to consider when choosing a genetic counseling training program. These include location, class size, affiliation with a university, medical school, or hospital, clinical rotation sites, travel, housing, work opportunities, and cost. 

Please contact the individual programs for specific admission requirements, funding and/or scholarship information.

Applying to a Genetic Counseling Training Program

Application Requirements

Contact each program individually in order to determine the exact requirements needed to complete an application including transcripts, test scores, advocacy experiences, a written statement, and letters of recommendation.  Additional information about admission to genetic counseling training programs is available throught the Association of Genetic Counseling Program Directors.