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How to Become a Genetic Counselor

Help patients and families understand inherited-condition risk, interpret genetic test results, and make informed medical decisions. It typically requires a master's degree, with a median salary of $100,040 per year and much faster than average projected job growth.

Median pay

$100,040/yr

Job growth

7%

Openings / yr

300

Majors that lead here

BiologyPublic HealthPsychology

Key skills

  • Genetics
  • Risk Assessment
  • Counseling
  • Active Learning
  • Communication

Helpful certifications

  • CGC (American Board of Genetic Counseling)

Is this career a fit?

Remote-friendly

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Work-life balance

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Stress level

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Satisfaction

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Related careers

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Genetic Counselor make?

The median pay for a Genetic Counselor is $100,040 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.

What degree do you need to become a Genetic Counselor?

The usual entry point is a master's degree. Common majors are Genetics, Biology, Psychology, and Public Health.

Is Genetic Counselor a growing field?

The BLS projects much faster than average demand for this role, about 7% over the decade, with roughly 300 U.S. openings a year.

What skills does a Genetic Counselor use most?

Common skills for this role are Genetics, Risk Assessment, Counseling, Active Learning, and Communication.

Planning to become a Genetic Counselor?

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Salary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.