Skip to main content

Master of Science in Genetic Counseling

book_2 Learning Mode: Hybrid

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling (MSGC) at MUSC is a hybrid program blending online coursework with immersive clinical training. Students complete  didactic courses asynchronously during the first year without relocating, then transition to supervised clinical placements beginning in the summer, primarily in South Carolina. Training includes simulated counseling, diverse rotations, and a faculty-mentored thesis, ensuring graduates are prepared with the knowledge, skills, and compassion to excel as professional genetic counselors.

Application Timeline

Fall 2026 GCAM Registration
Sep 3, 2025 – Dec 1, 2025

MUSC Supplemental Application
Sep 15, 2025 – Dec 1, 2025

 

Apply Request Information Supplemental Application

Learning Experience

Experience structured coursework grounded in medical genetics and counseling theory alongside varied clinical rotations in real-world settings to sharpen communication and technical proficiency. 

Inside the Program

The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling (MSGC) at MUSC is a well-balanced academic and clinically-based hybrid 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. The 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, South Carolina.

Students begin simulated telehealth 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. Most 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.

Students will conduct a small group 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.

Student Association

Established by the inaugural Class of 2025, the Genetic Counseling Student Association (GCSA) fosters connection, engagement, and professional growth within the MSGC program. The organization also works to raise awareness of both the program and the genetic counseling profession more broadly. Open to all MUSC MSGC students, GCSA offers opportunities for involvement at every level, with additional leadership roles available through the Officer Committee. The Officer Committee includes the following positions: 

  • 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. The GCSA Officer Committee has implemented monthly program newsletters, student resource banks, in-person and virtual social events. The GCSA also works closely with our MSGC Alumni representative to keep alumni engaged with the program.

Curriculum

Year 1, Fall B (8/25/25–12/12/25)
GENEC601 Genetic Counseling Principles 3
GENEC602 Medical Genetics 2
GENEC603 Fetal and Prenatal Genetics 3
GENEC604 Principles of Counseling 2
GENEC605 Genetic Counseling Research 2
Semester Total 12
Year 1, Spring (1/5/26–5/1/26)
GENEC606 Cancer Genomics 3
GENEC607 Health & Genetic Deviation 3
GENEC608 Laboratory Methods 1
GENEC609 Principles of Public Health 2
GENEC631 Clinical Practicum I 1
GENEC641 Thesis Preparation I 2
Semester Total 12
Year 1, Summer B, Trailer (5/27/26–8/7/26)
GENEC632 Clinical Practicum II 6
GENEC642 Thesis Preparation II 2
GENEC651 Professional Issues I 2
Semester Total 10
Year 2, Fall B (8/25/25–12/12/25)
GENEC610 Advanced Genetics Topics 2
GENEC611 Advanced Genetic Counseling 2
GENEC652 Professional Issues II 1
GENEC633 Clinical Practicum III 5
GENEC643 Thesis Preparation III 2
Semester Total 12
Year 2, Spring (1/5/26–5/1/26)
GENEC612 Journal Club 1
GENEC613 Case Conference 1
GENEC653 Professional Issues III 2
GENEC634 Clinical Practicum IV 5
GENEC644 Thesis Preparation IV 3
Semester Total 12
Curriculum Total 58

 

Clinical Education

Students in the MUSC Master of Science in Genetic Counseling (MSGC) program receive 17 credit hours of clinical practicum experience over the course of the program. Each student will rotate in a variety of practice settings including prenatal, cancer, pediatrics and general genetics.  Students have an opportunity for specialty experience in laboratory, research, and specialty practice areas such as cardiology and neurology based on student interest and rotation availability. Students will practice genetic counseling using multiple service delivery models, from traditional clinical care models to telehealth and remote service delivery. The MSGC program ensures that all students gain exposure in a variety of genetic counseling settings and achieve the practice-based competencies outlined by the Accreditation Council of for genetic counseling (PDF). 

The clinical experience begins in the second semester (spring of year one) with simulated patient counseling. Students are paired with a classmate for telehealth genetic counseling of simulated patients in a variety of clinical scenarios.  

Students begin rotations in real-world professional settings in summer of year one. The summer rotation will be one-month full-time or equivalent. Real-world placements continue through the second year, with two placements in each of fall and spring semesters. In these rotations, students build skills commensurate with experience and under the supervision of a practicing certified genetic counselor. While a rotation may begin with observation, by advanced stages of the rotation/program, students will take on many or all roles with patients/clients under supervision. A minimum of 50 participatory cases gathered across all rotation placements is required per student for graduation. 

