Genetic Counseling

What is it?

Genetic counseling combines psychology and genetics in a unique and highly demanding discipline. With advances in genetics and identification of new genes, those with family history of diseases with genetic predisposition are curious to know about their chances of developing diseases such as cancer or Alzheimer’s disease. Genetic counselors are highly sought after by health authorities, government agencies and hospitals. They spend time with patients going through family trees and identifying potential genetic patterns of a disease. These highly trained counselors can inform a patient about their probability of developing a disease based on his or her family history. Due to the work of genetic counselors, more women have been tested for the BRCA-1 and 2 genes, the main genes that are highly associated with the development of breast cancer.

Academic Programs

Genetic counseling is a graduate, MSc degree. Applicants are required to have completed a BSc degree in genetics or a related science. Most programs require a GRE exams are usually required for admissions with a GPA of at least 3.5. 

A list of Genetic Counseling Programs in North America

http://www.kumc.edu/gec/prof/gcprogs.html

Career Opportunities

Genetic counselors are in high demand. The starting salary for these professionals is $60,000.

It is for you if:

• You enjoy both psychology and genetics and are looking for a discipline that combines the two.

• You enjoy interacting with people .

• You don’t mind listening to people’s stories and their family history of chronic disease such as cancer.