The Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling MS program will provide students integrative education and training to become compassionate and knowledgeable genetic counselors.

The Jefferson MS program in Human Genetics & Genetic Counseling is a participant in the Genetic Counseling Admissions Match through National Matching Services (NMS). The GC Admissions Match has been established to enhance the process of placing applicants into positions in masters-level genetic counseling programs that are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC). The Match uses a process that takes into account both applicants’ and programs’ preferences.

Learn more about genetic counseling and the Match process below.

What is Genetic Counseling?
The National Society of Genetic Counselors (2005) defines genetic counseling as the process of helping people understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease. This process integrates:

Interpretation of family and medical histories to assess the chance of disease occurrence or recurrence.
Education about inheritance, testing, management, prevention, resources and research.
Counseling to promote informed choices and adaptation to the risk or condition.
Genetic counseling is a rapidly expanding and diversifying profession that offers opportunities for practice in a wide variety of settings, such as hospitals/clinics, academia, laboratories, government agencies, public health, consulting and advocacy. Clinical practice areas encompass many specialties including prenatal, pediatrics, cardiology, neurology, metabolic disorders, infertility, cancer, etc. As a profession that blends scientific information with clinical, ethical, psychological and legal implications, genetic counselors have a uniquely satisfying and rewarding career that is in high demand.

To learn more about this exciting profession, visit:

National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC)
American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG)
American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG)
Science Journal: "Genetic counseling: A growing area of opportunity"