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University of Pittsburgh    
2026-2027 Graduate & Professional Studies Catalog 
    
 
  Aug 20, 2026
 
2026-2027 Graduate & Professional Studies Catalog

Genetic Counseling, MS


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The MS in Genetic Counseling is committed to providing cutting edge training in the complex science of genetics while fostering a strong foundation in counseling. This unique program is constantly evolving to ensure the continued success of graduates entering a dynamic workforce. We welcome 10 and 12 students per year to be trained by world-renowned faculty in an exciting and challenging program.
 
The program is grounded in three important elements: scientific training in human genetics and genomics, comprehensive clinical experience, and understanding the psychological and social aspects of counseling-with an added focus on integrating up to the minute discoveries in genetics and genomics as well as valuable concepts from other academic disciplines.
 
The Genetic Counseling Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling and our comprehensive program helps students to achieve and often surpass the practice based competencies outlined by the ACGC.
 
The MS in Genetic Counseling program is designed to be completed in two years of full-time study. The requirements for the MS in Genetic Counseling degree are listed below.
  • 45 Credits
  • Comprehensive Examination
  • Oral Examination - Thesis Defense

Contact Information

 
Program Director
3136 PUBHL
130 DeSoto St.
412-624-5390

Clinical Rotations


Genetic counseling students have the opportunity to participate in patient care at world-renowned medical facilities. They typically see 100 cases or more and are exposed to a variety of genetic referral types as well as diverse medical systems.

All students participate in rotations in Cancer genetics, Prenatal genetics, Pediatric genetics, Adult/Specialty genetics, Primary Care, Precision Medicine and a thesis focused block.  In addition, students spend three weeks at an optional rotation site. This allows students the opportunity to select specific training experiences to develop a higher level of expertise based on their interests.

Other Requirements


Comprehensive Examination

The written comprehensive examination occurs at the end of the first year of study. Students must complete the following courses to be eligible to sit for the exam:
A student failing a minimum score of 70% must repeat the written examination within 90 days and/or undergo a series of supervised tutorial sessions to overcome areas of deficiencies. For the student who undergoes the tutorial sessions, they must retake the exam and achieve a minimum score of 70% after completion of the sessions.
 
Failure to pass the comprehensive examination in two attempts may lead to dismissal from the program. 

Oral Examination - Thesis Defense

Students being writing their thesis in Spring of the 1st year and it must be completed before graduation. Students must complete the following courses before their thesis defense:
A final copy of the thesis must be submitted to the Thesis Advisory Committee for evaluation at least one week prior to the thesis defense. The Thesis Advisory Committee will judge the adequacy of the thesis by an open oral examination covering the subject of the thesis. Successful completion of the MS thesis requires unanimous agreement by the Thesis Advisory Committee. 
 
Must register for at least one credit during the term in which they intend to graduate. Students intending to graduate must file an application to graduate by the deadline specified in the University Calendar.  The final copy of the MS thesis must be prepared and submitted according to the University guidelines for Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETD).

Total Credits: 45


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