Welcome from the Directors

The field of genetic counseling is ever-changing, and VCU is at the forefront of training the next generation of skilled, dynamic and compassionate genetic counselors. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling, our M.S. program has doubled in size since 2010. As our impact continues to grow, we maintain a collaborative and supportive environment for all our students, with close-knit cohorts and learning opportunities across diverse multidisciplinary teams.

We believe in learning by doing. Clinical exposure begins early in the first year, and most students acquire at least 100 clinical cases throughout their time at VCU. Graduates of our program hold leadership positions throughout the field, and we are proud to prepare trainees for successful and fulfilling careers as genetic counselors.

Three Directors

Program Overview

Mission

Our mission is to develop and maintain a curriculum that effectively prepares students for successful careers in human genetics, a challenging task for a discipline that reinvents itself on a regular basis. We achieve our education and training objectives by offering undergraduate, graduate, professional and higher-level specialty courses, as well as mentored research and clinical training opportunities.

Alumni Outcomes and Employment

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of genetic counseling is expected to grow at a rate of 18% between 2021 and 2031, well above the rate of growth in other professions. Over that decade, about 300 openings for genetic counselors are projected per year. 

“I find that a lot of our patients feel like they’ve been dismissed by other health care providers, so I let them tell their story. In my own medical journey, I have known the impact of that humanness, and that connection is deeply needed in health care.” Ashlyn Stackhouse, Class of 2022

Read Ashlyn’s story here ❯

Life in Richmond

We encourage our students and trainees to maintain a healthy, balanced life, and Richmond is a wonderful place to engage in that well-rounded lifestyle. As a mid-sized city with a metropolitan population of 1.3 million, Richmond provides stimulating activities while maintaining its intimate feel and unique vibe. 

Learn about our community ❯

Photograph of Richmond city and the James River.

How to Apply

Our program participates in the Genetic Counseling Admissions Match through the National Matching Services, or NMS. Students must first complete the NMS application before applying through the Graduate School at VCU. Admission criteria and degree requirements are available on the VCU Bulletin

Ready to get started?

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Dual degree program clinical space

Contact Us

For more information about the Genetic Counseling M.S. program, please contact: