Applying to Programs: Factors to Consider

The Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling has a list of all accredited programs in the United States and Canada.

Program Directory: https://www.gceducation.org/program-directory/

With 40+ programs in the United States (and growing!), how do you decide where to apply? These are some of the factors you may want to consider.

• Location:
• You will spend 2 years of your life at your genetic counseling program and it's best to be somewhere you feel comfortable. Is it important for you to be close to friends and family? Also, consider the cost of living in the area. Tuition is not your only expense! 
• When Clinical Rotations Start:
• At some programs, you may not begin clinical rotations until the summer (after 2 semesters), while in other programs you may be observing in clinics within a few weeks. It all depends on your preference. 
• Length of Clinical Rotations:
• Would you rather have shorter rotations (4-6 weeks), but be able to rotate in a larger variety of clinics? Or would you prefer longer rotations (10-12 weeks), where you experience one clinic in more depth?
• Opportunities for Lab/Industry Rotation and Opportunities for Specialty Rotations:
• Are you interested in exploring non-clinical settings? Some schools may require you to do a rotation in a lab or industry setting, others may offer it as an option, and for other programs, it may not even be a possibility. 
• Are you particularly interested in a subspecialty field, such as cardiovascular genetics or neurogenetics? Look for programs where you may have opportunities to gain experience or do rotations in that particular specialty. 
• Research:
• Look at past student's projects (most program websites have them listed.) If there is a topic you have in mind that you would like to do your thesis on, would that program be able to support your research? Also, some programs offer a class in the basics of clinical research. If you don't have much experience in this area, this may be an option to consider. 
• Career/Professional Development:
• Networking is important! Also, consider how the program supports its students' transition into the workforce. Some programs offer a class or seminar on topics such as writing cover letters, finding your first job, negotiating salary, etc.  
• Curriculum:
• There are a few things to consider. Are most of the classes scheduled for the first year or are they more spaced out? Do you have a preference? Are there specific courses you want to take? Some programs offer unique courses, such as cardiovascular genetics. Schools may also offer different dual-degree options or have opportunities to take electives with social work, public health, or med students if that is something that interests you. 
• Class Size:
• Would you prefer a small class of only 4-6 students? Would you prefer a larger class size, with up to 20? This is really a matter of preference and there is no right or wrong answer! 
• Extracurricular Opportunities:
• Are you interested in participating in a program like LEND (Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities?) Do you want to go somewhere that emphasizes engagement with the community or involvement with advocacy work outside the classroom? There are so many opportunities that different programs offer!

I hope this list helps you as you consider where to apply :)