Genetic Counseling - Brandeis University

Genetic Counseling from Brandeis University is a Campus Master Area Studies degree that prepares you for a Liberal Arts career. The advent of recombinant DNA research, and more recently advances of the Human Genome Project, has produced a revolution in human genetics. Virtually every week, scientists announce the identification or chromosomal location of another gene associated with a human genetic disorder - cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Huntington disease, fragile X syndrome, familial breast cancer and many others. With this new information comes the ability to test for these disorders, both diagnostically and predictively, and, in some cases, to develop new treatment strategies. This recent progress in the area of human genetics has led to a dramatic increase in the number of individuals using genetic services. This number will continue to grow as new tests are developed for carrier detection, and the diagnosis of genetic conditions and genetic susceptibility to disease. Increased information will result in a broader spectrum of choices, responsibilities and decisions. It is predicted that genetic counselors, medical professional with special training in genetics and counseling , will be needed in growing numbers to help families and society cope with the information and psychological implications of this genetic revolution: in hospitals and clinics to counsel families who are affected by or may be at risk for a genetic disorder; in diagnostic laboratories as resource people for physicians and their patients; and in government agencies to design genetic education programs, shape public health policy and develop more effective ways of communicating the many new findings to employers, insurers and the public at large. View more details on Brandeis University . Ask your questions and apply online for this program or find other related Area Studies courses.