Online Ph.D. and PsyD Degree Programs in Genetic Counseling

Genetic counseling combines extensive knowledge of genetics with the psychosocial issues that arise when people are faced with gene-related medical or reproductive problems. Practitioners in this field may work with patients, do research, or be involved in public health works. Because these counselors often have to deal with problems like inherited diseases and their effects, many universities combine a PhD in genetics and a PhD in genetic counseling into one unified degree.

This career path is very rewarding, but it requires more effort to get into due to the medical component. Despite this, many online doctoral programs only take two to three years to complete, assuming you already have your master’s degree.

What Will I Learn in a Genetic Counseling Doctorate Program?

An online genetic counseling doctorate program is an extension of master’s programs of the same name. In it, you’ll learn even more about genetics and counseling people who are somehow impacted by genetic disease. You may be helping people who want to have children, those who have inherited a disease, or the family members of people with such conditions.

While the exact number of credit hours required depends on the university, it is reasonable to expect to be in class for 75-85 credits worth of study.

At many schools, genetic counseling-specific courses are taken at the master’s level, while the PhD is in general genetics. However, those that offer a PhD specifically in genetics counseling may require courses like:

• Medical Genetics

• Genetic Counseling Principles

• Fetal and Prenatal Genetics

• Cancer Genomics

• Principles of Public Health

• Clinical Practicum

• Thesis Preparation

• Professional Issues

• Case conference

What To Look For in an Online Genetic Counseling Doctorate Program?

When searching for an online doctorate program in genetic counseling (Ph.D. or PsyD), there are several crucial factors to consider. Accreditation is paramount, ensuring that the program meets rigorous academic standards and is recognized by reputable accrediting bodies. Look for programs accredited by organizations such as the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC). The curriculum should be comprehensive, covering advanced topics in genetics, counseling theories and techniques, ethical considerations, and research methodologies. Evaluate the qualifications and expertise of the faculty members, ensuring they have strong academic backgrounds and practical experience in genetic counseling.

Access to resources such as online databases, genetic literature, and counseling tools is essential for staying up-to-date with advancements in the field. Interactive online platforms that foster collaboration and discussion among students can enhance the learning experience. Additionally, seek programs that offer practical experiences, such as supervised clinical rotations or internships, providing opportunities to apply genetic counseling principles in real-world settings. Finally, consider the support services offered by the program, such as mentorship, career guidance, and networking opportunities within the genetic counseling community. By considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions when selecting an online doctorate program in genetic counseling (Ph.D. or PsyD).

Admissions Requirements for a Doctorate in Genetic Counseling

As is typical, the stringency of the admissions process depends on the competitiveness and prestige of the university offering the doctorate. It is also important to note that at some colleges, the PhD is a continuation of their own master’s degree program. These schools may assume that you have already taken courses that other universities don’t offer until later. Because of this unique factor, it’s important to check your prospective school for specific details, especially if you intend to transfer over from a different university’s master’s program.

Most university application offices also have some elements in common. In general, it’s a good idea to expect to have to provide these things as part of the admissions process:

• Application

• A fee (if applicable)

• Official transcripts

• Letter(s) of recommendation

• Statement of purpose

• Meet a minimum GPA requirement

• Possibly provide GRE scores

One very unique thing about this degree is that many schools don’t offer a PhD that is specifically in genetic counseling. Instead, they leave the specialization to the master’s degree, and then offer a PhD in genetics. Alternatively, they combine the master’s and doctorate into one elongated program that is not considered fully complete until you have the highest degree.

Because of this, you will need to contact your prospective universities for the full details of how their program works. Doing so will help prevent wasted time, especially if you decide to change schools between degrees.

List of Genetic Counseling Doctorate Degree Programs

Find an online or campus-based doctorate program in genetic counseling today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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Liz Norris, LPCC

Liz Norris is a highly skilled and compassionate Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who has devoted her career to helping individuals achieve mental wellness and lead fulfilling lives. After receiving her master's degree in counseling, Liz worked in various clinical settings, including community mental health clinics and private practices. Throughout her career, Liz recognized the importance of providing resources and support to aspiring counselors and psychologists. This led to her involvement with CounselingPsychology.org, a website dedicated to helping individuals navigate the journey towards becoming a mental health professional. Liz is a mother of three who enjoys writing, tennis, and volunteering in her community.