Providing a strong foundation in core genetic counseling skills.

Director's Message

Northwestern University’s Graduate Program in Genetic Counseling at the Center for Genetic Medicine provides a strong foundation in core genetic counseling skills and identifies each student’s strengths in order to ignite the passion and lifelong commitment to learning that is critical to professional development. Graduates not only feel extremely capable in multiple clinical settings and specialties, but also recognize how valuable their training has been in preparing them for expanded genetic counseling careers.

The field of genetics has evolved rapidly over time, and graduate programs need to be aware of the changes that will continue to shape and influence the profession. Since the inception of the program in 1990, our program has continually evolved to meet these changing needs and keep an eye to the future of the profession.

About the Program

Admissions

Get key dates and deadlines; find tuition and financial aid information.

Curriculum

Find out about our supplemental activities, research components and clinical placements.

Meet Our Students

Learn about the many paths our students took to join our program.

Virtual Open House

If you were not able to attend our recent virtual Open House, you can watch the recording below. Reach out to geneticcounseling@northwestern.edu for questions.

Watch the Recording

Life After Graduation

One of the greatest strengths of the Northwestern program is the breadth of clinical experiences it offers. Through diverse rotations, I gained exposure to a wide range of patient populations, clinical specialties, and counseling situations while building lasting mentorships with amazing supervisors. Being part of a cohort of 20 allowed me to learn from my classmates' unique perspectives and counseling styles, lessons that still influence how I approach cases in clinic.

Zeljana Djukic, Class of 2026

Northwestern takes a unique and progressive approach to training future genetic counselors, stressing professional development and personalized medicine, which continues to inspire me in my current position. I am so grateful for my time at Northwestern and look forward to seeing the program grow and lead to many more genetic counselors who will take our field into the future of healthcare.

Lauren Siems, Class of 2016

The NU GPGC transformed my trajectory as a first‑generation college student. Studying abroad in Switzerland broadened my global perspective, and the tight‑knit GC community embraced and supported me from the start. I am deeply grateful to be part of the extensive NU alumni network, which played a pivotal role in helping me secure my dream industry position at a leading diagnostic company after graduation.

Erin M Shusterich, Class of 2025