Genetic Counseling Graduate Program

The graduate program in genetic counseling is designed to integrate scientific knowledge and counseling skills with a variety of clinical, laboratory and supplemental experiences. The diverse population found in the greater Detroit area provides a unique opportunity to explore how ethnic and cultural differences influence the effectiveness of clinical genetic services and the genetic counseling process.

The program’s curriculum consists of course work, clinical internships, and a research project. Theory and techniques of counseling, human and medical genetics, molecular biology, and genetic counseling are among the required courses. The Detroit Medical Center and surrounding metropolitan hospitals offer the clinical sites where students receive supervised experience working with individuals and families affected with a broad range of genetic disorders. Additional rotations include training in three clinical genetics service laboratories and exposure to disease-specific subspecialty clinics.

The program's overall goal is to provide students with an educational environment to develop the skills, knowledge and attitudes as outlined in the Practice Based Competencies (PBC) developed by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) to function successfully as productive and responsible genetic counselors in a variety of work settings. Students are expected to complete the program in two years (five semesters) on a full-time basis.

Up to six students are accepted into the genetic counseling program each academic year. The program has achieved “Full Accreditation” by ABGC.