What is Pre-Genetic Counseling?
Pre-Genetic Counseling (pre-GC) is not a major and does not lead to a degree from NDSU. Students will choose an undergraduate major that they will enjoy and find rewarding and allows them to complete prerequisite courses needed to prepare for admission to a genetic counseling program. Biological sciences and social science majors are common, however, no specific major is required.
Who are Genetic Counselors?
Genetic counselors have advanced education and training in medical genetics and counseling. They guide and support patients seeking information about how inherited diseases and conditions may affect them or their families, as well as, interpret genetic test results based on personal and family history. They may work in clinics or hospitals, specializing in areas like prenatal, pediatric, oncology, neurology, ophthalmology, and psychiatry. They may also work in research to advance the care of people with genetic conditions. Learn more about who genetic counselors are at National Society of Genetic Counselors.
What type of education is required?
Genetic counselors typically complete an undergraduate degree followed by a specialized GC program leading to a master’s degree. GC programs are typically two years long. Genetic counseling programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC).
Coursework required or highly recommended for most schools*
- Full year of general biology - BIOL 150 & 151 General Biology I & II
- Full year of general chemistry - CHEM 121 & 122 General Chemistry I & II
- One semester of organic chemistry - CHEM 341 Organic Chemistry I
- One semester of biochemistry - BIOC 460 Found/Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I
- One semester of genetics - BIOL 315 Genetics
- Additional upper-level sciences - BIOL 370 Cell Biology, BIOL 482 Developmental Biology
- Social sciences - PSYC 111 Introduction to Psychology, PSYC 250 Developmental Psychology, PSYC 270 Abnormal Psychology
- Statistics- STAT 330 Introduction to Statistics
- Medical terminology
* Admission prerequisites vary by genetic counseling program. Pre-health advising aims to keep students eligible to apply to as many programs as possible. Students should research the admission requirements of the schools to which they hope to apply. To find programs, visit the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC). If you need guidance to search for schools or review admission requirements, please schedule a meeting with an NDSU Pre-health advisor.
What do Genetic Counseling Programs look for in applicants?
A holistic review of applicants may include review of the following:
- Required/recommended courses completed
- Cumulative grade point average, typically a minimum of 3.00
- True interest and strong understanding of the field of genetic counseling
- Experiences where skills transferrable to genetic counseling have been developed
- Letters of recommendation; three are common
- An entrance exam, such as the GRE, may be required by some schools
Experiences
GC applicants should understand the role of a genetic counselor. This can be done by watching the NSGC online simulated genetic counseling sessions, interviewing a genetic counselor, listening to podcasts on genetic counseling, or a formal job shadow. Genetic counselors who are open to students contacting them can be found here; be sure to scroll to the bottom (For Students Only) and select Yes for “I am interested in contacting a genetic counselor about the profession”
Gaining experience to develop skills needed by genetic counselors is strongly recommended. Ideally, genetic counseling applicants will have experiences in advocacy and counseling, laboratory/research experience and/healthcare volunteer work. Experience in advocacy or counseling can come from a variety of settings including: domestic abuse shelters, crisis hotlines, homeless shelters, hospice care, working with individuals with physical disabilities or intellectual impairment, resident assistant, student advising or peer counseling.
A well-rounded sampling of extra-curricular activities or work experiences, both related and unrelated to healthcare and genetic counseling, will help broaden an applicant's knowledge and development.
Pre-GC students are encouraged to participate in student organizations at NDSU such as the American Medical Student Association and Allied Health (AMSA) and Future Health Professionals (HOSA). These organizations are led by students with healthcare interests and provide an opportunity for others to discuss career plans and gather details about the professions they are interested in.
The Application Process
- Register for The Match. Most GC programs participate in the Genetic Counseling Admissions Match through National Matching Services (NMS). The GC Admissions Match was established to enhance placement of applicants into accredited genetic counseling programs based upon both applicants’ and programs’ preferences. Applicants must first register for the Match with NMS before applying to participating GC programs.
- Complete GC applications. Go to program websites to review their application processes, including accessing their application.
- Provide supporting application materials which commonly include official college transcripts, a personal statement, resume or CV, and letters of recommendation (usually three are required)
- Interview with programs
- After completing program interviews, both applicants and programs will submit ranked lists of preferred placements to NMS. Results of the Match are released to both applicants and programs simultaneously in late April. Please visit the NMS to learn more about and register for the Match.
Resources