Pre-Genetic Counseling

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.

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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 206 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

Suggested Science Sequencing

Semester 1
Biological Sciences I with lab
Math

Semester 2
General Chemistry I
Biological Sciences II with lab

Semester 3
General Chemistry II with lab

Semester 4
Organic Chemistry I with lab

Semester 5
Organic Chemistry II with lab 
or BIOC 401/401L
Genetics

Semester 6
Biochemistry with lab (if not taken)
Molecular or Cell Biology

If required, take the GRE during Semester 6 or before Semester 7

Semester 7
Additional BIOS, BIOC, or CHEM

Semester 8
Additional BIOS, BIOC, or CHEM

*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/.

Plan Your Path to Genetic Counseling School

View Health School Application Timeline

  1. Meet with a Pre-Health advisor to create a comprehensive academic and co-curricular plan
  2. Research application requirements
    • See specific school websites for any specific application requirements which may vary by genetic counseling program
    • Meet with a representative of the genetic counseling program for specific questions and guidance
  3. Consider taking the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) – required by some programs
  4. Apply to genetic counseling programs
    • Most programs use the Genetic Counseling Admissions Match service. Applications should register with the match before applying to individual programs so they can receive their unique ID to use on their individual applications
    • Submit applications online through each genetic counseling school’s website
  5. Complete Bachelor's Degree and required prerequisite courses
  6. Attend Genetic Counseling program (2 years)

Suggested Academic Preparation

  • Bachelor’s degree – all UNL majors are great options
  • Completion of pre-requisite courses
  • Competitive academic record
    • GPA in both science and non-science courses
    • GRE score (only required at some schools)

Current Students

Current students: Meet with a Pre-Health advisor to talk more about your Pre-Health goals.

Schedule a Meeting

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