Genetic Counselling

Masters Program in Genetic Counselling (GCTP)

Genetic Counselling is an exciting and challenging career. It is a process that involves communication between families and individuals having concerns about birth defects or genetic conditions. The genetic counsellor is part of a genetics team that provides information and support and also serves as a liaison between the family and other health care professionals to provide the most current information on causes, implications and recurrence risks for genetic conditions.

GENERAL OVERVIEW

The Department of Medical Genetics, through the Faculty of Graduate Studies at the University of British Columbia, offers a two-year graduate program leading to a MSc. degree in Genetic Counselling. The program has full accreditation status by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC). Students entering the program will be eligible to apply for “Active Candidate” status for both the ABGC and the Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors (CAGC) certification exams.

The program is a non-thesis program that consists of c`ourse work in basic, molecular and clinical genetics; counselling techniques; and bioethics as well as practical experience through clinical and laboratory rotations. Students also attend and participate in educational sessions offered by the Department of Medical Genetics and other departments within the Hospital and University.

DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM

Course Work: The majority of the course work will take place during the winter session (September to December) of the first year. Course work may include:

1st Year: Advanced Human Genetics (MEDG 520/530)
Human, Biochemical and Molecular Genetics (MEDG 420)
Concepts in Clinical Genetics (MEDG 550)
Genetic Counselling Seminar (MEDG 560)
Cancer Genetics (MEDG 421)
Genetics and Ethics (MEDG 535)
Interviewing Skills (CNPS 362)
Introductory Clinical Rotation (MEDG 570)

2nd Year:Advanced Genetic Counselling Seminar (MEDG 565)
Advanced Clinical Rotation (MEDG 575)
Independent Directed Studies(MEDG 548)

Clinical Rotations

The Provincial Medical Genetics Program, Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, is the main referral centre for genetic services in the province. As a result, the clinical caseload is extremely varied. The clinical rotations (MEDG 570, 575) have been developed and are evaluated in accordance with the Practice Based Competencies established by the American Board of Genetic Counseling. As students gain experience, their role in the clinical setting will progress until they are able to counsel independently. The clinical roations include:

• Paediatric Genetics
• Prenatal Genetics
• Adult Genetics
• Specialty Clinics (both Adult and Paediatric)
• Cancer Genetics
• Centre for Prenatal Diagnosis and Treatment
• Cytogenetic Laboratory
• Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory
• Biochemical Diseases Laboratory
• Embryofetopathology Laboratory

ELIGIBILITY

Applicants for the program come with a wide range of life experiences and communication skills. These are evaluated along with the individual’s academic transcript. Applicants are expected to have a minimum of a B.Sc. or equivalent degree. Previous coursework needs to include a strong genetics component as well as biochemistry and basic statistics. Coursework in embryology, human anatomy/physiology and psychology/counselling is an asset. It is essential that applicants have one-on-one counselling experience (either paid or volunteer) in a setting such as a Distress Line, Peer Counselling, Hospice, Rape Relief Centre etc. It is also important that candidates have knowledge of the profession and, if possible, experience in a clinical genetics unit. This may be obtained through volunteer work, a Work Study position or a Directed Study project. Due to funding issues, other than individuals from the USA the program is unable to accept international students.

APPLICATION PROCESS

The application deadline is January 15th of each year for all applicants.

The application for entrance into this program consists of the following:

New Applicants

1. Introduction – This is a 2-3 page essay (double spaced, minimum 12 point font, with one inch margins) telling us about yourself and why you are applying to a genetic counselling program. Include how a career in genetic counselling would meet your personal goals and how your past training and experiences have prepared you for this program. Please note: Introductions not meeting the above specifications will not be reviewed.
2. A single page CV (resume) which briefly outlines your academic, volunteer and work experiences. Dates should be included.
3. Three letters of reference – these must be personal letters from individuals who are familiar with your work, academic abilities, volunteer experience and/or personal attributes. It is suggested that one be from an academic reference and one from an individual who can comment on your counselling and communication skills. The remaining letter can be from a reference of your choice. The forms provided by the Faculty of Graduate Studies should NOT be used. These letters must be sent separately by the referee to the Program Secretary or be included in your application in a confidential sealed and signed (by the referee) envelope.
4. Two official copies of transcripts from all universities/colleges attended. To be considered official, all academic records must be received in envelopes which have been sealed and endorsed by the issuing institution.
5. A completed application form for the Faculty of Graduate Studies which can be completed online.
6. Payment of the application fee.
7. TOEFL score for ESL applicants; (minimum score is 600 for paper based and 250 for computer based. For iBT/Next Generation TOEFL, the required minimum score is 100; with an overall band of 7.0 for IELTS; or 87 for MELAB. Score reports more than two years old will not be accepted.)