UCLA launches new master ’s degree in genetic counseling in fall 2020

To meet the rising demand for specialists trained to guide patients facing complex genetic disorders, theDavid Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA is introducing a new master ’s of science degree ingenetic counseling.Housed within thedepartment of human genetics, the two-year program aims to broaden underserved populations ’ access to genomic medicine in Los Angeles, one of the most ethnically and racially diverse cities in the nation. A close alignment with the UCLA Institute for Precision Health and Institute for Society and Genetics will enhance cross-disciplinary training for students in the program. Genetic tests can reveal increased risks of health problems, identify genetic variants that contribute to disease, help physicians tailor therapies to patients ’ unique genomes and evaluate patients’ responses to treatment. In the past decade, genetic testing has gained popularity for the detection of cancer, autoimmune diseases, neurodegenerative disorders and other hereditary conditions.TheU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of genetic counselors to grow 27 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. U.S. News& World Report ranks genetic counseling asNo. 11 of the top health care support jobs. “Training the next generation of practitioners in this new era of precision health is a critical component of our educational mission,” said Dr. Kelsey Martin, dean of the Geffen School of Medicine. “As a leading acade...
Source: UCLA Newsroom: Health Sciences - Category: Universities & Medical Training Source Type: news