Genetic Counsellor

Genetic Counsellors are qualified health professionals who provide information and counselling services to people with (or at risk of developing) dangerous genetic conditions. They carry out risk assessments with high-risk individuals and help medical patients (and their families) make lifestyle and psychological adjustments to cope with their diagnosis.

As a Genetic Counsellor you could be counselling a young person who has been diagnosed with genetic heart disease, carrying out a risk assessment on a child whose father has motor neurone disease, explaining to family members how a genetic condition will impact their mother’s life expectancy, arranging genetic testing with a medical specialist, running information sessions with hospital nursing staff, or updating patient records after diagnostic testing.

Becoming a Genetic Counsellor takes many years of study and service. To succeed, you’ll need to be committed to your professional development and have the ability to combine technical knowledge with empathic listening and understanding.

Future demand High
Average yearly income $95,420
Skill level Unknown

How do I become a genetic counsellor?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced

Bachelor of Science (Genetics)

Blended, On Campus
3 years
$0 - $27,402
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.

Bachelor of Science (Genetics and Genomics)

Blended, On Campus
3 years
$0 - $123,300
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.

Bachelor of Science (Human Biology)

On Campus
3 years
Unavailable
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.

Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Genetics)

On Campus
12 months
$0 - $9,120
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.

Master of Genetic Counselling

On Campus
24 months
$0 - $54,579
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Genetic Counsellor
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Common questions

Further reading

How to start a career in counselling

7th September 2020

What can you do with a Diploma of Counselling?

11th September 2019

How to start a career in Mental Health

5th August 2021