Genetic Counselors

Assess individual or family risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as genetic disorders and birth defects. Provide information to other healthcare providers or to individuals and families concerned with the risk of inherited conditions. Advise individuals and families to support informed decisionmaking and coping methods for those at risk. May help conduct research related to genetic conditions or genetic counseling.

$98,910

Median Annual Pay

Jobs growth:

+9% projected 2024–2034

Master's degree

Typical Entry-Level Education

What They Do

Genetic counselors work directly with patients and families to explain complex genetic information and help them navigate medical decisions related to inherited conditions. They typically meet with clients who may be pregnant, planning to have children, or concerned about a family history of genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, or certain cancers. During appointments, they review medical histories, order and interpret genetic tests, and explain what results mean in understandable terms. They help clients understand their options and make informed choices about their healthcare, often providing emotional support during difficult conversations.

Programs That Prepare You

College programs linked to this occupation, ranked by graduate earnings

Genetics(masters)Long Island University, NY

Genetics(masters)University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, MI

Genetics(masters)Keck Graduate Institute, CA

Genetics(masters)Albert Einstein College of Medicine, NY

Genetics(masters)Boston University, MA

Genetics(masters)Augustana University, SD

Genetics(masters)Johns Hopkins University, MD

Genetics(masters)Case Western Reserve University, OH

Genetics(masters)Black Hills State University, SD

Genetics(masters)Clemson University, SC

Genetics(masters)Indiana University-Indianapolis, IN

Genetics(masters)Cornell University, NY

Genetics(masters)Dartmouth College, NH

Genetics(masters)Brandeis University, MA

Genetics(masters)Duke University, NC

Genetics(masters)Arcadia University, PA

Genetics(masters)Baylor College of Medicine, TX

Genetics(masters)Iowa State University, IA

Genetics(masters)George Washington University, DC

Genetics(masters)Harvard University, MA

Genetics(masters)Hofstra University, NY

Genetics(masters)Howard University, DC

Genetics(masters)Kansas State University, KS

Genetics(masters)Columbia University in the City of New York, NY

Genetics(masters)Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans, LA

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