Top 11 Genetic Counselor Certifications

Certifications are an important part of the genetic counselor job market as they demonstrate that a genetic counselor has the required knowledge and skills to provide competent patient care. Certifications also help ensure that genetic counselors meet the standards of practice set forth by professional organizations and governing bodies, such as the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC). Furthermore, certifications allow genetic counselors to demonstrate their qualifications to employers when applying for jobs, which can be beneficial in securing employment. Additionally, certifications may help genetic counselors gain recognition and respect among colleagues, which can lead to increased opportunities for professional advancement.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Genetic Counselors and explain how these certifications can advance a genetic counselor's career.

What are Genetic Counselor Certifications?

Genetic counselor certification is the process of becoming a certified genetic counselor. This involves completing a master’s degree in genetics counseling and passing a national examination administered by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC). Certification is voluntary but encouraged, as it demonstrates knowledge in the field and a commitment to professional standards.

A certified genetic counselor can help individuals and families understand their risk for inherited conditions, interpret complex medical information, provide support and resources, and provide guidance on how to make informed decisions about genetic testing. Certified genetic counselors may also work with healthcare providers to diagnose and manage genetic conditions. With their specialized knowledge, they can help identify options for prevention, diagnosis, treatment, management, and follow-up care for individuals at risk for or affected by genetic conditions. Furthermore, certified genetic counselors are often involved in research studies that aim to improve the understanding of genetics-related medical conditions.

Overall, certification as a genetic counselor can be beneficial to both patients and professionals alike. It serves as evidence of competency in working with clients who have inherited disorders or are considering testing for them. It also provides assurance that someone has met the highest standards of practice within the field of genetics counseling.

Pro Tip: When considering genetic counselor certification, be sure to research the requirements and qualifications for each certification program. Additionally, review the cost associated with each program to ensure that it fits within your budget. Finally, make sure you understand the timeline of when you will be able to become certified and how long it will take to complete the process.

Related: What does a Genetic Counselor do?

Top 11 Genetic Counselor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Genetic Counselors today.

1. American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC)

The American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) is a non-profit organization that certifies genetic counselors in the United States. The ABGC was founded in 1979 to promote high standards of practice and professional development for genetic counselors. It provides a voluntary certification process for individuals who have met specific educational, experience, and examination requirements.

To become certified by the ABGC, an individual must hold a master’s degree in genetic counseling from an accredited program, complete at least two years of supervised clinical experience, and pass the ABGC board certification exam. The exam consists of two parts: a written component and an oral component. The written component includes multiple choice questions on topics such as medical genetics, counseling techniques, ethical issues, and laboratory methods. The oral component consists of a one-on-one interview with an ABGC examiner.

The entire process typically takes 6-12 months to complete. The cost varies depending on the individual’s situation but generally ranges from $1,000-$2,500 USD for all fees associated with the application and exam process.

2. American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG)

The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) is a professional membership organization that represents the interests of medical geneticists, genetic counselors, laboratory geneticists, and other healthcare providers in the field of human genetics. The ACMG works to promote the practice of medical genetics and genomics, provide education and resources to its members, and advocate for advancements in the field.

Membership in the ACMG is open to all individuals who have an interest in medical genetics and genomics. To become a member, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. The application process typically takes 3-4 weeks to complete.

The cost of membership varies based on type: student ($50/year), associate ($100/year), full ($150/year), or life ($1,000 one-time fee). There are also additional fees for specialty certifications such as Clinical Cytogenetics or Clinical Molecular Genetics.

3. National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC)

The National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) is a professional organization dedicated to the promotion of the genetic counseling profession and the support of genetic counselors. The NSGC was founded in 1979 and has grown to become the leading professional organization for genetic counselors in North America.

To become a member of the NSGC, individuals must have a master’s degree or higher in genetic counseling from an accredited program, be certified by either the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) or Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors (CAGC), and have an active license to practice as a genetic counselor.

The process to become an NSGC member typically takes two weeks after all required documents are received. To apply for membership, applicants must complete an online application form and pay the annual membership fee. The current annual fee for individual members is $110 USD.

4. Academy of Certified Genetic Counselors (ACGC)

The Academy of Certified Genetic Counselors (ACGC) is an international professional organization that provides certification and continuing education for genetic counselors. The ACGC was founded in 1985 to promote the highest standards of practice in the field of genetic counseling.

In order to become certified by the ACGC, applicants must have a master's degree in genetic counseling from an accredited program, as well as two years of supervised clinical experience. Applicants must also pass a written examination and complete a portfolio review. The entire process typically takes about six months to complete.

