Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling

Overview

Welcome to the Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling Program at Thomas Jefferson University. Our program is a 19-month Master’s level experience grounded in basic science and diversified through psychosocial education and varied clinical and research opportunities.

The National Society of Genetic Counselors (2005) defines genetic counseling as the process of helping people understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease.  This process integrates:

• Interpretation of family and medical histories to assess the chance of disease occurrence or recurrence.
• Education about inheritance, testing, management, prevention, resources and research.
• Counseling to promote informed choices and adaptation to the risk or condition.

Genetic counseling is a rapidly expanding and diversifying profession that offers opportunities for practice in a wide variety of settings, such as hospitals/clinics, academia, laboratories, government agencies, public health, consulting and advocacy.  Clinical practice areas encompass many specialties including prenatal, pediatrics, cardiology, neurology, metabolic disorders, infertility, cancer, etc.  As a profession that blends scientific information with clinical, ethical, psychological and legal implications, genetic counselors have a uniquely satisfying and rewarding career that is in high demand.