Through rotations in more than a dozen specialty clinics at Children's Hospital, students become acquainted with the characteristics and treatment of individuals and families with genetic disorders, such as spina bifida, Down syndrome, the muscular dystrophies, sickle cell anemia, and neurofibromatosis. Training includes exposure to all areas of prenatal diagnosis, cytogenetics and pediatric and adult genetics. In addition to the clinical training at Children's, at least one summer internship at another genetics center is required to broaden the students' experiences. As the students' knowledge and skills develop, they progress from observing qualified professionals to independent counseling under supervision. Stipend amounts and associated responsibilities are specified during the application process.
Genetic counseling is a relatively new health profession.
Major technological advances have significantly increased the need for genetic counselors in recent years. Graduates of the program are fully qualified to work as genetic counselors in a variety of settings. They may have clinical responsibilities, or specialize in educational, laboratory, administrative, or research activities. Program graduates have found numerous job opportunities awaiting them as professional genetic counselors.