Biology – Genetic Counseling School Track

Complete your undergraduate genetic counseling degree requirements at �黨Ӱ�� and be prepared to work as a Genetic Counseling Assistant or apply to a genetic counseling master’s program after graduation.

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What is Genetic Counseling?

Genomic medicine, the study of genes in clinical care, is reshaping healthcare by offering insights into the genetic basis of diseases and developing personalized treatment plans. Understanding genetic information is crucial for diagnostic accuracy and tailored therapeutic strategies that improve patient outcomes.

Experts in this field assess the genetics of an individual or family to understand the probability of developing genetic diseases or conditions. Afterwards, they meet with patients to discuss issues regarding the diagnoses, including the choice to have children, preparing for medical treatment, and even possible genetic intervention.

Enrolling in a genetic counseling degree program at �黨Ӱ�� in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to either immediately enter the workforce as a Genetic Counseling Assistant or pursue a master’s degree and become a Certified Genetic Counselor.

a couple in a meeting with a genetic counselor, a graduate of a genetic counseling education program

Genetic Counseling Curriculum

Our courses are designed to meet post-graduate requirements for either an assistant position or to continue education to get a master’s degree. We will give you a strong foundation in genetic counseling through a concentration within the biology major. Students learn essential knowledge in biology, psychology, chemistry, and statistics— key expertise areas needed for entry-level roles and graduate study in this highly competitive field.

With approximately 50 graduate programs in genetic counseling nationwide, we want our students to have an edge over typical biology or psychology majors. In fact, our students access hands-on experience with powerful genomic tools like LaserGene by DNAStar and have opportunities to be involved in genetic research beginning their very first year.

“As a research student, I not only met people who became life-long friends but also gained various skills and confidence that would be influential on my path to becoming a genetic counselor. In addition to my biology courses, I felt challenged in the liberal arts courses, which allowed me to become a well-rounded individual.”

Claire Jones ’18, M.S., CGC

Licensed, Certified Genetic Counselor and Research Coordinator, Geisinger Genomic Medicine Institute

professional portrait of Claire Jones, a biology graduate from �黨Ӱ��

What can you do with a genetic counseling degree?

A genetic counseling degree opens doors to diverse career options in healthcare and research. Genetic counselors can work in hospitals, private practices, research institutions, and public health organizations. Opportunities are now emerging in genetics education, telehealth, pharmaceutical companies, and biotechnology firms.

Graduates are encouraged to pursue advanced education by becoming certified genetic counselors and exploring master’s programs at:

Geisinger College of Health Sciences
University of Pennsylvania
Thomas Jefferson University
University of Pittsburgh

This is the perfect time to pursue a genetic counseling degree. The genetic counseling profession is growing, with an increasing demand for professionals skilled in interpreting genetic data and providing patient support. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for genetic counselors is projected to grow significantly by 16%. This trend is driven by advances in genetic testing and a growing demand for genetic health services.

What makes the King’s genetic counseling program different?

The �黨Ӱ�� genetic counseling program offers a rare opportunity for undergraduates to explore all aspects of genetic counseling, including in-depth courses in genetics, psychology, and statistics as well as learning important techniques as you conduct research in the field of genetics.

Here is what makes our genetic counseling degree program unique:

Hands-on research: students engage in meaningful projects as early as their first year that apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. This practical experience deepens understanding and fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Early field experience: beyond classroom and laboratory experiences, there are workshops and internship opportunities throughout your undergraduate education. This allows students to gain insights into genetic disorders, family dynamics, and ethical considerations in a supportive academic environment
Preparedness to earn a master’s degree: our program offers all the prerequisites to enroll in a master's program upon graduation, enhancing the educational journey and positioning graduates to become a certified genetic counselor. Our program also has connections to obtain a genetic counseling assistant position immediately after graduation to further augment your application to a future master’s program.
Strong faculty-student interaction: at King’s, our deliberately small class sizes ensure each student receives personal attention in the classroom, the lab, and beyond. Every King’s student receives an elevated level of personal attention on our beautiful campus.

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We welcome all potential students and their families to visit our beautiful campus and get a taste of the King’s College experience. Feel free to schedule a personal visit or register for one of our upcoming admission events.