In order to maintain certification, members must complete at least 30 hours of continuing education every three years, as well as participate in professional development activities such as research or teaching.

The cost of certification varies depending on the type of application submitted and whether or not an applicant needs to take the examination. Generally speaking, it costs between $400 and $1,000 USD to apply for certification with the ACGC.

5. Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors (CAGC)

The Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors (CAGC) is a national, non-profit organization that represents and supports genetic counsellors in Canada. The CAGC’s mission is to promote the practice of genetic counselling in Canada, to advance the professional development of its members, and to foster research and education in the field.

To become a member of the CAGC, you must be a certified or registered genetic counsellor in good standing with either the Canadian College of Medical Geneticists (CCMG) or the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC). You must also have completed an accredited training program and/or have three years of experience as a practicing genetic counsellor.

The application process for CAGC membership typically takes two weeks. To apply, you must complete an online application form on the CAGC website and submit it along with proof of certification/registration from either CCMG or ABGC, your CV, and payment for your membership fee. The cost for one year's membership is $200 CAD.

6. International Society of Genetic Counselors (ISGC)

The International Society of Genetic Counselors (ISGC) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the field of genetic counseling and promoting the highest standards of practice. The ISGC was founded in 1979 and has grown to include over 3,000 members from more than 40 countries around the world. The ISGC provides resources for genetic counselors, including continuing education opportunities, research grants, and networking opportunities with other professionals in the field.

In order to become a member of the ISGC, an individual must be certified as a genetic counselor by either the American Board of Genetic Counseling or an equivalent international certification body. It typically takes two years to complete the certification process. To become certified, an individual must complete a master’s degree in genetic counseling or a related field and pass a board-certified examination.

The cost of joining the ISGC varies depending on membership type. Professional membership costs $195/year for individuals who are currently certified as genetic counselors; associate membership is available for those who are not yet certified at a discounted rate of $95/year. Student memberships are also available at no cost for those enrolled in an accredited program leading to certification as a genetic counselor.

7. European Society of Human Genetics (ESHG)

The European Society of Human Genetics (ESHG) is a professional society dedicated to the advancement of human genetics and genomics research. It was founded in 1975 and has more than 6,000 members from over 70 countries. The ESHG provides a forum for the exchange of knowledge and ideas, and promotes the development of new technologies and research in the field.

To become a member of the ESHG, you must have an academic degree in human genetics or related fields, or have at least three years of experience in the field. You can apply for membership online through their website. The application process takes approximately two weeks to complete.

The cost of joining the ESHG depends on your country of residence and type of membership you choose. Annual fees range from €50 for students to €250 for full members. There are also reduced rates available for those who are unemployed or retired. Additional fees may be required depending on which services you opt to use, such as access to their online library or discounts on conferences and workshops.

8. International Federation of Human Genetics Societies (IFHGS)

The International Federation of Human Genetics Societies (IFHGS) is a non-profit organization that was established in 1992. It is an international network of societies, organizations, and individuals dedicated to promoting the advancement of human genetics research and education. The IFHGS works to improve the quality of life for people around the world by advancing knowledge about genetic conditions and their treatments.

Membership to the IFHGS is open to any individual or organization interested in human genetics research and education. Membership is free and can be obtained by completing an application form on the IFHGS website.

The IFHGS offers a variety of services to its members, including access to its online library, educational materials, conferences, workshops, webinars, seminars, and other resources related to human genetics research and education. The IFHGS also provides support for research projects related to human genetics through grants and awards.

In addition to providing services for its members, the IFHGS also works with governments around the world to promote public policies that are beneficial to those affected by genetic conditions. The organization also works with industry partners on initiatives that promote responsible use of genetic technologies.

There is no cost associated with becoming a member of the International Federation of Human Genetics Societies (IFHGS). The application process typically takes between 1-2 weeks after submission.

9. American Board of Clinical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics (ABCCMG)

The American Board of Clinical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics (ABCCMG) is a non-profit organization that provides certification in the specialty areas of Clinical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics. The ABCCMG is dedicated to promoting excellence in the practice of clinical cytogenetics and molecular genetics, as well as providing training and certification for qualified professionals.

In order to become certified by the ABCCMG, applicants must meet specific educational requirements, have at least two years of experience in the field, pass an examination, and submit a portfolio for review. The process typically takes about three years to complete.

To get started on the path to certification, applicants must first complete an accredited medical or doctoral degree program in genetics or related field. Applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in laboratory techniques related to cytogenetic and molecular genetic analysis. After completing these requirements, applicants may then apply for certification through the ABCCMG website.

