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Genetic Counselor

Overview

Genetic Counselor is one of the Top Ten Hot Jobs of 2007, according to AOL's CareerBuilder.com website.

Genetic counselors are health professionals with specialized graduate degrees and experience in the areas of medical genetics and counseling. Most enter the field from a variety of disciplines, including biology, genetics, nursing, psychology, public health and social work.

You can download, save and print a PDF of this career profile:

Genetic Counselor 14 May 2008 [pdf, 173 KB]

To meet a genetic counselor and find out what it's like to work in this field, see the NIH "Lifeworks" Website.

Working Conditions

The genetic counseling profession is rapidly expanding and diversifying. Heightened public awareness, coupled with scientific advances in adult disorders and reproductive technologies, have increased the demand for genetic counselors in clinical, teaching, administrative, commercial, private practice and consulting environments. This trend is expected to continue well into the 21st century ...and beyond

Average Salary

$48,134

Years in school

6

Job outlook

Excellent

Sponsor

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Academic Requirements

Currently, numerous training programs offer master's degrees in genetic counseling in the United States. Coursework typically includes clinical genetics, population genetics, cytogenetics, and molecular genetics coupled with psychosocial theory, ethics and counseling techniques. Clinical placement in ABGC-approved medical genetics centers is an integral part of the degree requirements. Additional programs accept nurses seeking post-graduate degrees with specialty training in genetics. Search for schools that provide training for this career.

After earning a degree, genetic counselors become certified by sitting for a certification exam administered by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC).