MSc Genetic Counselling: The University of Manchester

Course description

This programme was established in 1992 as the first training programme for genetic counsellors in Europe.

In the UK, most genetic counselling is provided in Regional Genetic Services, by multidisciplinary teams including medically-trained, specialist clinical geneticists and genetic counsellor colleagues. Genetic counsellors contribute particularly to the educative and psychosocial aspects of genetic counselling.

There is a professional organisation, the Association of Genetic Nurses and Counsellors (AGNC), which is a sub-group of the British Society for Human Genetics. Professional registration is awarded through the UK Genetic Counsellor Registration Board, and the MSc awarded by this programme is a recognised entry qualification for this. Course content is linked to practice-based competencies as defined by professional bodies.

Course aims

The programme aims to:

• Provide academic and vocational training for professional genetic counsellors to work in the UK and overseas
• Equip students with the necessary skills to enable them to contribute to the research and development of the profession
• Promote awareness of the importance of the psychosocial impact of human genetic technology among patients, health and social care professionals and the wider society

Career opportunities

The majority of graduates go on to work as genetic counsellors in NHS Regional Genetic Services. Other graduates have gone on to work as genetic counsellors in other countries in Europe, North America, Australasia and the Middle East.

Some students have gone on to research posts (including PhD studentships) particularly in psychosocial genetic counselling research, and in education and public engagement in genetics.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview:

• Honours degree, preferably in one of the biological sciences, nursing or psychology
• Minimum 6 months full-time equivalent working in a caring role (this may be through previous professional work (e.g. nursing/social work) or in a voluntary capacity
• A proven interest and understanding of the genetic counselling profession. Applicants are expected to demonstrate this through reflection on background reading and where possible contact with practicing genetic counsellors

English language:

English language requirement if English not first language: TOEFL score 600 minimum or IELTS 7.0 minimum, and assessment at interview.