MS in Genetic Counseling

The Wayne State University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program is strategically designed to provide students with a robust foundation in medical genetics and genomics, psychosocial counseling, communication skills, research methodology, evidence-based practice, healthcare systems, professional identity, and inclusive practice.

We are housed in the Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics in the Wayne State University School of Medicine. The Center’s outstanding, multidisciplinary faculty and dedication to bridging basic science research and patient care provides an exceptional environment for the genetic counseling graduate program. The Detroit metropolitan area, which is known for its rich cultural and ethnic diversity, affords students the opportunity to learn how to effectively adapt genetic counseling practice to the needs of all patients. Students learn firsthand how social determinants of health and a myriad of other factors affect access to, utilization of, and outcomes of genetic services. Students also begin to develop strategies to mitigate disparities in genomic healthcare.

It is in this setting that the Genetic Counseling Graduate Program strives to fulfill our MISSION:

To train a highly qualified, competent, and diverse genetic counseling workforce to increase access to inclusive, personalized genomics services for the people of Detroit, the State of Michigan and beyond.

Through rich clinical experiences with diverse patient populations in a welcoming and supportive learning environment, our program equips students for competent practice in a wide range of settings. In addition, our program provides students with a strong foundation in the science behind genomics medicine to prepare them to integrate current and future technologies into evidence-based practice. Importantly, we strive to provide a collaborative and inclusive educational environment that is conducive to student learning and developing a sense of belonging in the profession.

Our VISION is:

To create a diverse genetic counseling workforce committed to providing evidence-based, inclusive services, and inspired to address disparities in genomic healthcare so that all people can realize the benefits of precision medicine.

Students typically complete the program in two years (five semesters) on a full-time basis. Approximately eight students are accepted into the genetic counseling program each academic year. The high faculty to student ratio provides the opportunity for individualized instruction and mentoring.

The Genetic Counseling Graduate Program at Wayne State University is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling, Inc., 1660 International Drive, Suite 600, McLean, VA 22102. Telephone: (703) 506 - 7667. Website: www.gceducation.org.

We hope you find the information on our website helpful. Please contact us at geneticcounseling@med.wayne.edu should you have any questions about our program.

Program Accomplishments

Graduation Rate

100% for the last three graduating classes (2023, 2024, 2025)

Genetic Counseling Certification Examination Statistics

For the last three graduating classes (2022, 2023, 2024), the first time board pass rate is 87.5%. The overall first time board pass rate is 94.6%. All individuals who retook the exam passed on the second attempt.

Job Placement Rate

100% of graduates from the classes of 2022, 2023, and 2024 all have positions as a genetic counselor or a related position. In the Class of 2025, 50% individuals secured positions within 3 months of graduation.

Contact Information

Genetic Counseling Graduate Program
Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics
Wayne State University School of Medicine
2375 Scott Hall
540 E. Canfield Avenue
Detroit, MI 48201