About the UConn Genetic Counseling Program
Genetic counselors help people understand what genetics means for their health and their families, turning complex genomic information into clear, compassionate guidance. At the University of Connecticut, we prepare the next generation of these professionals through Connecticut's first and only genetic counseling program.
Our program is the only genetic counseling program that is designated as a Professional STEM Master's (PSM) program. Students begin clinical and professional development training in their first weeks of training and graduate ready to sit for the national certification exam and enter the workforce as Certified Genetic Counselors. We welcomed our first cohort in 2023 and proudly celebrated their graduation in 2025.
What is a Professional STEM Master's?
A Professional STEM Master's (PSM) is a specific designation of a Master of Science (MS) degree that intentionally incorporates professional competency coursework to prepare graduates for careers inside and outside of clinical genetic and genomic medicine.
The UConn GC PSM offers rigorous training in genetics and genomics while also building the professional skills employers seek most: communication, leadership, adaptability, management and advanced problem- solving skills.
As the field of genetic counseling expands beyond clinical settings, our program prepares graduates to enter careers in not only clinical practice, but industry, research, business, government, and nonprofit organizations. Genetic counselors bring unique and highly valuable insight to each of these sectors, making our graduates attractive to a broad range of employers.
Why UConn for your genetic counseling degree?
- Comprehensive training at a Tier 1 research University provides you ample opportunities and resources for an impactful capstone research project
- A Professional STEM Master's that builds workplace-ready and transferable skills that employers prefer
- Rotations begin in the first semester, engaging you in real practice from the start
- Long, immersive placements: six 10-week rotations that let you build genuine depth, skill, and relationships at each site
- A wide range of enrichment rotations, so you can explore the specialties and unique settings that match your interests
- Flexible online asynchronous classes, plus a $2,000 annual stipend to help offset fieldwork costs
- A community that celebrates individuality and diversity, in service of better genomic literacy and health for all