Molecular Genetics: Genetic Counselling MSc

Master of Science

Program Description

The MSc program is a full-time degree program (non-thesis) that prepares students with relevant academic knowledge and clinical skills so that upon graduating, they may work as highly competent genetic counsellors in a variety of practice settings. Genetic counsellors are employed in many areas of healthcare, providing genetic assessment and counselling to individuals and families with, or at risk for, a genetic disorder. There is also an increasing demand for genetic counsellors to join genetic/genomic testing laboratories, industry, public health settings, etc. Genetic counsellors are often involved in academic activities including teaching and research, administrative leadership roles, advisory roles for government and/or support organizations, and other precision medicine leadership capacities. This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling.

Minimum Admission Requirements

  • Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Molecular Genetics' additional admission requirements stated below.

  • A four-year undergraduate degree from a recognized university with a minimum B+ average, both cumulatively and in the upper years.

  • Successful completion or proof of current enrolment of undergraduate courses at a recognized university in biology, molecular biology/genetics, biochemistry, embryology/animal developmental biology, statistics, and psychology.

  • The development of strong interpersonal and communication skills, as evidenced by experience in a counselling setting (volunteer or paid).

  • All applicants must register with the National Matching System (NMS); instructions are provided in the department's application procedures.

Program Requirements

  • Students must complete 13.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

    • 10.0 FCEs in coursework with a minimum B– standing. Lectures, meetings, and rounds must be attended at a minimum of 90% of scheduled occurrences.

    • 1.0 FCE independent research project. Students are expected to develop and implement a research study designed and carried out by them under the supervision of a faculty member. The independent research project must be relevant to the field of genetic counselling and/or clinical genetics. Students must present the independent research project both orally and in a written format suitable for publication.

    • 2.0 FCEs in clinical practicums.

  • Students spend a minimum of 21 months over a two-year period in full-time attendance.

  • Students are required to complete an intervening summer rotation (six weeks duration).

Program Length

6 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W/S)

Time Limit

3 years full-time