Genetic counselor

Duties

• Intepret results Analyze lab results and explain genetic findings to patients and doctors. You’ll break down complex data into clear, actionable insights.
• Explain testing Discuss genetic testing options, outlining risks, benefits, and limitations. You’ll help families understand their choices and make informed decisions.
• Assess risk Examine genetic data to identify individuals or families at risk for inherited conditions. You’ll analyze patterns and assess probabilities to guide healthcare planning.
• Provide counseling Offer guidance, education, and emotional support to patients and their families. You’ll help them process genetic risks and navigate their next steps.
• Report findings Write detailed reports to translate complex genetic insights for patients and healthcare providers. You’ll document findings in a way that supports clear communication and decision-making.

Education

Minimum qualification: Bachelor’s degree

Genetic counselor - Biology

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Salary

• Entry level: 82000
• Mid level: 105000
• Senior level: 150000

Job outlook

Job openings: 300

Demand: Rapid growth

• Genomic research and personalized medicine are driving demand for genetic counselors. (The global genetic testing market is projected to grow 12.3% annually, reaching $55.23B by 2032.)
• More people are seeking genetic counseling as awareness of inherited health risks grows. (As of 2019, there were approximately 4,700 certified genetic counselors in the United States, nearly double the number since 2009. ​)
• Wider insurance coverage for genetic testing and counseling has made these services more accessible, boosting demand. (Employment of genetic counselors is projected to grow 16% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. )

Quote

Our field lacks diversity, as over 90% of genetic counselors are white females... [we are] committed to increasing our diversity as it will impact the quality-of-care provision to all of our patients.

Mercy Laurino, MS, CGC, PhD, Genetic Counselor, and Director of Cancer Genetics and Prevention at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

Read Mercy's story

Mercy Laurino helps adult patients understand their cancer risks by analyzing family medical histories and genetic test results. As the Director of Cancer Genetics and Prevention, she leads teams that identify high-risk patients and connect them to life-saving early detection strategies. After losing her aunt to breast cancer at a young age, she devoted her career to prevention. Now she's also fighting to diversify genetic counseling, because diversity directly improves patient care.

Learn more

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Sources

, Apple Podcasts. (2025). Black in science. , Boston University College of Arts & Sciences. (2025). Biology, B.A.. , Boston University Graduate Medical Sciences. (2025). Genetic counseling program curriculum. , Glassdoor. (2025). Genetic counselor salaries. , Global Market Insights. (2025). Genetic testing market. , Grey Genetics. (2025). About. , MassBay Community College. (2025). Life sciences A.S.. , National Center for O*NET Development. (2025). Genetic counselors. , NS4ed. (2025). Biotechnology. , NS4ed. (2025). Health assisting. , U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025). Genetic counselors. , U.S. Government Accountability Office. (2020). GAO-20-593: Highlights. , University of Massachusetts Boston. (2025). Biology, B.S..