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We are dedicated to creating and sustaining an educational program that thoroughly equips students for prosperous careers in human genetics, a demanding endeavor given the field's constant evolution. Our teaching and training goals are met through comprehensive undergraduate, graduate, professional, and advanced specialty programs, complemented by guided research and clinical experiences. Gain expertise in human, medical, and public health genetics and genomics along with their associated scientific foundations. Utilize genetic concepts to comprehend disease origins, progression, symptoms, clinical presentation, prognosis, recurrence likelihood, treatment approaches, and preventive measures. Employ genetic knowledge for accurate diagnosis, appropriate testing strategies, interpreting genetic reports, and implementing population screening initiatives.
In addition to the general admission requirements of the VCU Graduate School:
Applicants must have successfully completed undergraduate training and hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited university or college.
Applicants must respond to prompts as noted in the VCU M.S. in Genetic Counseling program application.  
Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation from individuals who can address the student's strengths, potential for graduate study and demonstration of skills needed for competency in genetic counseling. References may include professors, supervisors or other professionals.
Applicants must provide a CV/biosketch that should include education; relevant academic, work and clinical experiences; research and publications; and awards/honors.
Prerequisites for admission include six credit hours (two full-semester courses) each of biology, chemistry and behavioral science. While related course work may be considered (e.g., religion, philosophy), at least one course (three credits) must be in a traditional behavioral science field (psychology, sociology and/or anthropology). Additional prerequisites are three credit hours (one full semester) each of biochemistry, statistics and genetics. It is recommended that all prerequisite courses have been completed within 10 years of application. A prerequisite may be in process at the time of application. Please note that AP high school credits do not satisfy program prerequisites.
For admission to graduate study at VCU, the Graduate School requires a minimum undergraduate grade-point average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale or equivalent); however, the program may waive this requirement as identified through holistic review of an application.