Genetics Quiz #51: Certificate in Clinical Genetics
Over the last few months, I’ve received several questions about career options in genetics. Here’s one that I’m still not clear on.
What is the difference between getting a certification in clinical genetics and becoming a certified genetic counselor?
Answer from the Brandeis University Genetic Counseling Program and the School for Health Studies at Simmons College:
This certificate will demonstrate to employers and colleagues that you have obtained the genetic knowledge and experience to appropriately address, in the context of practice, patients’ concerns about genetics. Such support will include the ability to identify individuals who may be at increased risk for carrying or developing a genetic disorder, assessing the initial risk, providing general information about genetic disorders and test results, discussing issues surrounding genetics and inheritance, making appropriate referrals for genetic testing and counseling, and identifying useful resources for patients.
You can obtain a Certificate in Clinical Genetics by taking a five-course online program hosted by the Rabb School of Summer and Continuing Studies at Brandeis University.
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The previous answer from Brandeis University is inaccurate. Genetic professionals in healthcare include genetic physicians, who are MDs certified by the American Board of Medical Genetics (ABMG), genetic laboratory specialists, who are PhDs or MDs certified by the ABMG, and genetic counselors, who have a MS in Genetics and are certified by the American Board of Genetic Counselors (ABGC). The “certificate” offered by Brandeis University is not the same as ABMG or ABGC certifiction.
Georgia: Thanks for clarifying. The quote I supplied above is the Certificate in Clinical Genetics which Brandeis and Simmons clarifies on their own website is not equivalent to the ABMG or ABGC. I’m personally confused as to where a person with a Certificate in Clinical Genetics could work and what kind of advice they could offer without overstepping their bounds. I should follow-up on this by emailing them.
Dr. Lei,
I agree that the word “certificate” is confusing. From a healthcare perspective, a person holding this certificate may not have the requisite clinical experience for an independent position in a genetics unit. If you or other readers are interested in learning more about careers in genetics, the American College of Medical Genetics and the National Society of Genetic Counselors have excellent information on their websites in addition to the ABMG and ABGC sites. (http://www.acmg.net/ or http://www.nsgc.org/).