Northwestern University : Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University : MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited) Walden University : MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited, six specializations to choose from)
Grand Canyon University : Master's Degree in Counseling (As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition.)
Liberty University : MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (Online with required intensives)
The Chicago School : M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Online Programs. CACREP Accredited.)
Pepperdine University : Master’s Clinical Psychology (Licensed Professional Counselor) (No GRE required)
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) : Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (100% Online, No GRE Required)
NYU Steinhardt : Online MA in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness (MPCAC accredited, GRE not required)What Does a Genetic Counselor Do?
Genetic counselors work with individuals, families, and healthcare providers to interpret genetic test results and understand the implications of inherited health risks. They provide guidance on managing genetic disorders, assessing risks for inherited diseases, and making informed decisions about family planning or medical treatment. Here’s a closer look at the responsibilities of a genetic counselor:
Key Responsibilities of Genetic Counselors
- Risk Assessment and Analysis
Genetic counselors analyze personal and family health histories to identify patterns that may indicate genetic conditions. They assess the likelihood of inherited health risks, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, or genetic disorders, and provide clients with an understanding of their genetic health profile. - Education and Counseling
In addition to interpreting test results, genetic counselors educate clients on complex genetic information in an accessible way. They offer support, address clients’ emotional and psychological concerns, and help clients make informed choices about their healthcare. - Collaboration with Healthcare Providers
Genetic counselors frequently work alongside medical specialists, including oncologists, cardiologists, and prenatal care providers. They provide expertise on genetic factors that may influence diagnoses, treatments, or preventive measures for various conditions. - Developing Personalized Care Plans
Based on a client’s genetic profile, genetic counselors may create personalized care or monitoring plans. These plans are often tailored to mitigate risks, monitor for early signs of disease, and guide lifestyle and treatment decisions.
By combining scientific knowledge with interpersonal skills, genetic counselors help clients navigate complex genetic information and empower them to make informed health decisions.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements |
Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Northwestern University
Online MA in Counseling
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
Prepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 months Learn MoreFull-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available |
| Walden University
MS in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
School counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Learn More |
| Grand Canyon University
Master's Degree in Counseling
HLC and NASAC Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's degree emphases include: Childhood and Adolescence Disorders, Christian Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Trauma. Designed to meet the academic requirements of the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential and the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. Learn More |
| Liberty University
MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Online with required intensives |
Our CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling degree online can help you become an ethical, well-trained mental health counselor with the knowledge, values, and skills you need to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
| The Chicago School
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Bachelor's Degree Required. |
This online CMHC program prepares students for a career offering mental health services in a variety of settings; helping diverse clients through issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, stress, relationship difficulties, and suicidal impulses. Learn More |
| Pepperdine University
Master’s Clinical Psychology (Licensed Professional Counselor)
|
✔ Online
No GRE Required Bachelor's Degree Required |
Bachelor's holders can prepare to become a licensed professional counselor online. With no GRE scores required to apply, the 24 month online MA in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine allows you to advance your career and be a catalyst of change. Learn More |
| Mid-America Christian University (MACU)
Master of Science (MS) in Counseling
Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
✔ Online
100% Online |
Expand your impact with an online counseling degree rooted in faith-based practice. Mid-America Christian University offers the largest Master of Science (MS) in Counseling program in Oklahoma, with emphasis areas in addiction and substance abuse, applied behavioral science, clinical mental health counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Explore the online MS in Counseling at MACU. Learn More |
| NYU Steinhardt
Online MA in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness
 MPCAC Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE not required; Bachelor’s degree and minimum 2.5 GPA required |
As few as 21 months to complete Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (NASAC Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (CACREP Accredited)
The Chicago School - M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Pepperdine University - Master’s Clinical Psychology (Licensed Professional Counselor)
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) - Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited)
NYU Steinhardt - Online MA in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness (MPCAC Accredited)
How to Become a Genetic Counselor
Education Requirements
To pursue a career in genetic counseling, individuals typically follow a structured educational path that includes both undergraduate and graduate-level studies. Here’s a breakdown of the necessary steps:
- Undergraduate Education
Most aspiring genetic counselors start with a bachelor’s degree in counseling, biology, genetics, or psychology. This foundational education introduces key concepts in genetics, human anatomy, and mental health counseling, setting the stage for advanced study in one of the most unique counseling specializations. Although a bachelor’s degree alone does not qualify someone to become a genetic counselor, it is an essential prerequisite for entering a master’s program in genetic counseling. - Master’s Degree in Genetic Counseling
A master’s degree in genetic counseling is typically required to practice as a genetic counselor. Programs generally take two years to complete and include a combination of coursework, clinical experience, and research. Typical courses cover medical genetics, counseling techniques, ethics in healthcare, and psychosocial aspects of counseling. During their studies, students also complete clinical rotations, gaining hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings and learning to work directly with patients and healthcare professionals.
By meeting these educational requirements, aspiring genetic counselors develop the academic foundation and practical skills needed to provide genetic counseling services in clinical and research settings.
