Duration
2 years full time / 3 years part time
Mode (Location)
On campus (Parkville)
Intake
February
Key dates
Key dates
Fees
Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) available
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Learn more
Entry schemes
Access Melbourne is available
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Career outcomes
Overview
- Gain the knowledge and skills to become a professional genetic counsellor.
- Graduate with a world-renowned qualification that opens doors to exciting career opportunities, both in Australia and internationally.
- Be eligible for professional certification by the Human Genetic Society of Australasia (HGSA) upon graduation.
This course will provide you with the specialised knowledge and insights you need to become a compassionate and skilled genetic counsellor. You'll learn how to help individuals and families understand and navigate challenges related to genetic conditions. This highly regarded program will boost your chances of finding fulfilling work both at home and abroad.
Master of Genetic Counselling careers
With a Master of Genetic Counselling, you'll have a range of unique and impactful career options, including:
- Associate Genetic Counsellor
- Researcher
- Program Officer
You'll have exclusive access to world-class clinical research and laboratory science facilities through the Melbourne Medical School's strong connections with institutions like the Murdoch Children's Research Institute and Victorian Clinical Genetic Services (VCGS).
As a graduate of the Master of Genetic Counselling, you'll be incredibly well-prepared to pursue opportunities in this specialised field at institutions and organisations worldwide. Our graduates have successfully found rewarding positions in clinical genetics services across Europe, Canada, and Asia, proving the global recognition of this program.
Profile
Anna Jarmolowicz
Where are you working now? What’s your job title? I am working as an Associate Genetic Counsellor at both the Victorian Clinical Genetics Services and Melbourne IVF.
How did you get the job? The Master of Genetic Counselling is a unique degree that works very closely with genetic services across Victoria. There are many opportunities for observations, volunteering and casual employment in the genetics community while you are studying. I was working in a casual genetic research assistant role while completing the degree, which fortunately led to a genetic counselling role once I graduated.
How did you decide on a career in genetics? I really enjoyed genetics subjects at high school and university, but quickly realized bench lab work wasn’t for me! I was looking for a career that would enable me to work with people and came across an article about genetic counselling. After volunteering at my local genetics service, felt that the field would allow me to pursue my love of science while providing support to individuals and families.
Are you applying the skills you learnt during study at UoM? The Master of Genetic Counselling provides a great mix of theoretical and practical training, including clinical placements, to prepare you for the job. I apply counselling, research and time-management skills learnt in the course daily.
What’s an average day in your job look like? An average day is spent working clients; discussing family history information, explaining genetic conditions, arranging genetic testing and providing support. A lot of conversations are had over the phone, but we also see patients in clinics. I also am involved in various research projects and the Master of Genetic Counselling coursework.
What do you love most about your job? Working with clients - the resilience and courage so that people show in difficult situations is incredible. I enjoy the opportunity to help in some small way. It’s also an exciting time in the field of genetics with new technologies allowing for faster and more accurate diagnosis of genetic conditions, so I’m constantly learning.
What do you know now that you wish you knew whilst studying? Two years of studying actually goes very quickly, make the most of every opportunity!
Any tips for students applying for graduate programs or positions post studying? Try to get involved by first volunteering or working in the field to get a sense of whether it is right for you.