<p>Can anyone give any tips on where to look for information about genetics counseling programs? One of my kids is going to be graduating as a nurse next year. She's doing well, but mentioned that her dream career would involve work in the field of genetics counseling. I gave the usual pep talk about working towards dreams, but I'd like to point her to some tangible information about possible MS programs that she could work towards after she graduates. (She still has some electives left, so she might also be able to knock off one or two additional undergrad classes needed for the programs while she's still in school.) I know nothing about this field though. Thanks for any tips.</p>
<p>I’m not familiar with programs, but you don’t need to be a nurse to apply for an MS in genetic counseling- you can apply with an undergraduate degree such as chemistry, biology. She can apply from nursing, but since she’s got that degree, maybe building on it is a better investment. If she’s going to go for a master’s, becoming a nurse practitioner might give her more options and autonomy. Being a genetic counselor is fine if that’s what she wants to do, but her masters would be specific to that. As an NP, she’ll be able to be employed in many areas and may have more job and salary options. Consider also where she may live if she moves, as jobs for genetic counselors may be in cities, while a NP can work anywhere.
If she’s interested in genetics, there are ways for her to be involved in the field of genetics- such as working in pediatric neurology or child development, obstetrics, or at an academic center with a medical genetic team. Genetics counselors would still do the specific counseling for families- but she would be involved with the families as an NP.
The employment and advisor center at her school should be able to advise her. If she’s going to spend the time and money to get a master’s, then she can decide what her options are for both.</p>
<p>It’s true that being a nurse practitioner will give your daughter a lot more opportunities than genetic counseling. Nursing is booming and there are so many opportunities - management, research nursing, nurse epidemiologist, community health nurse, primary care, etc. She may even be able to get a dual degree, or get an MSN and focus on genetics and become a genetic counselor with that.</p>
<p>But anyway, if she does want to be a genetic counselor, there are several programs. It’s a brand new field, so outcomes are difficult to find.</p>
<p>[Accredited</a> Programs](<a href=“http://gceducation.org/Pages/Accredited-Programs.aspx]Accredited”>http://gceducation.org/Pages/Accredited-Programs.aspx)</p>
<p>This page lists accredited MS programs in genetic counseling.</p>
<p>Thanks for that link, Juillet. She’ll definitely research the programs, and will be looking into the MSN with a focus on genetics. </p>
<p>She’s talking about her dream career right now, and isn’t concerned about employability (probably since she already has job offers) or money (she’ll be graduating with no debt). Oh, to be young again…</p>