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 2024, 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 tuition, IT and library fees associated with the Master of Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling program, use the below link to view program information under Graduate Programs, within the College of Life Sciences.
Tuition & Financial Aid Information
In addition to listed fees, students are also responsible for annual costs related to child abuse clearances, background checks, fingerprinting, and drug testing required for clinical rotations.
Are there scholarships available to students enrolled in the program?
Yes! We ensure each enrolled student receives a scholarship.
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?
It is the student’s responsibility to be able to access clinical rotation experiences. Having access to a car is strongly encouraged as public transportation is not available to all potential rotation sites. Students must make their own arrangements to access assigned 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.
Where can I get more information about the student resources at Jefferson related to advising, accessibility, support services, and diversity, equity and inclusion?
At Jefferson, resources to support students are available through the Center for Academic Success. Resources for students regarding diversity, equity and inclusion can be found through the Office of Inclusion, Diversity and Community Engagement.
What have students shared about the program?
- One of the strongest aspects of the program is how thorough and expansive the genetics curriculum is. It’s robust and extremely well designed in terms of the course layout, which makes the rotation experience so amazing.
- Attending rotations in geographically different locations is very helpful.
- It’s always helpful to have genetics given by specialists in their content area. I would rather have the expert than have the same person deliver the information.
- I am confident in my ability to be a successful, well-rounded genetic counselor because of my time at Jefferson!