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Genetic Counseling (MS) Student Program Outcomes

We provide a comprehensive and highly supportive educational environment. For the last three cohorts that graduated from the Bay Path University MS in Genetic Counseling Program, the degree completion rate was 98%, and job placement in a genetic counseling or related position was 95%. While the board passage rate for first-time test takers within this group was 54%, the first-time passage rate for the newest graduating class was 73%, and the overall board passage rate for the last three graduating classes is 79.5%.


Student Learning Outcomes:

Graduates of the Master of Science in Genetic Counseling are expected to achieve the Practice-Based Competencies for Genetic Counselors, stated in four domains:

Domain 1 - Genetics Expertise & Analysis
1.1 Demonstrate & utilize a depth & breadth of understanding and knowledge of genetics and genomics core concepts and principles.
1.2 Integrate knowledge of psychosocial aspects of conditions with a genetic component to promote client well-being.
1.3 Construct relevant, targeted, & comprehensive personal and family histories and pedigrees.
1.4 Identify, assess, facilitate & integrate genetic testing options in genetic counseling practice.
1.5 Assess individuals’ & their relatives’ probability of conditions with a genetic component or carrier status based on their pedigree, test result(s), & other pertinent information.
1.6 Demonstrate the skills necessary to successfully manage a genetic counseling case.
1.7 Critically assess genetic/genomic, medical and social science literature and information.

Domain 2 - Interpersonal, Psychosocial & Counseling Skills
2.8 Establish a mutually agreed upon genetic counseling agenda with the client.
2.9 Employ active listening & interviewing skills to identify, assess, & empathically respond to stated & emerging concerns.
2.10 Use a range of genetic counseling skills & models to facilitate informed decision making & adaption to genetic risks or conditions.
2.11 Promote client-centered , informed, non-coercive & value based decision making.
2.12 Understand how to adapt genetic counseling skills for varied service delivery models.
2.13 Apply genetic counseling skills in a culturally responsive and respectful manner to all clients.

Domain 3 - Education
3.14 Effectively educate clients about a wide range of genetics & genomics information based on their needs, characteristics, & circumstances of the encounter.
3.15 Write concise & understandable clinical & scientific information for audiences of varying educational backgrounds.
3.16 Effectively give a presentation on genetics, genomics and genetic counseling issues.

Domain 4 - Professional Development & Practice
4.17 Act in accordance with the ethical, legal, & philosophical principles and values of the genetic counseling profession and the policies of one’s institution/organization.
4.18 Demonstrate understanding of the research process.
4.19 Advocate for individuals, families, communities and the genetics counseling profession.
4.20 Demonstrate a self-reflective, evidence-based and current approach to genetic counseling practice.
4.21 Understand the methods, roles, and responsibilities of the process of clinical supervision of trainees.
4.22 Establish and maintain professional interdisciplinary relationships in both team and one-on-one settings and recognize one’s role in the larger healthcare system.


Please visit the MS in Genetic Counseling program page to learn about the curriculum, program options, and more!