Master of Science in Genetic Counseling

Genetic Counseling Program Accreditation

The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program has been officially approved by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling as an Accredited, New Program. The ACGC is located at 1660 International Drive, Suite 600, McLean, VA 22102, www.gceducation.org. ACGC can be reached by phone at 703-506-7667.

SCU has received accreditation approval from the Western Association of Schools & Colleges (WASC) Senior Colleges and Universities Commission (WSCUC) to offer the Master of Science Degree in Genetic Counseling.

National Examination & Licensure

In recent years, more than half the states in the US have implemented licensure for genetic counselors, including California.  Many more are in process.  Licensure has resulted in a formalized regulatory structure for ensuring the protection of the public and quality of service, minimum qualifications are met, professional accountability and recourse, as well as for increasing access to qualified genetic counseling services in these states.

Graduates of SCU’s Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program will be eligible to sit for the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC)  certification exam administered twice per year. Certification, while not required everywhere, is one of the requirements to apply for a license in all states with licensing laws NSGC States Issuing Licenses for Genetic Counselors.

Each state’s defined regulatory body determines the requirements for Genetic Counseling licensure, and it is important to become familiar with the requirements for the state in which a graduate expects to become licensed and practice. Information regarding each state’s licensure process can be accessed through NSGC. In California, licensure is administered by the California Genetic Disease Screening Program GDSP.

Neither acceptance for admission into the program nor the subsequent earning of a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling degree guarantees that a state or a foreign country will grant a graduate a license to practice. Each state and foreign country, through its legislative and administrative process, defines the standards of competency and scope of practice of occupational therapy within its jurisdiction.

Please note that licensure requirements are always subject to change. Although SCU will confirm the licensure requirements on a routine basis, we strongly recommend that you inquire with the licensing agency to confirm that you understand and will meet the requirements for licensure before enrolling in your program of choice. Additionally, while progressing through the program, we recommend that you check licensing agency requirements