Licensing and Certification Requirements
In addition to completing educational requirements, genetic counselors must pursue certification and, in many states, licensure to practice professionally:
- Certification by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC)
After completing a master’s program, graduates can sit for the ABGC certification exam. Passing this exam is essential for becoming a board-certified genetic counselor, a credential that verifies the individual’s knowledge and skills. Board certification is recognized as a standard of competency in the field and is often required by employers. - State Licensure
While licensing requirements vary by state, many states require genetic counselors to hold a license to practice. Licensure typically involves providing proof of education, passing the ABGC certification exam, and meeting additional state-specific criteria. Licensure ensures that counselors adhere to professional standards, ethical guidelines, and competency requirements.
Together, these steps—earning a graduate degree, obtaining certification, and meeting licensure requirements—prepare individuals for a fulfilling career as a genetic counselor.
Genetic Counseling Degree Programs
When selecting a genetic counseling degree program, prospective students should consider several important factors to ensure the program meets their professional goals and aligns with industry standards:
Accreditation
Choosing an accredited genetic counseling program is crucial, as it ensures the education provided meets the professional standards required for certification and licensure. In the U.S., most reputable programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC), which is recognized as the primary accrediting body for genetic counseling degree programs. Accredited genetic counseling programs can streamline the certification process and improve employment prospects post-graduation.
Program Formats
Genetic counseling programs are generally offered in a traditional, on-campus format due to the field’s emphasis on clinical experience and hands-on training. However, some programs may offer hybrid options that combine online coursework with in-person clinical rotations. Online genetic counseling programs with hybrid formats can be ideal for students who need some scheduling flexibility but still require face-to-face learning for clinical skills development. When choosing a format, consider your preferred learning style and whether you need to balance studies with other commitments.
Cost Considerations
The cost of genetic counseling programs can vary significantly depending on the institution, format, and geographic location. Beyond tuition, factor in related expenses such as books, lab fees, and any travel expenses for clinical rotations. Many schools offer financial aid, scholarships, or work-study programs to help mitigate costs, so be sure to explore these options. Comparing in-state versus out-of-state tuition rates may also be beneficial, as some schools offer discounted rates for residents.
Admission Requirements
Admission to genetic counseling programs is competitive, and candidates are typically required to meet a number of prerequisites. Standard requirements often include a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, prerequisite courses in biology, genetics, psychology, or statistics, and hands-on experience in healthcare or counseling settings. Additionally, many programs seek applicants with strong interpersonal skills, a commitment to helping others, and experience in patient-centered roles. Check specific program requirements to ensure your academic and professional background aligns with admission expectations.
By thoroughly researching these aspects, students can identify genetic counseling degree programs that best match their needs and support their career aspirations.
Job Outlook and Salary for Genetic Counselors
The job outlook for genetic counselors is strong. Employment of genetic counselors is projected to grow 16 percent from 2023 to 2033—substantially faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This growth rate underscores the increasing importance of genetic counseling in modern healthcare, especially as technological advancements allow counselors to perform a wider variety of analyses.
Demand Drivers
The demand for genetic counselors is being driven by developments in fields like cancer genomics, which enable counselors to assess a patient’s risk for certain cancers. Additionally, the range of genetic tests available has expanded, and many of these tests are now covered by insurance providers, making them more accessible to patients. These factors support a steady demand for genetic counseling services across various healthcare settings.
Salary Expectations
As of May 2023, the median annual wage for genetic counselors was $95,770, significantly above the median for all occupations, according to the BLS. Salaries can vary by industry, with genetic counselors working in outpatient care centers earning the highest median wage at $124,260. Here is a breakdown of median annual wages in top industries for genetic counselors:
- Outpatient care centers: $124,260
- Medical and diagnostic laboratories: $107,970
- Hospitals (state, local, and private): $94,760
- Offices of physicians: $93,690
- Colleges, universities, and professional schools (private): $89,980
Overall, a career as a genetic counselor offers both a promising job outlook and a competitive salary, particularly for those with specialized skills or experience in high-demand areas such as cancer genomics.
FAQ on Becoming a Genetic Counselor
What is the primary role of a genetic counselor?
A genetic counselor’s main role is to assess patients’ genetic health risks, explain testing options, and interpret test results. They guide patients through potential hereditary conditions and help them understand the implications for themselves and their families.
Do I need a master’s degree to become a genetic counselor?
Yes, a master’s degree in genetic counseling from an accredited program is required to become a genetic counselor. This specialized degree ensures that counselors have the necessary skills in medical genetics, counseling, and clinical experience.
How long does it take to become a genetic counselor?
Typically, it takes about six to eight years to become a genetic counselor, including four years for a bachelor’s degree and an additional two years for a master’s in genetic counseling. Some candidates may require additional time if they pursue specialized training or certifications.
What are the certification requirements for genetic counselors?
In the U.S., genetic counselors are certified by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC). This certification involves passing the board’s certification exam after completing an accredited graduate program. Many states also require genetic counselors to be licensed, which generally requires certification from the ABGC.
Genetic Counseling: A Growing Career with Impact
Genetic counseling is a vital, expanding field at the intersection of healthcare and genetics, offering a rewarding path for those interested in guiding patients through genetic health considerations. With solid growth projections and a substantial earning potential, genetic counseling presents an exciting career for those with a passion for genetics and patient care. For students ready to pursue this path, a commitment to specialized education and certification will open doors to a meaningful and impactful profession.
