Genetic
Counseling Curriculum
The
program's academic curriculum consists of the following
required and elective courses plus several supplemental
mini-courses.
Attendance
at two professional meetings (e.g., NSGC, American Society
of Human Genetics, March of Dimes) is also required in the
second year. Funds are available to defray costs.
Year
1- Fall Semester
Biology 101b
Molecular Biotechnology
A study of the molecular basis of DNA replication, RNA transcription,
RNA processing and editing, protein synthesis, and structure
function relationships with emphasis on DNA and protein
manipulation and molecular biology techniques. Usually offered
every year. Ms. Kosinski-Collins
Biology
128a
Human Genetics
Survey
of classical and non-classical patterns of inheritance;
cytogenetics; applications of molecular genetics techniques
in human genetics, analysis of variation, gene mapping,
identification of candidate genes, and genetic disease diagnoses;
single gene vs. complex gene inheritance; issues in human
population genetics; and, "hands-on" use of computer tools
in human genetics.
Biology
160b
Human Reproductive Biology
Deals with the hormonal and cellular regulation of gametogenesis,
fertilization, pregnancy and birth. Also discusses normal
and abnormal embryogenesis and fetal development in terms
of the genetic and molecular controls governing rapid cell
division, cell-cell interactions, tissue morphogenesis and
pattern formation.
Biology
202a
Introduction to Genetic Counseling
Provides the historical and theoretical foundations for
the practice of genetic counseling and the role of genetic
services within the health care delivery system. Also introduces
students to some of the practical aspects of genetic counseling
including case preparation, pedigree construction/interpretation
and medical documentation.
Biology
211d
Genetic Counseling Fieldwork Placement
Students work eight to 10 hours per week in a community-based
health service organization, school, clinic, or public health
agency.
Year
1 - Spring Semester
Biology
203a
Proseminar in Genetic Counseling
Introduction to the scientific literature in the fields
of human genetics and genetic counseling. Students gain
experience in reading papers and presenting them to the
class for discussion.
Biology
204b
Clinical Genetics I
Introduction to basic concepts of biochemical genetics,
cytogenetics and clinical molecular genetics. It makes use
of clinical cases ranging from single gene disorders to
multifactorially determined conditions and includes problems
in dysmorphology, inbom errors of metabolism and cancer
genetics. A problem-solving approach is emphasized.
Biology
205b
Counseling Theory and Technique
A comprehensive overview of counseling theory and practice.
It includes such topics as listening, observation and interview
skills and strategies; family dynamics and development;
coping and adaptation processes; referral and consultation
procedures; and ethical principles. Students are provided
an opportunity to integrate clinical experiences with the
coverage of topics.
Biology
211d
Genetic Counseling Fieldwork Placement
Students work eight to 10 hours per week in a clinical molecular
genetics, cytogenetics, and/or biochemical genetics laboratory.
Summer
Students
complete their first clinical internship and attend a biweekly
discussion group. (see Biology 212a)
Year
2 - Fall Semester
Students
should choose one to two electives during the second year.
At least one elective must be in the area of health policy.
Biology
206d
Genetic Counseling Journal Club
Informal biweekly meeting of students and faculty at which
recent papers are discussed. (non-credit).
Biology
207a
Genetic Counseling: Case Conferences and Family Counseling
This course is taught by a team of health care professionals.
Case studies provide the basis for discussion of a variety
of genetic disorders and the application of counseling modalities.
Students have an opportunity to share experiences gained
during clinical internships. Discussions emphasize the interplay
of medical, psychological, ethical, legal, social and cultural
factors in genetic counseling.
Biology
212a
Genetic Counseling Internship - Part I
Starting in the summer and continuing through the fall semester,
students work two-three days a week under the supervision
of a genetic counselor or clinical geneticist in a prenatal,
pediatric, general and/or cancer and specialty genetics
clinic.
Biology
213d
Genetic Counseling Research Project
Students are introduced to the basic techniques of social
science research and the principles in which these techniques
are grounded in a series of seminars running throughout
the academic year. Building on this base, and in consultation
with the program's research coordinator, each student designs
and carries out a research project under the supervision
of a research committee. Students are encouraged to submit
completed projects for publication in a professional journal
and/or presentation at a professional conference.
Biology
214d
Genetic Counseling Process Group
In this small group setting, students can share and learn
from their collective experiences in their field placements,
courses and individual lives and have the opportunity to
process and integrate the experience of becoming a genetic
counselor.
Biology
220a
Clinical Genetics II
Continuation of Biology 204b. This is a case-based, clinical-problem
solving oriented course. Also covers the genetic and developmental
disorders of most major organ systems.
Year
2 - Spring Semster
Students
should choose one to two electives during the second year.
At least one elective must be in the area of health policy.
Biology
206d
Genetic Counseling Journal Club
For full description refer to Biology
206d (fall semester).
Biology
212e
Genetic Counseling Internship - Part II
Students work two to three days a week under the supervision
of a genetic counselor or clinical geneticist in a prenatal,
pediatric, general and/or cancer and specialty genetics
clinic and meet once a week to discuss cases and develop
counseling protocols for some of the more common genetic
disorders.
Biology
213d
Genetic Counseling Research Project
For full description, refer to Biology
213d (fall semester).
Biology
214d
Genetic Counseling Process Group
For full description, refer to Biology
214d (fall semester).
Biology
236a
Genetics, Law and Social Policy
Explores advances in human genetics, the clinical and economic
benefits promised by new tests and new therapeutics derived
therefrom, and the myriad legal and ethical problems generated
by our new ability to see deeply into and manipulate our
biological future. Analysis of the role of government in
regulating technological development and of the legal doctrines
of privacy, informed consent and professional liability
leads to discussion of the following issues: Who should
have access to genetic information? Should parents always
have the right to consent to tests on behalf of their children?
May one family member compel another to share genetic facts?
What is the proper use of DNA testing in the criminal justice
system? What is the appropriate use of genetic information
by insurers and employers?
