FAQs

We plan to accept up to 20 students each year.

The program begins each year in the fall semester. The start date is in mid-August.

MUSC does not require the vaccine for enrollment into classes. However, due to clinical rotations at MUSC Health beginning in the fall semester, our students will be required to submit proof of COVID vaccination (among others) or documentation of declination for clinical access compliance.

Yes, upon successful completion of a master’s degree from an ACGC accredited program, individuals are eligible to take the ABGC board certification exam. Successful completion of the master’s program includes the participatory case experiences required for board exam eligibility.

The first year of the program may be completed remotely. Although coursework throughout both years program may be accessed online from anywhere, most students will need to be in Charleston, SC for clinical rotations beginning summer of the first year, and through fall and/or spring of the second year. The exact schedule and amount of time required at MUSC clinical sites may vary student-to-student, and student preferences will be accommodated to the extent possible. It is important for students to be aware that most of the program’s clinical placements are at MUSC and in surrounding geographical areas, though we are open to remote/away rotation placements as they become feasible. Some MUSC and local clinics offer virtual patient care options and may have opportunity for virtual student engagement and supervision, but this is not guaranteed. If full relocation is not possible, students should, at a minimum, plan on frequent visits to Charleston for clinical experiences once rotations begin. Depending on the scope of thesis project selected, additional on-site time at MUSC in the second year may be beneficial.

Tuition for the program is expected to be $9,000 per semester for in-state students and $12,831 per semester for out-of-state students. The university budget is approved by the Board of Trustees and published each year in June. Official rates for fall 2023 will be published in June 2023.

Yes, financial aid is available. You may find more information on the MUSC Financial Aid Services website. Once enrolled, you may be eligible to apply for one of many scholarships for College of Health professions students.

Yes, applicants need a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. No specific major is required.

The program requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 for consideration.

The program takes a holistic approach to admissions. That means we consider a combination of GPA, relevant work experience, volunteerism, etc., in addition to the interview (if offered).

In addition to a strong GPA, a successful applicant will have a passion for and a clear motivation for pursuing a career in genetic counseling. Other factors the admissions committee may consider are service or volunteer hours, health care experience, or research experience.

Yes, the program accepts online and in-person coursework from any regionally accredited institution.

Yes, you must provide a plan for completing all prerequisite coursework prior to matriculation.