Master of Science in Genetic Counseling

The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling (MSGC) at MUSC is a 58-credit hour, five-semester hybrid program. The program is a well-balanced academic and clinically-based program dedicated to teaching practice-based competencies in a compassionate, safe, and evidence-based patient care environment. Students are exposed to a rigorous education curriculum. A majority of coursework is offered online and asynchronously, allowing students to complete didactic components at a time and location of choice. During the first year, students are not required to relocate or visit the MUSC campus in Charleston, SC.

Students begin simulated patient counseling in the first spring semester and move into supervised clinical placements in the first summer semester to develop real-world counseling skills. Over the course of summer and the second year, students are exposed to a variety of clinical settings in order to develop knowledge and skills across major genetic counseling practice areas and other settings. The majority of clinical placements will be in South Carolina. Students should plan to relocate for the second year or have a plan in place for frequent in-person visits to the area for clinical rotation experiences. There may be some opportunities for placement outside of South Carolina or via Telehealth. Read more about our clinical education.

Students will conduct a thesis project over the course of the program, with guidance from a thesis committee. Supplemental activities such as teaching and professional engagement ensure a balanced training experience in the profession of genetic counseling.

Upon completion of this program, the student will be awarded a Master of Science (MS) Degree in Genetic Counseling.

Program Objectives To provide the clinical science for genetic counselors to practice in prenatal, general, cancer and specialty genetics settings.To provide medical and psychosocial assessment skills necessary to facilitate a genetic counseling session.To impart scholarly contributions to the field of genetic counseling.Graduates are prepared for the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) Board Certification Exam.Graduates contribute to the genetic counseling workforce and adhere to the NSGC Code of Ethics. Student Learning Outcomes Students demonstrate advanced knowledge of prenatal, general, cancer and specialty genetics.Students conduct accurate and appropriate patient assessment and counseling.Graduates are able to engage in applied research relevant to clinical practice.Graduates obtain ABGC certification.Graduates obtain employment in genetic counseling and adhere to the NSGC Code of Ethics.

Mission

To engage the next generation of genetic counselors in cutting-edge genomics education, clinical practice and research. Program graduates will be equipped to practice in precision healthcare and engage in the rapidly evolving landscape of genetics and genomics to advance scientific discovery, education and community health.

Vision

To be a nationally recognized genetic counseling educational program that graduates highly sought after, innovative genetic counseling leaders.

Values Integrity Diversity and Inclusion Evidence-based Education Professional Advocacy Wellness Innovation

Curriculum

Year 1, Fall

Year 1, Spring

Year 1, Summer

Year 2, Fall

Year 2, Spring