College
- Center City Campus
- College of Life Sciences
Degree Earned
- Master of Science
Program Length
21 months
Program Type
- On Campus
Contact Information
Leadership
Program Information
Frequently Asked Questions
How many students are in each class?
For the fall of 2023, the program admitted a cohort of 10 students.
What is the deadline for admission applications?
The application deadline for Fall 2024 matriculation is January 1, 2024.
Is admission to the program rolling?
No, students are admitted once a year for the fall semester through the match process.
Is it “hard” to get accepted into the program?
Admission to the program is competitive. National statistics indicate that approximately 33% of applicants are accepted in genetic counseling programs.
Do I have to have every prerequisite course completed before I can apply for admission?
A course can be in process at the time of application, however, courses must be completed prior to submission of the rank order list for the match process, which is typically in early April.
Do I have to be a science major to apply to the program?
No, we will consider students with any academic major, as long as all program requirements at met.
Is an interview required?
Yes. All competitive applicants are invited to an interview. Currently, interviews are conducted virtually.
What is the cost of tuition?
Learn more about the cost of tuition for the Master of Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling under Graduate Programs, within the College of Life Sciences by clicking this link: https://www.jefferson.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/tuition-information.html
Are there scholarships available to students enrolled in the program?
Yes! We ensure each enrolled student receives a scholarship. We also offer two additional scholarships to individuals from under-presented groups within the genetic counseling profession.
Does Thomas Jefferson University offer financial aid?
Yes, for more information please visit our Office of Financial Aid.
How long is the program?
The program is completed in 21 months by most students, with an option for later graduation within the academic year if supplemental time is needed for clinical or research experiences.
Can I complete the program on a part-time basis?
Not at this time.
Can I work while completing the Genetic Counseling Program?
The program curriculum is rigorous and courses are scheduled to allow ample time for clinical rotation experiences and educational experiences. If a student works while enrolled in the program, a job with limited, flexible hours is necessary to work around course and clinical schedules, and allow time for study.
Is housing available on-campus?
Yes, Thomas Jefferson University has several on-campus housing options for students. For more information on both on-campus and off-campus housing, please visit our Office of Housing and Residence Life.
Will I need access to a car while I am a student?
Having access to transportation is required to access clinical rotation experiences. Access to a car is encouraged as public transportation is not available to all potential rotation sites.
Please visit the Commuter Services Office (CSO) website, which provides information & discounts for transportation and parking assistance to employees and students of Thomas Jefferson University.
What types of clinical rotations are available?
Numerous opportunities exist for clinical rotations throughout the greater Philadelphia area. All students complete core rotations in prenatal, cancer and pediatric/general genetics, as well as a specialty ocular genetics rotation. Opportunities for rotations in other specialty areas, for example, cardio or neuro genetics, or laboratory/industry are also possible. Arrangements may also be possible for students interested in completing a specific rotation in another geographic area during the summer term of the program.
Are there opportunities for inter-professional education?
Inter-professional education is highly valued and encouraged. Some courses within the program are taken with other students at the University to promote collaboration, knowledge of other fields, and camaraderie. Students also participate in the Jefferson Health Mentors Program through the Jefferson Center for Inter-professional Practice and Education. Lastly, shared study spaces, conferences and special educational events are also available.
Can I visit the program?
Please contact Admissions to schedule a time to visit campus at enroll@jefferson.edu or 215-951-2800.