A general tour of the UAMS Campus can be arranged with the Student Recruiter. The Genetic Counseling program director is also available for individual appointments.
Can I work while completing the Genetic Counseling Program?
We recommend that students not work if at all possible. If they must work, we suggest they limit the number of hours worked per week to not more than 8 hours, preferably on a weekend. It is very difficult to schedule work around clinical time, classes, and additional educational activities.
What hours will I attend school while enrolled in the program?
We advise students that the schedule may be 8:00 to 5:00 Monday thru Fridays.
When do classes begin?
Students are admitted once a year for the fall semester, and classes begin in August.
Should I send a college transcript for all college coursework?
Yes, it is a requirement for admission.
Do I have to have every prerequisite course completed before I can apply for admission?
You may apply if you have a plan to complete the prerequisites prior to matriculation (if offered admisson) and your grade in the pending prerequisite does not eliminate your eligibility.
Who makes a successful genetic counselor? What types of students will do well in this program?
Genetic Counselors are generally highly motivated individuals. They want to advocate strongly for their patients/clients, become valuable members of the health care delivery team, remain on the forefront of the dissemination of genetic knowledge and advancements to the medical community, and participate in the education of the general public. Counselors are intelligent, hard-working, compassionate, and reliable individuals.
Our program is seeking potential genetic counselors who are qualified to take Master’s level science and counseling courses. Ideal candidates are mature, confident, organized, and have excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Candidates will have a strong understanding of genetic counseling, the need for genetic counselors in a variety of settings, and the directions/future of the profession. These insights can be gained by spending time with a practicing genetic counselor in a variety of settings.
How many students generally will apply to this program? How many will be accepted?
The number of students that apply will vary from year to year. In general we receive between 70-80 applications each year. We’re able to admit 8 students each year in the program, with students split between the Little Rock and Fayetteville (NW) campuses during their first year. Two students spend their second year in Louisville, KY.
Students will only be accepted to begin the program in fall semesters.
What is the deadline for application for admission to the program?
December – January: Complete applications are reviewed by UAMS and the program.
February – March: Competitive applicants are invited to interview onsite with the program faculty.
April: The Genetic Counseling Admissions Match date. NMS sets the match date, which can be found here.
What are the most important criteria in considering my application for admission?
We seek students who are genuinely interested in the field of genetic counseling and are involved in activities that evidence this interest. Successful applicants have the required academic scientific background that is vital to understanding of human genetics. An applicant’s overall academic performance is important for acceptance to our program.
Does UAMS offer financial aid?
The College of Health Professions encourages interested applicants to apply for financial aid through the UAMS Financial Aid Office.
Can I visit the program?
Please contact the department at (501) 526-7700 to arrange a visit.
