Genetic Counseling

Admission Requirements:

• Recommended undergraduate preparation: Coursework in the biological and behavioral sciences — particularly in genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, psychology and human development are preferred. Courses in statistics and in human anatomy are advisable, but not required. Fluency in Spanish or a Southeast Asian language is a considerable advantage in admissions decisions and patient-care opportunities.

• Extracurricular or employment experiences: Work or other experiences that show evidence of the student\'s maturity, interpersonal skills and commitment to genetic counseling figure prominently in the admissions decision are advisable. Many successful applicants have had volunteer experiences that involve counseling, such as being a resident advisor or peer counselor in college, working on a crisis telephone hotline or helping disabled individuals. Others have come to the program after working as a teacher, researcher, nurse, Peace Corps volunteer or social worker. These sorts of experiences help develop valuable skills and perspectives that enhance one's ability as a genetic counselor.
• GPA: The University of California requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 for graduate admission. In special circumstances, the GPA in the major for the last two years or the GPA for a graduate degree may be considered in lieu of the overall undergraduate GPA.
• GRE: General test scores must be submitted. Subject test scores in any area will be considered if they are available. Since there is no GRE code for the Department of Pediatrics, applicants should use the general UCI GRE code: 4859. Official GRE scores will be forwarded to the Division by Research and Graduate Studies. To avoid delay in application review, candidates should record their scores in the appropriate place on the application or send a photocopy directly to the division as soon as they receive them. There is no specific minimum score, but the average GRE scores for admitted applicants are typically in the 75th percentile or above.

• Transcripts should be submitted from all post-secondary colleges or universities attended. This includes transcripts from institutions at which the candidate took only one or a few courses (e.g., post-baccalaureate coursework or extension courses). One official copy of each transcript should be sent directly to the division.
• A minimum of three letters of recommendation is required. References should come from professors, employers, supervisors or others who know the candidate well and who can provide evidence of the applicant's academic ability, interpersonal skills, maturity and promise as a genetic counselor. The letters may be submitted online or sent directly to the division.