As with all graduate programs, those taking genetic counseling courses must pass graduate school entrance examinations. Most students also have a background in the sciences, having studied biology, genetics, biochemistry, anatomy and physiology and psychology, in addition to statistics classes. In addition, many programs require prospective students to have an understanding of the counseling field by having worked at social service agencies or crisis counseling organizations in settings where one-on-one interactions are common.
As the subject has a number of different facets, individual classes are devoted to the study of various subtypes. Depending on the program, these may include clinical, biochemical, human, perinatal, which includes embryology and teratology, and cancer genetics. Topics discussed in such courses include cytogenetics, oncocytogenetics and population genetics, as well the implications of genetic disease within populations.
Cancer genetics, particularly those for hereditary cancer syndromes, is another important subset. Epidemiology and pathology, clinical characteristics of common and rare hereditary cancers are among the topics covered.
In order to guide patients through the genetic process, prospective counselors must have classes in counseling techniques. Introductory -classes cover basic patient interviewing skills, modes of intervention and how to do research. Upper-level classes may concentrate on counseling for special populations such as women, people with disabilities and ethnic or cultural groups, or for specific problems such as pediatric and adult-onset genetic disorders.
National and community support outside of the clinical setting is a small-but-important facet of some genetic counseling programs. Legal and ethical aspects, however, receive greater attention. Treatment options and insurance coverage or denial thereof may be discussed, in addition to public policy and its effect on health care systems.
One of the most important educational aspects of genetic counseling classes is the hands-on clinical rotation, where students practice what they have learned. Rotations often mirror subtypes of basic genetics classes. Practical rotations may cover general genetics, perinatal, genetics, cancer genetics, specialty areas or research. These courses may consist of a combination of classroom time and work in a clinical setting such as a hospital or a government medical facility. Clinical rotations are performed under the supervision of an ABGC board-certified professional.