Coursework

Master of Genetic Counselling

  • CRICOS code: 061969D
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Overview

Applications for Start Year Intake 2024 are now open and will close on 17 September 2023.

As part of the application process all applicants must write a personal statement of up to 1,000 words. The statement should explain how the applicant meets the selection criteria, identify individual skills and qualities relevant to a career in genetic counselling and attest that it is the students own work.

All applications should include an academic transcript and three written references from relevant referees such as:

a) teacher/lecturer/academic

b) employer/supervisor of paid work

c) supervisor of peer counselling/volunteer work/placement

Referees should detail the length of time they have known the candidate and in what capacity and attest to their perception of the candidate’s ability, character and suitability for a career as a genetic counsellor.

Please ensure each of your three referees individually complete the online Master of Genetic Counselling Referee Report.

Pre-requisites

Human genetics knowledge

This is an important pre-requisite and applicants will need to demonstrate that they have studied first year biology as well as relevant second year genetics subjects. Academic transcripts will be reviewed and applicants invited for interview will complete a short assessment to indicate their level of understanding of basic genetic/genomic concepts.

Relevant volunteering/peer counselling experience

Applicants should nominate referees who can provide evidence of their ability to interact effectively and appropriately with people who are in distress.

Some relevant experiential opportunities in Victoria are:-

Alternatively volunteer experience with support organisations such as Down syndrome Victoria, Cystic Fibrosis Victoria or other groups that provide support to people living with a disability/genetic condition is considered favourable.

Please see further details below about volunteer or professional experience:

  • it needs to be a minimum of 6 months regular experience (paid or volunteer) that will demonstrate an ability to provide support for individuals/families at times of crisis/need/illness;
  • as it is a competitive application process for Master of Genetic Counselling, the quality and duration of the experience is an important part of the selection criteria;
  • opportunities are really varied but could include peer support helplines/patient support at hospitals/disability support work/providing support for refugees/people who are homeless. Many local councils advertise volunteer opportunities on their website;
  • references from coordinators or supervisors will enhance an application;
  • administrative support (helping with newsletters/funding etc) or observing genetic counselling sessions is not considered as valuable as directly supporting people in times of need/illness/crisis;
  • volunteer programs that provide education/training to volunteers are highly valued, for example Very Special Kids in Victoria or Lifeline/Aidsline nationally.
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