Brooke
Is the majority of your time, as a geneticist, spent interacting with patients or doing laboratory work?
I have taken a semester long genetics course in high school and I found it very intriguing. I was curious if being a genetics counselor involved mostly talking to patients about their genes and what risks they carry or if it involves laboratory work. #doctor #science #biology #technology #genetics #diseases
2 answers
Daniela Silva
Daniela’s Answer
Hi Brooke,
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.
They provide a critical service to individuals and families considering undergoing genetic testing by helping them identify their risks for certain disorders, investigate family health history, interpret information and determine if testing is needed. The genetic counseling process helps people understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease.
The genetic counseling profession is rapidly expanding and diversifying. Heightened public awareness coupled with scientific advances in reproductive technologies and knowledge about the genetics of a wide range of adult disorders, have increased the demand for genetic counselors in clinical, teaching, research, administrative, commercial, public health, public policy, private practice and consulting environments. This trend is expected to continue well into the 21st century.
To become a certified genetic counselor, you must obtain a master’s degree in genetic counseling from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC). You can find a program in the United States or Canada on the ACGC website.
Coursework typically includes clinical genetics, population genetics, cytogenetics and molecular genetics coupled with psychosocial theory, ethics and counseling techniques. Clinical placement in medical genetics centers approved by the ACGC is an integral part of the degree requirements.
Source: http://explorehealthcareers.org/en/career/53/genetic_counselor#Tab=Overview
I hope these information can help you. Good Luck!
Donald Norbeck
Donald’s Answer
My daughter is currently at University pursuing a career in Genetic Counseling. While there is not a specific undergraduate degree for Genetic Counseling. This list of accredited Masters Programs helped her choose a college and a major. https://www.gceducation.org/program-directory/ check the programs for suggested/required undergraduate program of study.
My daughter started as a Biological Science Major but this year switched to Public Health. The difference between the two tracked some of the questions you have. BioSci is more focused on the science side and is traditionally aligned with PreMed. Public Health has both a focus on science and policy. While both Majors typically require Organic Chemistry only BioSci also requires additional Physics and Math courses. Public Heath can also allow exploration of sociology and psychology study.
To be a Genetic Counselor you will most likely need a Master Degree along with related job/internship/career experience. So its important to work backwards from that goal and understand the path required to get there. To be a Genetic Counselor< Work Experience,< Masters Degree,
Donald recommends the following next steps: