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Master of Science in Genetic Counseling

Program Director: Aida Metzenberg
genetic.counseling@csun.edu
818-677-3356
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This interdisciplinary graduate program leads to the Master of Science in Genetic Counseling.

Genetic counseling is a discussion process providing information and support to individuals and families having concerns about a birth defect or genetic condition. The master's-level genetic counselor has emerged as the standard-bearer for providing genetic services to individuals and families in need. The genetic counselor acts as a liaison between families and medical professionals, communicating information about causes, implications and recurrence risks, helping families make decisions, and make the best possible adjustment to difficult circumstances.

Master's-level genetic counselors must certified by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC). Specific requirements for certification may be obtained directly from the Board, (301) 571-1825, but include obtaining a master's degree in Genetic Counseling.

The program prepares students for genetic counseling careers, including preparation for the certification examination conducted by the American Board of Genetic Counseling. The program leads to an M.S. degree and includes concurrent placement into accredited clinical training sites. Graduates will have a clear understanding of:

Admission Requirements
  1. Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, with a grade point average of at least 3.0 out of 4.0.

  2. Completion of the following courses or their equivalents: Genetics; Embryology; Biochemistry; Statistics; Counseling Fundamentals (e.g. EPC 451)

  3. Completion of at least one course from among the following areas: Special Education (e.g. SPED 400); Psychological Development; Cross-cultural issues.

  4. The Graduate Record Examination, including an advanced examination.

  5. At least one year of experience in working with people in crisis, for example counseling experience in agencies such as crisis intervention centers, student counseling centers, family planning clinics, etc.

Applications are accepted for the fall semester only and must be received by January 1. Candidates lacking one or more of the prerequisites will be considered for admission to the Genetic Counseling Program, and may be admitted conditionally, with the prerequisite to be fulfilled during the program.

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Required Courses for for the M.S. in Genetic Counseling (38 units*)

BIOL 468 Human Genetics (3)
BIOL 563 Cytogenetics (4)
BIOL 564 Human Biochemical Genetics (3)
BIOL 567 Medical Genetics (3)
BIOL 571 Molecular Diagnostics (3)
BIOL 665 Colloquium in Human Genetics (2,2)
EPC 633 Development and Learning Problems in Early Childhood (3)
EPC 659A Counseling Practicum: Communication (3)
EPC 659B Counseling Practicum: Skills (3)
EPC 676 Seminar in Genetic Counseling (3)
SPED 631 Atypical Development of Infants and Toddlers (3)
BIOL 698 Thesis: Case report suitable for publication; counseling research project; or an experimental research project (3)
*Units are shown in parenthesis. Field Work: Placements in a variety of accredited clinical training sites begin in the second semester of the first year. All programs must be approved by the program coordinator. This listing is providing for information purposes only. The student should consult the university catalog for further details and course descriptions.
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