Genetic Counselor
What They Do:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Genetic counselors assess individual or family risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as genetic disorders and birth defects. They provide information and support to other healthcare providers, or to individuals and families concerned with the risk of inherited conditions.”
Qualifications:
Most genetic counselors obtain a master’s degree in genetics or genetic counseling.
What They Make:
The 2019 median pay was $81,880 .
Where They Work:
Genetic counselors may work in hospitals, physicians’ offices, medical and diagnostic laboratories, college campuses, and/or be self-employed.
Career Outlook:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Employment of genetic counselors is projected to grow 21 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.”
Sources:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/genetic-counselors.htm
Updated February 2021
