FAQ

Program FAQ 

Have other questions not listed below? Please email us at uconngcpsm@uconn.edu 

Is the UConn GC PSM Program accredited?

Yes. As of April 2022, the program holds Accredited New Program status with the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC). New Program status applies to an accredited program within four years of opening, before its first ACGC site visit and self-study.

How long is the program, and how many credits?

The program is 22 months and 51 credits: 12 in semester 1, 14 in semester 2, 2 in summer, 13 in semester 3, and 10 in semester 4. It begins in fall only.   

How big is each cohort?

As we are a newer program, we’ve been slowly increasing our recruitment efforts. Our incoming cohort consists of 9 students, and we expect to recruit 10 students to begin in Fall 2027. 

What will travel to rotations be like?

Most rotations are across Connecticut, with partner sites in Providence, Rhode Island, and Maine. We try to coordinate placements in a matched student's home state when desired, but cannot guarantee placement locations in advance.  Students are responsible for arranging their own reliable transport to and from clinic sites. 

What does the program cost, and is funding available?

Full tuition, fees, and financial support details are on Admissions → Costs & financial aid. As a professional degree, the program is financed through personal resources, loans, and financial aid; tuition waivers and teaching assistantships are not available, though every student in good standing receives a $2,000 annual stipend, and internal and external scholarships exist (UConn's Office of National Scholarships & Fellowships). 

Do I have to maintain a minimum GPA?

Yes. A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is required to remain in good standing, along with the program's scholastic standards. 

 

Can I enroll in another degree program at the same time?

No. Students pursue a graduate degree only in the program to which they're admitted. 

Can international students apply?

Because the program coursework is online, we are unable to provide F-1 student visa paperwork. International students residing in the U.S. on a non-F-1 visa should check with UConn ISSS to confirm their visa allows them to enroll in graduate school studies.  

How do I know if genetic counseling is right for me?

We've put together a checklist of tasks and questions to help you explore whether genetic counseling is a good fit, and how to build relevant experience to prepare your application.

Not sure you’re ready to apply?

If you'd like to strengthen your background first, the Institute for Systems Genomics offers other programs including a Graduate Certificate in Clinical Genetics and Genomics, a Graduate Certificate in Communication and Counseling, and an MS in Health Care Genetics. These build familiarity with the field and the rigor of a UConn degree, though they are not ACGC-accredited and don't confer board-exam eligibility, and completion doesn't guarantee admission to the genetic counseling program. 

Application FAQ

What’s the minimum GPA to apply?

A cumulative 3.0, or a 3.0 in your last two undergraduate years, or exceptional final-year work (3.5+), or graduate work with a 3.0+. Meeting the minimum doesn't guarantee admission as each cohort is limited and competitive. 

Do I need the GRE?

No. We don't require the GRE and won't review GRE scores submitted with an application. 

What’s the “YouConn” video essay, and how long should it be?

We can read about your skills and accomplishments within all other documents in an application packet, however, we want to meet the “real you”. Your video essay will show how your “you” and UConn can come together to make your career goals a reality.  In a 2-minute video, you will:  Introduce yourself, share a facet of yourself that makes you special or unique, and explain how this uniqueness can contribute to your future success as a genetic counselor.   Reminder- the 2 minute video you record cannot be edited. Please be prepared to complete this video in one take. 

What are the prerequisite courses?

One course each in biology or molecular biology, psychology, human genetics (Mendelian and molecular), biochemistry, statistics, and embryology or human developmental biology. All but embryology must be completed by the application deadline; admitted students complete ISG 5101 the summer before they start if needed.  If you are wondering if a previous course you’ve taken counts as a prerequisite, please send an email to uconngcpsm@uconn.edu with these course details: Course name, call number, and a copy of the syllabus for review. 

Do I need counseling experience?

Experience in an emotional support role is highly recommended. For example, at a crisis center, family-planning clinic, health center, support group, or in a peer-counseling role. We're looking for experiences that show you're able to support individuals with varying life circumstances. Additional experiences that are beneficial include interviewing or shadowing genetic counselors or volunteering in a genetics clinic. 

When is the application due, and how do I submit?

All materials are due to the UConn Graduate School online portal by January 1 at 11:59 PM.

First, register with the Genetic Counseling Admissions Match through National Matching Services ($100 fee) to get your Match ID.The UConn program number is 15811.Then apply through the UConn online portal and pay the $75 application fee (fee waivers available for eligible applicants). Please see the application page for more details.  

How does the Match work?

Admission offers are made through the Genetic Counseling Admissions Match, run by National Matching Services for each cycle. The UConn Match program number is 15811. Please refer to the NMS for further details.