Master of Genetic Counselling (MC-GENCOUN) // Entry and participation requirements

Entry requirements

1. In order to be considered for entry, applicants must provide evidence of having completed:

1. • an undergraduate degree preferably in a cognate discipline such as Science, Health Sciences, Social Work, Nursing, Psychology, Medicine or related discipline, with a weighted average mark of at least 65% or equivalent; 

AND

1. • evidence of at least one first year undergraduate biology subject and at least one second year undergraduate genetics subject (preferably human genetics), completed in the last 10 years and with subject marks of at least 65%, or equivalent. Applicants should attach relevant biology and genetics subject descriptions (in English) to their application.

AND

1. • relevant voluntary/professional work experience (minimum 6 months) in providing peer/counselling support to others at times of need or crisis;

AND

1. • up to three written, signed and dated references to attest to volunteer/work experience and ability including the duration and nature of the work (proforma available)

AND

• • a personal statement outlining a) why they wish to be considered for the program and b) how their background and experience is relevant to a career in genetic counselling (1000 words maximum)

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview with the Selection Panel which involves: 

• attending in person or by virtual interview to demonstrate interpersonal skills; and 
• writing a 500-word reflective piece on a relevant topic as determined by the Selection Committee; and 
• completion of a genetics quiz to demonstrate mastery of basic genetic/genomic concepts; and 
• completion of a resilience survey 

Meeting these requirements does not guarantee selection.

2. In ranking applications, the Selection Committee will consider

1. • • prior academic performance; and
     • the nature and extent of relevant professional and/or voluntary work experience and
     • the personal statement; and
     • the performance at the interview; and
     • marks from the genetics quiz; and
     • the relevance of the references.

 3. The Selection Committee may seek further information to clarify any aspect of an application in accordance with the Academic Board rules on the use of selection instruments.

 4. Applicants are required to satisfy the university’s English language requirements for postgraduate courses. For those applicants seeking to meet these requirements by one of the standard tests approved by the Academic Board, performance band 7+ is required.

Notes

Students may choose to exit the course with a Graduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling following successful completion of the first 100 credit points. The Graduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling is only available as an exit award. Completion of the Graduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling does not satisfy requirements to register as a practicing Genetic Counsellor.

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

Students must comply with Fitness to Practice Rules, which are accessible from Schedule 1 of the Student Fitness to Practice Policy (MPF1345). 

For the purposes of considering requests for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Objectives, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

Last updated: 21 February 2025