| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2026-02-01 | - |
| 2027-02-01 | - |
Program Overview
Master of Genetic Counselling
The Master of Genetic Counselling is a two-year program designed for those aspiring to become genetic counsellors. It offers a practical approach, shaped by experienced genetic counsellors and researchers. The program is delivered in a way that actively supports learning from the student's hometown by blending weekly 'live and online' classes supported by a week-long on-campus block each session at the UTS City campus. Teaching is enriched by expert guest lecturers, ensuring relevance and real-world application of coursework.
Overview
This course is designed for those aspiring to become genetic counsellors. It offers a practical approach, shaped by experienced genetic counsellors and researchers. The program is delivered in a way that actively supports learning from the student's hometown by blending weekly 'live and online' classes supported by a week-long on-campus block each session at the UTS City campus. Students will gain practical experience through clinical placements available across Australasia, with potential for international experience, and develop research skills for evidence-based practice. The teaching methodology combines asynchronous online modules with synchronous weekly classes and reflective practice supervision, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.
Notes
For the February 2026 Intake (Autumn B session), applications open on 29 July 2025 and close on 21 November 2025. There is no mid-year intake (Spring B session). It is recommended to apply early, as applications and eligibility for interview will be assessed on a rolling basis. Entry is competitive and assessment is based on Grade Point Average (GPA), relevant voluntary or paid work experience in a caring role, references, and personal statement. Selected competitive applicants will be invited to interview through September, October, and November. Meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee an interview or offer of a place. Indigenous applicants will be contacted by the Professor of Practice in Indigenous Health. Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) are not available for this course; however, eligible domestic students may apply for FEE-HELP. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is not accepted for this course.
Availabilities
- Attendance mode: On campus - Block
- Attendance type: Full Time
- Location: City campus
- Session: Autumn B Session
- Student type: Domestic, International
Professional Recognition
A two-year Master of Genetic Counselling from a program accredited by the Human Genetics Society of Australasia (HGSA) is required to apply for active status (MHGSA) on the genetic counselling register through the HGSA. Active registered candidates can then complete a portfolio of work to complete certification as a genetic counsellor and become a Fellow of the Human Genetics Society of Australasia (FHGSA). The UTS Master of Genetic Counselling is accredited by the HGSA.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, graduates will be able to:
- Apply evidence-based genetic and genomic health care to practice.
- Enhance genetic counselling practice through professional self-awareness, self-reflection, and ethical behaviour.
- Integrate cultural awareness and societal diversity into genetic counselling practice and provide relevant genetic and genomic education to diverse audiences.
- Design, apply, and review effective and ethically robust research to enhance genetic counselling practice.
- Foster effective and culturally safe relationships with clients from diverse communities and within multidisciplinary health and social care networks.
- Critically reflect on ethical Indigenous research, including relationship building, communication, client-centred, and reflective practice to work with and for Indigenous Australians across the genetic counselling profession.
Structure
This course comprises a total of 96 credit points. Students must complete a total of eight 6-credit-point coursework subjects, four 6-credit-point research subjects, and four 6-credit-point clinical placement subjects.
Core Subjects
- 96104: Communication and Counselling (6 CPs)
- 96103: Medical Genetics and Genomics in Practice (6 CPs)
- 96102: Research Methods in Genetic Counselling (6 CPs)
- 96105: Clinical and Community Placement 1 (6 CPs)
- 96110: Genetic Counselling (6 CPs)
- 96108: Research Project 1 (6 CPs)
- 96109: Research Issues in Genetic Counselling (6 CPs)
- 96099: Genetic Counselling Clinical Placement 2 (6 CPs)
- 96107: Advanced Communication and Counselling (6 CPs)
- 96106: Application of Genetics and Genomics (6 CPs)
- 96114: Research Project 2 (6 CPs)
- 96100: Genetic Counselling Clinical Placement 3 (6 CPs)
- 96113: Advanced Genetic Counselling (6 CPs)
- 96111: Genetics and Genomics in Society (6 CPs)
- 96112: Advanced Professional Practice (6 CPs)
- 96101: Genetic Counselling Clinical Placement 4 (6 CPs)
Inherent Requirements
Inherent requirements are academic and non-academic requirements that are essential for successfully completing a course at UTS. The inherent requirements for this course can be found via the inherent requirements directory.
Award
The award for this program is the Master of Genetic Counselling (MGenCouns).
Faculty
The faculty for this program is the Graduate School of Health.
Study Level
The study level for this program is postgraduate.
Location
The location for this program is the City campus.
Duration
The duration of this program is 2 years.
CRICOS Code
The CRICOS code for this program is not specified.
Language of Instruction
The language of instruction for this program is English.