Genetic and Genomic Counselling
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This program is pending final approval by the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training.
Degree Offered: Ph.D.
Members
Professors
L. Arbour, J. Austin, J.M. Friedman, W. Gibson, D. Huntsman, S. Jones, S.F. Langlois, L. Lynd, M. van Allen, W. Wasserman.
Associate Professors
A. Elliott, C. Ross.
Program Overview
In addition to the PhD program in medical genetics, the Department of Medical Genetics also offers a PhD degree in Genetic and Genomic Counselling. Unique in the world, this program attracts students from around the globe who are interested in conducting empirical research that will advance the profession and practice of genetic and genomic counselling.
Doctor of Philosophy
Admission Requirements
Students must meet the Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies minimum admission requirements. Students applying to Ph.D. studies in Genetic and Genomic Counselling must hold a M.Sc./MS degree from an accredited genetic counselling training program, and must be board certified/eligible with the Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors (CAGC) or the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC). Comparable training and certification/experience from international students will be considered. Candidates who have not taken MEDG 520 or MEDG 530 (or equivalent(s)) will be required to take these courses.
Admission will be competitive and limited.
Eligibility is based on academic background and achievement, relevant research experience, and letters of recommendation. Academically admissible applicants must also obtain the commitment of a research supervisor in the Department of Medical Genetics before receiving an admission offer from the Program and the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.
Program Requirements
In order to graduate, students are required to pass a comprehensive examination, complete and successfully defend a dissertation that meets the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies guidelines, as well as take 18 credits including MEDG 596 (6), MEDG 548 (6), and 6 credits of relevant electives determined in consultation with the students’ supervisory committee. MEDG 596 must be completed within the first year of the program.
Contact Information
Dr. Alison Elliott, PhD, MS, CGC Associate Professor
Dept of Medical Genetics, UBC BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute Clinical Services Building V3-326
West 28th Avenue Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4
