Master of Science in Genetic Counseling

The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling (MSGC) program is a full-time program that prepares students for a career as a genetic counselor. With the rapid advancement in knowledge of genetics and genomics, and increasing importance of this information for medical care, there is no better time to enter the field of genetic counseling.
Genetic counselors are essential players in the healthcare team, and possess the unique skills and knowledge necessary to support individuals and families in understanding and adapting to the medical and psychological implications of genetic conditions. The genetic counseling training program within the University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry prepares students for a range of career opportunities available to genetic counselors and to shape the future direction of the field
Our mission is to provide graduate students with the foundation of knowledge and skills critical for successful practice as genetic counselors in varied and emerging genetic counseling roles. The program is dedicated to providing a supportive and rigorous learning environment where students thrive and engage in comprehensive clinical training that includes both common areas of genetic counseling practice as well as more specialized areas. Our program emphasizes leadership development together with a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach that prepares students to advance genetic and genomic health care for people of widely diverse backgrounds.

Applicants must have earned a U.S. baccalaureate degree or its equivalent from a college, university, or technical school of acceptable standing. Students in their final year of undergraduate study may be admitted on the condition that their bachelor's degrees are awarded before they matriculate. Evidence of the earned degree is required prior to matriculation in the form of an official transcript noting degree conferral.
Baccalaureate degree, or its equivalent, from an accredited institution
Prerequisite courses including a minimum of one semester/quarter each of:
Biochemistry
Biology
Genetics
Organic chemistry
Psychology
Statistics
Transcript: Unofficial electronic transcripts are sufficient for the application. Upon enrollment, students will be required to supply official transcripts
GPA of 3.0 or above is strongly recommended
Statement of Purpose The Statement of Purpose should clearly describe your reasons for applying to the Genetic Counseling graduate program at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, your preparation for the field of study, and other aspects of your background and interests which may aid the Admissions Committee in evaluating your aptitude and motivation for graduate study. Please incorporate information as it relates to aspects of the graduate program's mission and objectives. If there are weaknesses in your application, please address them directly as this will be to your benefit. Your statement should not exceed 3 pages in length (single spaced).
3 letters of recommendation There are no requirements regarding the background of your recommenders, but you are encouraged to choose individuals who can comment on your academic potential for graduate work, and strengths and experiences as they relate to the field of genetic counseling. When possible, consider requesting recommendations from individuals who know you from different contexts and settings. Examples of recommenders include faculty member(s) at the last school you attended (e.g., professor, research mentor), mentor(s), advisor(s), and supervisor(s). Please do not submit more than 3 letters of recommendation, if more than 3 letters are submitted, only the first 3 received will be reviewed.
Resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
Exposure to genetic counseling profession (e.g., shadowing, interviews, internships, participation in genetic counseling career fair)
Please include this as a separate section on your resume or CV
Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency. Applicants are required to provide official scores that are within 2 years of the original test date. Official TOEFL (SMD school code: 2948) or IELTS Scores.
Personal interview, held virtually
Note: GRE scores are not required and will not be reviewed. Please do not add GRE scores to your application.