About the Program

woman receives verbal counseling while counselor takes notes

The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling (MSGC) at MUSC is a 58-credit hour, five-semester hybrid program. The program is a well-balanced academic and clinically-based program dedicated to teaching practice-based competencies in a compassionate, safe, and evidence-based patient care environment. Students are exposed to a rigorous education curriculum. A majority of coursework is offered online and asynchronously, allowing students to complete didactic components at a time and location of choice. During the first year, students are not required to relocate or visit the MUSC campus in Charleston, SC. 

Students begin simulated patient counseling in the first spring semester and move into supervised clinical placements in the first summer semester to develop real-world counseling skills. Over the course of summer and the second year, students are exposed to a variety of clinical settings in order to develop knowledge and skills across major genetic counseling practice areas and other settings. The majority of clinical placements will be in South Carolina. Students should plan to relocate for the second year or have a plan in place for frequent in-person visits to the area for clinical rotation experiences. There may be some opportunities for placement outside of South Carolina or via Telehealth. Read more about our clinical education.

Students will conduct a thesis project over the course of the program, with guidance from a thesis committee. Supplemental activities such as teaching and professional engagement ensure a balanced training experience in the profession of genetic counseling.

Upon completion of this 21-month program, the student will be awarded a Master of Science (MS) Degree in Genetic Counseling.

Program Objectives

  • To provide the clinical science for genetic counselors to practice in prenatal, general, cancer and specialty genetics settings.
  • To provide medical and psychosocial assessment skills necessary to facilitate a genetic counseling session.
  • To impart scholarly contributions to the field of genetic counseling.
  • Graduates are prepared for the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) Board Certification Exam.
  • Graduates contribute to the genetic counseling workforce and adhere to the NSGC Code of Ethics.

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Students demonstrate advanced knowledge of prenatal, general, cancer and specialty genetics.
  • Students conduct accurate and appropriate patient assessment and counseling.
  • Graduates are able to engage in applied research relevant to clinical practice.
  • Graduates obtain ABGC certification.
  • Graduates obtain employment in genetic counseling and adhere to the NSGC Code of Ethics.

Mission

To equitably and inclusively engage the next generation of genetic counselors in cutting-edge genomics education, clinical practice and research. Program graduates will be equipped to practice in precision healthcare, serve diverse populations, and engage in the rapidly evolving landscape of genetics and genomics to advance scientific discovery, education and community health. 

Vision

To be a nationally recognized genetic counseling educational program that graduates highly sought after, innovative genetic counseling leaders. 

Values

  • Integrity 
  • Diversity and Inclusion 
  • Evidence-based Education 
  • Professional Advocacy 
  • Wellness 
  • Innovation 

Genetic Counseling Student Association

Founded by the inaugural MSGC class of 2025, the Genetic Counseling Student Association (GCSA), aims to enhance student engagement within the MSGC program, as well as increase awareness of the MSGC program and the genetic counseling profession as a whole. Students saw an opportunity to establish the organization in order to meet the needs of the MSGC program and students. The GCSA is open to all students enrolled in the program at MUSC, with additional leadership opportunities available on the GCSA Officer Committee. The Officer Committee is made up of the following roles:

  • President
  • Vice President
  • Communications Chair
  • Social Chair
  • 1st Year Representative

In addition to maintaining the operations of the GCSA, participation on the Officer Committee provides leadership opportunities within the MSGC program. For the 2024-2025 school year, the GCSA Officer Committee hopes to implement monthly program newsletters, student resource banks, in-person and virtual social events, journal club, lunch and learns, and future alumni outreach.

Student Services

Genetic counseling students have access to robust and varied services designed to support diverse students throughout their academic journey. These include disability services, diversity offices, the Center for Academic Excellence and Writing Center, Counseling and Psychological Services, student organizations and more.