Loma Linda University School of Medicine has a new Master of Science (MS) in Genetic Counseling, a two-year degree to provide graduates of the program with the skills and values to thrive in clinical genetics and genomics.
Genetic counseling is a process of communicating medical and scientific information to an individual or family with a genetic condition or birth defect. One of the main objectives is to assist families and individuals to understand complex genetic and medical information in the simplest way possible.
Genetic counselors can work in multiple areas of clinical practice including pediatrics, prenatal, cancer, metabolic disease, neurology, cardiology and genomic medicine. They also work and in a variety of work settings including academic medical centers, government, biotechnology and laboratories.
“I am excited about our forward-thinking curriculum and exceptional fieldwork opportunities which we believe will equip program graduates with the necessary skills to succeed in this dynamic profession,” said Subhadra Ramanathan, MS, MSc, CGC, program director of Genetic Counseling. “This new program addresses the growing importance of precision medicine in delivering comprehensive, whole person care and recognizing the career pathways it offers."
There are about 7,000 Certified Genetic Counselors (CGC®) in the United States. According to data from the National Society of Genetic Counselors, the genetic counseling profession has grown by over 100 percent in the last ten years and is expected to grow another 100 percent over the next ten years. By 2030 there are likely to be over 10,000 certified genetic counselors.
All students in the Genetic Counseling program are required to complete the coursework of 80 quarter units including fieldwork rotations, a Capstone research project and a comprehensive exam. Students will also be required to take self-assessment modules throughout the second year in preparation for board certification by the American Board of Genetic Counseling.
The program is in-person and is currently one of only four in Southern California to be accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC).
Applications opened on September 26 and will close on December 13, 2024.
Learn more about the Genetic Counseling program HERE.