What is Genetic Counseling?
The Genetic Counseling Program is a part of UNCG’s School of Health and Human Sciences.
Genetic counselors work with individuals and families to help them understand how genetics influence someone’s health, future health, disease diagnosis or treatment. Genetic counseling is a master’s-terminal field where graduates complete two years of intensive coursework and fieldwork prior to sitting for a board exam.
Genetic counselors work in healthcare settings across the lifespan, as well as in research, public health and policy, education, leadership, laboratories and industry.
I can’t believe the growth that has happened in one year. Things that were completely foreign at the beginning are now easy conversations that I can dive into with patients.
Claudia Greenberg, Graduate Student in Genetic Counseling, M.S.
Learn About Our Programs
MASTER OF SCIENCE (M.S.)
Our program is designed to prepare students with the knowledge and proficiency to practice as genetic counselors in a variety of settings, including non-clinical and clinical prenatal, pediatric, adult, and cancer genetics.
Undergraduate Minor
An undergraduate minor in genetic counseling can be a valuable addition for students majoring in biology, nursing, as well as students interested in pursuing a master’s in the future.
NANCY ADAMS: NC’S FIRST GENETIC COUNSELOR
Then and Now
Nancy James Adams ’60, ’77 M.S. has worked longer as a genetic counselor than anyone else in this state. That’s because this UNC Greensboro alumna was the very first.