Molecular Genetics: Genetic Counselling MSc

The Master of Science (MSc) program is a full-time degree program (non-thesis) that prepares students with 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.

MSc Program

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.

Completion 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.

      • MSC2010Y Molecular Medicine in Human Genetic Disease

      • MMG1120Y Clinical Rotations I

      • MMG1122Y Issues in Genetic Counselling I

      • MMG1124Y Principles of Effective Counselling

      • MMG1126Y Clinical Issues in Pregnancy and Child Development

      • MMG1128Y Risk Calculation and Research Methodology

      • MMG1130Y Tutorial in Molecular Genetics

      • MMG1132H Laboratory Skills

      • MMG1220Y Clinical Rotations II

      • MMG1222Y Issues in Genetic Counselling II

      • MMG1224Y Advanced Principles of Effective Counselling

      • MMG1226Y Concepts in Clinical Genetics

      • MMG1228Y Independent Research Project

      • MMG1230H Cancer Genetic Counselling.

    • 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).

Mode of Delivery: In person
Program Length: 6 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: FWS-FWS)
Time Limit: 3 years full-time

 

Molecular Genetics