Genetic Counselling

Careers in Genetic Counselling

Genetic counsellors help identify families at possible risk of a genetic condition by gathering and analyzing family history and inheritance patterns and calculating chances of recurrence. They provide information about genetic testing and related procedures. They are trained to present complex and difficult-to-comprehend information about genetic risks, testing, and diagnosis to families and patients. They also discuss available options and can provide referrals to educational services, advocacy and support groups, other health professionals, and community or state services. Genetic counsellors can serve as a central resource of information about genetic conditions for other healthcare professionals, patients, and the general public.

Clinical Involvement

Clinical involvement is a crucial part of the health science journey, as it will help you to explore and confirm your interest in the profession and demonstrate a commitment to serving others. Some graduate schools require a specific amount of hours of in-clinic experience before applying, so you should plan to spend a significant amount of time outside of class gaining experience in clinical settings to strengthen your application. 

Application Process

Below is a list of action steps to plan for when you are applying to medical school. This is a simplified version of a multifaceted process, so we recommend consulting the Professional Health Program Application Process section of our website.
  • Application System
    • In Canada, the majority of applications are done through GACM.
      • Some schools do not participate, and those applications are done through the individual institution.
  • Entrance Exams
    • There are no entrance exams required for genetic counselling programs in Canada.
  • Selecting Schools
    • It is important to select schools that are not only a good fit for your academically, but also a good fit for your values, skills, and interests that will help you become the professional you want to be. Take time to research programs prior to the application process. Here are some factors you should consider:
      • Admission Requirements
      • Institutional mission, goals, and values
      • Size of cohort
      • Location
      • Your professional interests as it aligns with the school’s mission and training
  • Reference Letters
    • Confirm your letter writers at least 3 months before you plan to apply. You should determine specific letter requirements and quantities from your programs of choice. Letters are most commonly required from at least one of the following categories:
      • Science Faculty
      • Non-Science Faculty
      • Faculty Advisor
      • Employer
      • Healthcare Provider
      • Volunteer Supervisor
      • Counsellor
  • Statement of Purpose
    • Here is a video describing tips and tricks when writing your statement of purpose for genetic counsellor graduate programs

Academic Prerequisites

Pre-requisite course requirements vary widely by individual school.
For Canadian schools, you should determine specific requirements for programs of choice using the:
For American schools, you should determine specific requirements for programs of choice using the:
CourseRequired for Canadian Schools?Required for American Schools?
General ChemsitryMostYes
Organic ChemistrySomeMost
StatisticsYesYes
BiochemistryYesMany
Cell BiologyYesYes
GeneticsManyMost
PsychologyYesYes
EmbryologyRecommendedRecommended
*Some graduate schools may require different courses. Make sure to check the program you are applying to before selecting your courses.