A majority of clinical rotations offered through this program utilize the MUSC genetic counselors and MUSC clinics (most of which are in person, though some offer remote services and supervision opportunities). MUSC rotation opportunities include prenatal, cancer, pediatric/general, cardiovascular, neurology, pulmonary, laboratory and research. The MSGC has affiliation agreements with Greenwood Genetics Center and Summerville Medical Center to offer rotation placements in these outside facilities in South Carolina, which also offer a breadth of clinical experiences and formats. The MSGC Program also has affiliations for non-patient-facing rotations in other areas such as laboratories and advocacy.  Most students will also have the opportunity to complete an away/elective rotation. The MSGC will facilitate the best placement possible based on student geographical and practice area preferences and needs. Students may also solicit their own opportunities and work with the MSGC Director of Clinical Training  to execute appropriate agreements and plans. 

If you would like more information about hosting genetic counseling students at your institution or are interested in teaching opportunities within the Medical University of South Carolina’s genetic counseling training program, please reach out to Tara Hart. 

Engage with our community

Join us for virtual information sessions, student ambassador Q&As, and other opportunities to learn about our program.

CHP Staff

Doctor of Health Administration Virtual Info Session

  • calendar_today Tuesday, Dec. 2
CHP Staff

Residential Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Virtual Info Session

  • calendar_today Wednesday, Dec. 3
CHP Staff

Hybrid Doctor of Physical (Hybrid DPT) On- Campus Info Session

  • calendar_today Thursday, Dec. 4
See All Events

Your path to admission

Discover key information about application steps and required documentation to help you move forward with confidence.

Eligibility Requirements

All applicants must: 

  • Hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in the U.S. or its equivalent from a foreign institution with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. This program calculates cumulative GPA without forgiveness. All courses will be counted. If a course was taken more than once, all grades will be counted. 
  • Complete 24 hours of prerequisite coursework at a regionally accredited institution. Coursework does not need to be complete to apply, but a reasonable plan must be in place to complete all coursework before matriculation. In-person and online courses are accepted. 

Minimum Abilities

At MUSC, we actively support all students to ensure their success in both academic and clinical settings. To support this goal, the university outlines the essential qualities and functional abilities required for participation in its educational programs. These include a range of observational, communication, motor, intellectual and behavioral skills necessary for safe and effective practice. You can view the full list of minimum abilities by visiting the Minimum Abilities page.

Prerequisites

Prerequisite Coursework Credit Hours
Biochemistry 3
General Biology 6
General Chemistry 6
General Psychology 3
Genetics 3
Statistics 3

Additional Notes

  • Advanced placement and dual enrollment courses are accepted for prerequisite courses so long as the course appears on your college transcript. 

Frequently Approved Prerequisites

Before applying, it's essential to ensure that any prior coursework meets the admissions requirements. MUSC provides a helpful reference list of frequently approved prerequisite courses to guide you in understanding which classes may satisfy your program's requirements. To explore the list, visit our Frequently Approved Prerequisites page.

Application Process

  1. Submit the Genetic Counselor Educators Association (GCEA) GC Match Application as early as possible. After the application is received, it usually takes four to six weeks to process and verify the application. The application must be verified by the application deadline to be eligible for review. 
  2. Complete the MUSC application. 
  3. Once both applications are complete and the GCEA GC Match application has been verified, the application will be reviewed. 
  4. Selected applicants will be contacted for virtual interviews with the admissions committee. 
  5. Students will receive match results from the National Match System in April 2026. Those who match will receive a formal offer letter within 10 days. 

Admissions Timeline

Virtual Interviews Feb – Mar 2026
Match Results Available Apr 2026
Admission Offers Made Apr 2026
Classes Begin Aug 2026

Application Requirements

  1. GCEA GC Match Application: All applicants must submit the GCEA GC Match Application. 
  2. MUSC Application: All applicants must submit an MUSC application. 
    • Official transcripts from all institutions attended 
  3. Supplemental Materials: Applicants will need to submit supplemental materials. These will be sent to the applicant via email once an application has been successfully completed. 
    • Letters of recommendation: All applicants must provide three academic or professional references from individuals who know them, or their abilities. Personal references are not acceptable. 
    • Personal essay: All applicants must write a brief essay, not to exceed 1,000 words, explaining their interest in the program, past related experiences, and why they believe they’re a good candidate for the profession. The applicant should also describe the resources they used in researching the genetic counseling profession as a career choice and address any experience with online learning and interest in the unique structure of the program. 
    • Resume: All applicants must provide an updated resume detailing relevant academic and professional experience, including research experience, volunteer experience, and exposure to the genetic counseling profession. 
    • TOEFL scores: Official copy of TOEFL scores if English is not the applicant’s native language, and they have not studied within the United States. 

