Genetic Counselor
Genetic Counselor Job Description
A genetic counselor’s job is to analyze, interpret, and explain data relating to genetic diseases and birth abnormalities. People require the expertise of a genetic counselor for various reasons. Partners with the desire to conceive may seek a consultation when one or both has a history of genetic abnormality in the family. Expectant parents who are alerted to the possibility of a birth defect or genetic anomaly based on testing during pregnancy are generally referred to a genetic counselor. Genetic counselors may also work with children and adults who are suspected of having or are diagnosed with genetic or developmental disorders.
In most cases, the doctor of an individual or family will arrange for the consultation with a genetic counselor. Any pertinent medical records including test results and family history will be shared with the counselor so that the data can be analyzed and then interpreted in order to provide patients a thorough understanding of their anticipated risks and/or options. Counseling sessions typically involve an in depth discussion about the physical and psychological genetic history of a family, the specific test data of the individual facing the possibility of a genetic condition, and statistics regarding various outcomes. A genetic counselor not only provides scientific facts to patients but also expert advice as well as support. Once a counseling session is complete, a detailed summary is composed by the counselor and copies are provided to the patient and the patient’s doctor.
Genetic Counselor Salary Statistics as of 2015
Average annual salary for a Genetic Counselor is $60513 based on statistics in the U.S. as of 2015. The highest salary recorded was $90314. The lowest salary reported was $49255. These figures will vary on a state to state basis as these are averages across all 50 states.
Median hourly wage for a Genetic Counselor is $30.305 based on statistics in the U.S. as of 2015. The highest hourly rate recorded was $31.21. The lowest hourly rate recorded was $29.4. These figures will vary on a state to state basis as these are averages across all 50 states.
Bonuses for a Genetic Counselor are based on the years of experience using statistics from the U.S. as of 2015. The average bonus recorded was $0 from people with 15+ years of experience. The average bonus recorded was $10250 from people with under 1 year of experience.
These are the highest paying states for a Genetic Counselor. These numbers are based of the median annual salary as of 2015.
California – $65,436 – $101,367
Massachusetts – $59,311 – $67,173
New Jersey – n/a
New York – $49,135 – $81,077
Oklahoma – n/a
Pennsylvania – $50,000 – $61,928
Wisconsin – n/a
These are the highest paying cities for a Genetic Counselor. These numbers are based of the median annual salary as of 2015.
Boston, Massachusetts –
New York, New York –
Los Angeles, California –
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania –
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma –
San Francisco, California –
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania –
This chart outlines the average annual salary of a Genetic Counselor from the past 5 years. In 2015 the average annual salary was $60513 while in 2007 it was just $56118.69
How To Become a Genetic Counselor
In order to become a genetic counselor, one must first obtain a bachelor’s degree. According to the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC), most people who choose to go into genetic counseling have obtained medical sciences, psychology, or healthcare related undergraduate degrees. However, other baccalaureate degrees are accepted when applying to a genetic counseling graduate degree program.
The next step to becoming a genetic counselor is to successfully complete a master’s degree program. Currently, there are 31 universities located in 22 states across the country and The District of Columbia that offer ABGC accredited genetic counseling programs. Examples of required curricula include courses related to research methodology, ethics, medical genetics, genetic counseling, psychological issues, molecular genetics, and cancer genetics. Clinical experience is a requirement of each program. Participation in a professional medical setting allows students to gain as much on the job knowledge and training as possible.
Once a master’s degree is earned, it is highly desirable for genetic counselors to pass the American Board of Genetic Counseling exam in order to become certified.
Job Outlook
Gender Statistics |
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9%
91%
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Based on our stats gathered across the U.S. 9% of Genetic Counselors were males while 91% were females. These numbers are based on averages across all states combined. Some individual states may have a much different ratio however.
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