Once accepted into the program, applicants must complete an approved fellowship program lasting at least two years. During this time, they will be required to take part in supervised laboratory work and attend lectures related to clinical cytogenetics and molecular genetics. At the end of their fellowship program they will be required to take a written exam administered by the ABCCMG board of directors.

Finally, after passing their written exam, applicants must submit a portfolio containing evidence of their experience and achievements for review by the ABCCMG board of directors. This portfolio may include documents such as publications or presentations given at professional meetings, letters from supervisors attesting to their skills and knowledge in clinical cytogenetics and molecular genetics, as well as any other evidence deemed relevant by the board members.

The cost for taking part in this certification process varies depending on individual circumstances but generally ranges from $2,000 - $5,000 USD which includes fees associated with application processing fees as well as fees associated with taking part in approved fellowship programs if applicable.

10. American Board of Medical Specialties in Medical Genetics and Genomics (ABMSMGG)

The American Board of Medical Specialties in Medical Genetics and Genomics (ABMSMGG) is a voluntary certification program that recognizes physicians who have demonstrated expertise in the field of medical genetics and genomics. The program was established to ensure that physicians practicing in this field have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to provide safe, effective, and ethical care for patients with genetic conditions.

To obtain ABMSMGG certification, physicians must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having an MD or DO degree from an accredited medical school; completing a residency program in either clinical genetics or clinical genomics; and passing the ABMSMGG examination. The exam consists of two parts: a written component and an oral component. Both components must be completed within three years of each other.

The cost for taking the ABMSMGG examination varies depending on the country in which it is taken. In the United States, the fee is approximately $2,000. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with travel expenses related to attending the exam.

Overall, obtaining ABMSMGG certification typically takes at least two years to complete all of the necessary steps. This includes completing any required residency programs and studying for and passing both components of the exam.

11. American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification in Clinical Molecular Genetics (ASCP-BCCMG).

The American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification in Clinical Molecular Genetics (ASCP-BCCMG) is a certification program designed to recognize the expertise and skills of clinical laboratory professionals who specialize in molecular genetics. The ASCP-BCCMG certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a high level of knowledge and competence in the field.

It typically takes three to six months to complete the ASCP-BCCMG certification process. To become certified, applicants must first meet eligibility requirements which include having a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution and at least two years of laboratory experience in molecular genetics. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive written examination covering topics such as molecular biology, genetic analysis, and laboratory management.

The cost for the ASCP-BCCMG certification varies depending on the applicant’s country of residence. In the United States, it costs $450 to take the exam plus an additional fee for processing and mailing materials. International applicants may be subject to additional fees.

Once certified, individuals must renew their credentials every five years by completing continuing education credits and paying a renewal fee.

Do You Really Need a Genetic Counselor Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's goals and career aspirations. For some, having a genetic counselor certificate may not be necessary, while for others it may be essential.

For those who want to become a certified genetic counselor, having a certificate is essential. In order to become certified, individuals must complete an accredited program that provides specialized training in genetics and counseling. After completing the program and passing the certification exam, they will receive a certificate indicating their professional qualifications. This certificate is required in order to practice as a genetic counselor in the United States.

Those who want to work in other roles related to genetics or counseling may also benefit from obtaining a genetic counselor certificate. By demonstrating their knowledge of the field through certification, they can show potential employers that they are qualified for these positions. Furthermore, having a certificate can provide individuals with additional credibility and recognition within their chosen field of study or profession.

Ultimately, whether or not an individual needs a genetic counselor certificate depends on their own goals and career plans. For those who plan on becoming certified genetic counselors, this certification is essential; however, for those pursuing other roles related to genetics or counseling, it may be beneficial but not necessarily required.

Related: Genetic Counselor Resume Examples

FAQs About Genetic Counselor Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a certified genetic counselor?

Answer: In order to become a certified genetic counselor, you must complete a master’s degree in genetic counseling from an accredited institution and pass the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) certification exam.

2. How long does it take to become a certified genetic counselor?

Answer: It typically takes about two years to complete all the requirements for certification.

3. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining certification?

Answer: Yes, ABGC requires that certified genetic counselors complete at least 25 hours of continuing education every two years in order to maintain their certification.

4. Is there an expiration date on my certification?

Answer: No, your ABGC certification is valid indefinitely as long as you meet the continuing education requirements.

5. Can I use my certification in other countries?

Answer: Yes, your ABGC certification is recognized internationally and can be used in many countries around the world.