All information above must be received by the deadline to be considered for admission to the program. Without all materials, applications will be incomplete. It is the applicant's responsibility to review the progress of their application to ensure that all application materials have been submitted. Applicants are responsible for reviewing the progress of their GCEA GC application.

International Applicants

This program is unable to admit international students requiring an F-1 visa. Applications will only be accepted from U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or those holding other valid nonimmigrant visa classifications that allow participation in lawful study while in the United States. 

Prospective Student Resources

Shadow or Interview a Genetic Counselor

The MUSC prospective student shadowing and interview program is at capacity and not currently able to schedule prospective students. However, if you are interested in these opportunities, please submit the interest form below. We will contact prospective students in the order of receipt if opportunities become available.  

Shadowing and/or informational interviews with a genetic counselor are great ways to learn about the profession; however, these are not admissions requirements of the program and shadowing at MUSC will not impact an admissions decision for our program. 

To get started, please complete our interest form. After your submission is received, we will identify an MUSC sponsor and confirm availability, and you will be contacted to schedule your experience. You will also need to meet the requirements outlined on the Career Exploration Program website and complete the MUSC Career Exploration form. Please note that the Career Exploration approval process can take up to 30 days. 

Aspiring Genetic Counselor Resources

This is a compilation of resources that may be helpful for aspiring genetic counseling students. These resources and documents were gathered from publicly available websites and were not created by MUSC. Please note these resources do not reflect the specific aims or ideals of MUSC or any specific genetic counseling program.  

Preparation

Application

Online Genetic Counseling Case Studies

 

Why MUSC was the right choice

Students choose MUSC for its expert faculty, personalized guidance, and a program culture built around trust, collaboration, and student success.

MUSC MSGC: About the Program
Genetic Counseling: Science vs. People Skills

Funding your path forward

Learn how MUSC supports students through scholarship opportunitiesand financial education tailored to your academic journey.

Tuition

Fee Type Fee
Application Fee (per application) $85
Matriculation Fee (upon applicant acceptance) $500

Tuition and fees listed below are per semester unless otherwise noted.

Tuition/Fee Type Fall Spring Summer Annual
In-state Tuition $9,000 $9,000 $9,000 -
Out-of-state Tuition $13,300 $13,300 $13,300 -
Program Fee $800 $800 $800 -

Cost of Attendance

Item Year 1 Year 2 Est. Total*
Direct Costs
Tuition - In-state/Out-of-state $27,000 / $39,000 $18,000 / $26,600 $45,000 / $65,600
Fees $2,400 $1,600 $4,000
Health Insurance $3,780 $3,780 $7,560
Direct Costs Subtotal $33,180 / $46,080 $23,380 / $31,980 $56,560 / $77,160
Indirect Costs
Housing/Food $22,620 $18,096 $40,716
Personal $2,400 $1,920 $4,320
Transportation $2,700 $2,160 $4,860
Books/Required Expenses $4,360 $4,360 $8,720
Indirect Costs Subtotal $32,080 / $32,080 $25,536 / $25,536 $58,616 / $58,616
Total - In-state/Out-of-state $65,260 / $78,680 $49,916 / $58,516 $115,176 / $135,776

Disclaimer: The Estimated Total listed above reflects an approximation of educational costs for planning purposes only. Actual expenses may vary based on individual circumstances, program requirements and annual changes in tuition, fees and other costs. The Medical University of South Carolina reserves the right to adjust tuition, fees and other charges at any time without prior notice.

Scholarships

MUSC offers scholarships for which you may be eligible. Some are awarded based on academic achievement; others are awarded based on community service, for example. However, the majority of scholarships awarded at MUSC are based on financial need. This means that these scholarships are only awarded to students who need some financial assistance to cover the cost of tuition and fees. If you would like to be considered for a financial need-based scholarship, you must have an up-to-date Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on file. Make sure you list the Medical University of South Carolina on your FAFSA form, along with MUSC's code: 003438. We encourage you to submit your FAFSA as early as possible. It is recommended to submit your FAFSA in January if you plan to enroll in the fall. 

Click here to visit our scholarship application system to view a complete listing of MUSC scholarships.

Career Outlook

High-demand counseling careers

Genetic counselors guide patients through complex health decisions. With a median salary of $98K and projected job growth of 16%, it’s a rewarding and in-demand career. 

