Why Northwestern?
Why join the Graduate Program in Genetic Counseling at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine? There are many reasons, but here are our top 10:
Top Hospital Affiliations
Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago are regularly ranked among the best in the country and state by U.S. News & World Report.
Numerous Rotations
We have more than 50 training sites and 100 certified genetic counselors in our area, providing rich and diverse training opportunities. Our students participate in eight rotations, including opportunities in many clinical areas of practice, industry, advocacy and policy, as well as connections for possible rotations abroad.
Tailored Curriculum
All courses are designed for our students and are coordinated by one or more of our program leadership team in conjunction with genetic counselor faculty experts. The courses incorporate both the medical and psychosocial aspects of genetic counseling and take problem-based learning approaches. We are proud to offer one of the only dual-degree programs available in Genetic Counseling and Medical Humanities and Bioethics.
Esteemed Faculty
Our program directors and faculty have extensive experience at the state and national levels and include individuals with expertise in genetic counseling, health communication, bioethics and medical humanities and public health.
Focus on Research
Research is a primary focus of our program: We were one of the first to require completion of a research project for graduation.
Dedication to Diversity
We currently admit 20 students per year with diverse backgrounds and experiences. For more on the medical school’s efforts in this area, see the Feinberg School of Medicine’s Diversity & Inclusion site.
Prime Location
Situated in downtown Chicago just steps from Michigan Avenue and Lake Michigan, our program location affords students many cultural and culinary opportunities.
Emphasis on Transferable Skills
Beyond clinical training, our program also emphasizes transferring those skills to expanded roles within the genetic counseling profession.
Networking Opportunities
We offer engagement activities with industry representatives, scientists, key opinion leaders and genetics professionals.
Amazing Alumni
Some of our more than 200 graduates have gone on to serve as NSGC president and on the board of directors, have been appointed to national committees and are now industry leaders, research coordinators, recipients of professional awards and accomplished scientific authors.
Program Statistics
We have 100 percent job placement, 1 percent attrition, and an over 80 percent board pass rate on the first attempt within the last three graduating classes.