Master of Genetic Counselling
Master of Genetic Counselling
The two-year, graduate entry coursework Master of Genetic Counselling is the entry-level qualification for work as a genetic counsellor. This program is developed and delivered by experienced genetic counsellors, supported by expert learning designers, broad consultation with the genetic counselling profession and a skilled Curriculum Advisory Committee. The program is…
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COURSE DESCRIPTION
The two-year, graduate entry coursework Master of Genetic Counselling is the entry-level qualification for work as a genetic counsellor. This program is developed and delivered by experienced genetic counsellors, supported by expert learning designers, broad consultation with the genetic counselling profession and a skilled Curriculum Advisory Committee.
The program is delivered in a way that actively supports students to study from their home areas by utilising a combination of asynchronous interactive online learning and synchronous weekly, timetabled ‘live and online’ classes, supported with a week-long block each session. Expert guest lecturers participate throughout the course, ensuring relevance and real-world application of coursework. Block learning takes place in the Graduate School of Health’s education and research facility at UTS City campus or online.
Alongside the coursework, students participate in clinical placements, sourced by UTS, throughout the two-year program. Placements are offered in a variety of settings in Australasia and may include the option of an approved international placement for interested students. Placements are supported by weekly reflective practice supervision. Students undertake research training to equip them with the skills to provide evidence-based care, talk with clients about research participation and findings and seek opportunities for higher degree research in the future.
Course aims
The course prepares graduates to work as culturally safe, competent, evidence-based client-centred genetic counsellors. Graduates are prepared to work in both the public and private system, and in positions in laboratories, biotech companies, research, policy and education.
Course structure
This course comprises a total of 96 credit points. Students must complete a total of eight 6-credit-point coursework subjects, four 6-credit-point research subjects and four 6-credit-point clinical placement subjects.
Careers
Genetic counsellors have specialist knowledge in human genetics and genomics, counselling and health communication. With rapid developments in genetics and genomics, there is likely to be a range of new opportunities for genetic counsellors in the coming years. Career options include clinical roles in public and private settings, research, education, policy, and laboratory and biotech company genetic counselling roles.
REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must have completed a UTS recognised bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent or higher qualification, or submitted other evidence of general and professional qualifications that demonstrates potential to pursue graduate studies.
Applicants must have completed either:
a. an undergraduate degree in a cognate discipline such as Biological Sciences, Chemical Sciences. Other Natural and Physical Sciences, Human Welfare Studies and Services, Behavioural Science, Medical Studies, Nursing, Public Health or Teacher Education.
OR
b. an undergraduate degree in any discipline and documented relevant work experience outlined in a CV including clear evidence of career development, professional writing, and professional achievement or practice comparable to that expected of undergraduate degree holders in cognate disciplines
In addition to a completed Bachelor degree, applicants must have also completed the following subject at a tertiary level within the last 10 years and must provide a relevant subject outline with their application:
one human genetics subject (to second or third year undergraduate level, or equivalent)
The English proficiency requirement for international students or local applicants with international qualifications is: Academic IELTS: 7.0 overall with a writing score of 7.0; or TOEFL: paper based: 584-609 overall with TWE of 5.0, internet based: 94-101 overall with a writing score of 27; or PTE: 65-72 overall with a writing score of 65; or C1A/C2P: 185-190 overall with a writing score of 185.
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
The University of Sydney, located in Sydney, Australia, is a world-renowned institution that is ranked in the top 20 universities in the world (QS World University Rankings, 2024). Students come from all over the globe to study at undergraduate and postgraduate level. Students have the choice of selecting from Australia’s widest range of programmes and disciplines. Offering over 400 study areas to select from, the university has two subjects that are ranked in the top ten in the world, with an additional 30 disciplines ranked amongst the top 50 in the world (QS 2023 Subject Rankings). Career opportunities for students are enhanced through internships and work experience, as well as the option of studying abroad for part of their degree through one of the university’s overseas programmes.Â