Program Outcomes

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for certification, professional placement, and continued impact within evolving healthcare environments.

Graduation Rates

The first cohort of the Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program graduated in May 2025. Program outcome data will be available in fall 2025.

Program Statistics

Class of 2025 Class of 2026 Class of 2027
Entering Class Size 14 16 20
Graduates 14
Attrition Rate 0
Graduation Rate 100%

Exam Pass Rates

The first cohort of the Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program graduated in May 2025.  

Cumulative First-Time Board Examination Pass Rate 

Board Examination Results

Year Overall Pass Rate
2025 82%

Employment Rates

The first cohort of the Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program graduated in May 2025. Job placement rates will be available in fall 2025.

Program Faculty

Kimberly Foil, MS, CGC

Assistant Professor
mail foilk@musc.edu call 1-843-792-6951 View Faculty Profile open_in_new

Assistant Professor and Division Director
843-792-6951 , foilk@musc.edu

Libby Malphrus, MS, CGC

mail malphrue@musc.edu call 843-792-6493 View Faculty Profile open_in_new

Libby Malphrus has been a certified genetic counselor for over 20 years and is a South Carolina native. As a cancer survivor with a strong family history of cancer, Libby is passionate about helping individuals understand the impact of genetics in cancer prevention, screening and treatment.

Tara R. Hart, MS, CGC

mail harttar@musc.edu call 1-854-200-0374 View Faculty Profile open_in_new

Instructor and Director of Clinical Training
854-200-0374 , harttar@musc.edu
View All Program Faculty

Admissions Frequently Asked Questions

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

A minimum 3.0 GPA is needed for admission to the program.  The average GPA of incoming classes is 3.5-3.7.

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 strong passion and 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.

Learning Experience Frequently Asked Questions

We plan to accept 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 American Board of Genetic Counseling Board (ABGC) 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, South Carolina, 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 when feasible. Some MUSC and local clinics offer virtual patient care options and may have opportunities 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.

Living in Charleston

Charleston offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and modern convenience. With top-rated dining, scenic waterfronts and endless outdoor activities, the city offers an unmatched quality of life for residents, striking a balance between work and leisure.

Discover Charleston

Guided by Purpose and Principles

This program actively fosters a commitment to service, inclusion, and ethical practice, equipping professionals to lead effectively in both clinical and community settings.

Objectives

The MSGC program aims to prepare graduates to: 

  • Deliver expert genetic counseling across prenatal, general, cancer, and specialty care settings 
  • Integrate medical knowledge with psychosocial assessment to guide and support patients through the counseling process 
  • Advance the profession through scholarly contributions and evidence-based practice 
  • Strengthen the genetic counseling workforce while upholding the highest professional and ethical standards set by the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) 

 

 

Competencies

Upon completion of the MSGC program, graduates will be able to: 

  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge of prenatal, general, cancer, and specialty genetics 
  • Conduct accurate and appropriate patient assessment and counseling
  • Engage in applied research relevant to clinical practice
  • Obtain ABGC certification
  • Obtain employment in genetic counseling and adhere to the NSGC Code of Ethics

Vision

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

Mission

To 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 and engage in the rapidly evolving landscape of genetics and genomics to advance scientific discovery, education, and community health.

Values

At the core of our program, we are guided by a commitment to the following values that drive our mission:

  • Integrity
  • Evidence-based Education 
  • Professional Advocacy 
  • Wellness Innovation 

Stories worth sharing

Explore how students, faculty, and alumni are advancing genetic counseling through leadership, discovery, and compassionate patient care.

Neuroscience Research + College of Health Professions
NIH awards MUSC researcher $6.5M grant for precision neurorehab center
Woman on stairs with female provider DSC00296-Enhanced-NR-WEB
Division of Physical Therapy + College of Health Professions
5 Benefits of a Physical Therapy Residency at MUSC
Division of Physician Assistant Studies + College of Health Professions
New hybrid option in the works at MUSC for people who want to become PAs
Read More Stories

Accreditation & Recognition

With accreditation and a commitment to student success, this program offers the skills, support, and clinical experience you need to thrive as a genetic counselor.

The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program at the Medical University of South Carolina is accredited as a New Program (2022-2026) by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling, Inc., 7918 Jones Branch Drive, Suite 300, McLean, VA 22102; telephone: 703-506-7667; website: https://www.gceducation.org. 

Whereas accreditation applies to training programs, certification applies to individuals. Our program qualifies students to take the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) Certified Genetic Counselor (CGC) exam. 

Essential Resources