2 answers
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How to become a genetic counselor?
Lend your expertise: what does it take to become a genetic counselor?
Note: Given the growing interest in the healthcare field, we're inviting our experienced professionals to share their knowledge.
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2 answers
Megan Trinkle-Knotts
Adjunct Faculty/Genetic Counselor
2
Answers
Fishers, Indiana
Updated
Megan’s Answer
I am a certified genetic counselor and have been working with admissions at graduate programs for nearly 10 years. I’d be happy to help. In a nutshell. Someone should complete 1) a bachelors degree typically in something “life science” like biology, psychology, genetics etc.
2) get experience in advocacy/crisis work such as an abuse hotline, domestic violence shelter etc.
3) gain some experience with the field of genetic counseling such as through shadowing or interviewing genetic counselors to get an understanding of the career.
2) get experience in advocacy/crisis work such as an abuse hotline, domestic violence shelter etc.
3) gain some experience with the field of genetic counseling such as through shadowing or interviewing genetic counselors to get an understanding of the career.
Cheri Hall
Physical Therapist
29
Answers
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Updated
Cheri’s Answer
To embark on a career as a genetic counselor, the initial step is to acquire an undergraduate Bachelor's degree. It's crucial to fulfill prerequisites such as courses in genetics, biochemistry, psychology, and statistics. Additionally, prospective candidates are encouraged to volunteer in healthcare environments during their bachelor's studies to familiarize themselves with hospital settings.
Between obtaining your Bachelor's and Master's degrees, consider gaining practical experience by working for a year or two. This can provide valuable exposure to patient advocacy, counseling, and scientific lab work.
The next phase in becoming a genetic counselor involves pursuing a Master's degree from an institution recognized by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC). These programs, usually lasting around two years, encompass:
- Academic instruction in human genetics, psychosocial counseling, bioethics, research methods, genetic testing technology, and more.
- Clinical exposure across various genetic specialties.
- Supplementary activities such as education, advocacy experiences, case conferences, and so on.
After earning your Master's degree, the final step is to pass a certification exam administered by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC). Achieving this certification validates your ability to offer proficient genetic counseling. It's worth noting that many hospitals and clinics require their genetic counselors to be ABGC-certified.
Between obtaining your Bachelor's and Master's degrees, consider gaining practical experience by working for a year or two. This can provide valuable exposure to patient advocacy, counseling, and scientific lab work.
The next phase in becoming a genetic counselor involves pursuing a Master's degree from an institution recognized by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC). These programs, usually lasting around two years, encompass:
- Academic instruction in human genetics, psychosocial counseling, bioethics, research methods, genetic testing technology, and more.
- Clinical exposure across various genetic specialties.
- Supplementary activities such as education, advocacy experiences, case conferences, and so on.
After earning your Master's degree, the final step is to pass a certification exam administered by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC). Achieving this certification validates your ability to offer proficient genetic counseling. It's worth noting that many hospitals and clinics require their genetic counselors to be ABGC-certified.