Pre-Genetic Counseling Roadmap
Start your journey to becoming a genetic counselor.
Genetic counselors have advanced training in medical genetics and counseling that allows them to interpret genetic test results and to guide and support patients in the prevention and treatment of genetically inherited diseases. They help explain to patients how family and medical histories may impact the chance of disease occurrence or recurrence; guide patients through choosing which genetic tests may be right for them and interpreting the results; and help patients and their families make the most informed choices about health conditions.
Pre-Genetic Counseling Roadmap at UNL
Genetic Counseling Prerequisite Classes
Depending on the school you plan to attend, you may need additional prerequisite courses. Meet with an advisor for more information.
Typical Genetic Counseling School Requirements
Biology – 2 semesters
Chemistry – 2 semesters
Organic Chemistry – 1-2 semesters
Biochemistry – 1 semester
Genetics – 1 semester
Molecular or Cell Biology – 1 semester
Statistics – 1 semester
Psychology – 1 semester
Advanced Genetics - 1 semester
What to Take at University of Nebraska Lincoln
Some classes require prerequisites. Meet with an advisor for help planning your courses.
Biology – LIFE 120/120L & LIFE 121/121L
Chemistry – CHEM 109A/L & 110A/L or 113A/L, 114, & 221
Organic Chemistry – CHEM 251/253 & 252/254 or 261/263 & 262/264
Biochemistry – BIOC 401 or 431
Genetics – BIOS 201* or AGRO 215
Molecular or Cell Biology – BIOS 302, 303, or 420
Statistics – CRIM 251, ECON 215, EDPS 459, PSYC 350, SOCI 205, SOCI 206, STAT 218, or STAT 380
Psychology – PSYC 181 or any upper level PSYC
Advanced Genetics - BIOS 418
*Previously BIOS 206
Suggested Science Sequencing
Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
Semester 3 | Semester 4 |
Semester 5 | Semester 6 |
If required, take the GRE during Semester 6 or before Semester 7 | |
Semester 7 | Semester 8 |
Sequence may vary from above depending on declared major requirements
The above coursework recommendations fulfill the entrance requirements for the Genetic Counseling program at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). Students who are considering other programs are encouraged to contact those schools directly for a list of entrance requirements.
Other Notes:
- AP/IB credit: AP/IB can be used toward one semester of the general biology and general chemistry requirements. AP/IB will not be accepted toward the genetics, biochemistry, statistics, or psychology requirements.
- Math: Chemistry may require math as a pre-requisite. See your pre-health advisor for math placement information.
- Genetics and psychology: often programs require you to complete these courses for applying. Contact schools for more information.
Extracurricular Involvement and Activities:
Pursuing a genetic counseling graduate degree requires more than just coursework. Your extracurricular activities, employment, and healthcare experiences like shadowing and volunteering will contribute greatly to your success in this field. Specifically, advocacy work or one-on-one work with people in a crisis situation will be good preparation. See a pre-health advisor in the Explore Center to plan extracurricular activities that will prepare you for this program.
Application and Admission
Application: Apply individually to each genetic counseling school
Entrance exam: The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required at some schools. Visit ets.org/gre for more information. UNMC does not require the GRE.
National Match Service (NMS): Most programs use the National Match Service in conjunction with the program application. Students need to register for the NMS before applying to programs. More information can be found https://natmatch.com/gcadmissions/.