Master of Science in Genetic Counseling

Overview

Genetic counselors work at the forefront of personalized, precision medicine—helping individuals and families understand their unique genetic makeup, assess potential health risks, and navigate life-changing choices with confidence. They provide not just scientific expertise but also compassionate support, guiding patients through both the medical and the emotional aspects of genetic conditions.

The demand for genetic counselors is rapidly expanding, due to advancements in testing technology, the rise of precision medicine, growing patient demand for guidance in understanding their genetic test results, and expansion of insurance coverage for genetic testing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for Genetic Counselors is projected to grow by 16% from 2023 to 2033—much faster than the average for all occupations. And with a median salary of more than $95,000 per year, there has perhaps never been a better time to become a genetic counselor.

SCU’s unique Master of Science in Genetic Counseling (MSGC) program blends 100% online coursework with hands-on fieldwork around the country—enabling you to pursue your dream of becoming a genetic counselor no matter where you live. In less than two years, you’ll not only build deep expertise in genetic science, but develop the essential interpersonal skills and the social and ethical perspective you need to become a compassionate, impactful genetic counselor.

Program at a Glance

  • Full-time program completed in 1 year and 9 months
  • Unique format that combines 100% online coursework with immersive in-person fieldwork
  • Curriculum that not only builds expertise in genetic and genomics principles, genetic conditions, and genetic testing technologies, but also prepares students with essential counseling skills, awareness of health inequities, and a deep appreciation for the psycho-social and ethical implications of their work
  • Board preparation content woven seamlessly into coursework—enabling students to prepare for their Board exams as they progress through the program, without investing additional time and money
  • Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC)
  • Graduates eligible to sit for the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) certification exam and for their respective state licensure exams
  • Fixed tuition guarantee, federal financial aid for those who qualify, and a range of institutional scholarship opportunities

Upcoming Start Dates

  • Fall: September 2nd, 2025

What Sets Our Program Apart?

UNIQUELY FLEXIBLE LEARNING FORMAT

Our curriculum design blends 100% online coursework with in-person fieldwork at locations around the country. Your live online courses will be facilitated by seasoned faculty members in a “synchronous” fashion—meaning that you will log on at set times and enjoy a highly-interactive experience that includes lectures, discussions, and activities. Your in-person fieldwork will include a range of real-world experiences, from direct patient interaction to diagnostic laboratory experience to advocacy and policy work, and more.

* The MSGC program has partnered with numerous fieldwork practicum sites across the country and will strive to find placements in locations that are convenient for you, though you may need to relocate temporarily for some of your placements.

IMPACTFUL CAPSTONE PROJECT

One of the most rewarding portions of the program, your final Capstone Project will give you the opportunity to identify and devise an innovative solution to a current challenge in genetic counseling or a related field. We’ll support you each step of the way through three specialized Capstone Courses coupled with personalized advisement and support from faculty mentors and a Capstone Committee. A graduate-level Capstone Project is an academic and professional milestone, potentially leading to publications, future research opportunities, and other achievements that can advance your career.

BUILT-IN BOARD PREP

Most healthcare students must invest extra time and money into preparing for their licensure exams—but we’ve built exam prep right into our curriculum. As you progress through your studies, you’ll be preparing for your ABGC Board exam through content that is woven seamlessly into your regular coursework. By the time you complete your degree, you’ll be ready to confidently sit for the Board exam.

GUARANTEED INTERVIEW FOR CERTIFICATE GRADUATES

Students who have completed SCU’s Pre-Genetic Counseling certificate program (and who meet the admissions standards for the MSGC program) will be guaranteed an interview with MSGC program admissions team.

*These applicants will still be required to participate in the National Match Service for Genetic Counseling (NMS).

BROADER INTERPROFESSIONAL EDUCATION

Most of today’s healthcare colleges offer an “interprofessional education” through which students learn with, from, and about other disciplines. But at SCU, our Interprofessional Education is broader and, frankly, we think that makes it better. Unlike other colleges, we teach you about both conventional and complementary disciplines—not just one or the other—because we believe in both and we teach both, all under one roof.

AN INTEGRATIVE, WHOLE HEALTH APPROACH

All too often, healthcare providers “stay in their lanes” rather than building comprehensive care plans that include other disciplines, professionals, and approaches. In addition, they look strictly at the physical body as opposed to all the factors that may be influencing a patient’s health and well-being—genetics, lifestyle, mental health, relationships, physical environments, community support, and beyond. But at SCU, no matter what program you are in, you’ll learn to blend the best of conventional and complementary approaches (integrative healthcare) and to treat the entire mind, body, and spirit (whole health)—for true lasting wellness.