Study location	Italy, Siena, strada delle Scotte, 4 (Policlinico Santa Maria alle Scotte) - sanitarie.biomediche@unisi.it
Academic field	Medical genetics (JACS C431)
Type	Master's Degree, full-time
Nominal duration	2 years (120 ECTS)
Study language	English
Awards	M (LM-9 Second cycle degree in Pharmaceutical, Veterinary and Medical biotechnologies)

Entry qualification

Bachelor/Undergraduate diploma (or higher) +++ NOTICE +++ This is a restricted-admission program. Prospective students must submit an application, following the guidelines provided on the program’s official website and checking the annual publication of the admission notice for detailed information. Check the link below, in the More Information section. The entry qualification documents are accepted in the following languages: English / Italian. Schools and universities usually provide documentation translated into English. If this is not available, an official translation will be required, along with certification of the authenticity of the original documents. Review the documents required for the admission application at this link: admission.unisi.it/?p=1193 Review the documents required for enrollment (upon admission) at the link admission.unisi.it/?p=1193

Territory requirements	Applications are accepted from the following territories (based on citizenship): World.

Language requirements	English English fluency is required, with a minimum proficiency level of B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). For further information, check the following link admission.unisi.it/?p=1944

More information	genetic-counsellors.unisi.it/en

Overview

The Master’s Degree in Genetic Counseling aims to equip non-medical healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills required to practice as genetic counselors within clinical genetics departments. These departments typically include clinical geneticists holding medical degrees and specialization in medical genetics, operating in both public and private sectors.

The educational program begins by addressing the principles of genetics and medical genetics, with a primary focus on these topics during the first year of study. In this year, students are also introduced to the legal and regulatory aspects that influence the interpretation of new knowledge about the human genome. Additionally, the curriculum explores all major areas of genetic counseling, such as prenatal, preconceptional, pediatric, and adult counseling, incorporating the most up-to-date diagnostic and therapeutic advancements available for genetic disorders.

Building on this foundation, the second year emphasizes counseling techniques, with particular attention to the psychological implications of diagnosing genetic disorders for both individuals and families. Throughout the program, students benefit from the expertise of highly qualified professionals from both Italy and abroad.

The program has been accredited by the European Board of Medical Genetics (EBMG)

Key objectives of the program include:

• Mastery of the principles and practices of genetics (BIO/18), medical genetics, and laboratory genetics.
• A thorough understanding of the psychosocial aspects of genetics, as well as the development of interpersonal skills (emphasizing “how to be”) and practical expertise in conducting genetic counseling sessions (emphasizing “how to do”).
• Proficiency in communication techniques necessary for effectively conducting genetic counseling sessions.

Throughout the program, theoretical learning is closely integrated with practical training. Curricular internships provide opportunities to apply and refine the skills needed for genetic counseling, forming a critical component of the educational pathway. Practical activities in counseling sessions are particularly emphasized, helping students develop decision-making abilities, operational autonomy, and management skills, alongside strong patient communication competencies. Special attention is given to fostering teamwork and multidisciplinary collaboration, as well as adhering to best clinical practices in medical genetics.

At the conclusion of the program, graduates are expected to effectively support clinical geneticists in key areas of genetic counseling and independently conduct counseling sessions where a clinical evaluation or diagnosis is not required. These include prenatal genetic counseling, preconceptional and infertility counseling, and oncogenetic counseling.

Finally, the preparation and defense of the thesis serve as a comprehensive evaluation of students’ abilities to conduct bibliographic research and engage in experimental and clinical activities.

Program structure

MUR degree class: LM-9 Pharmaceutical, Veterinary and Medical biotechnologies
Duration in years: 2
Credits: 120
Language: English

Career opportunities

Graduates of the Master’s Degree in Genetic Counseling are prepared for careers in both private and public institutions that provide genetic counseling services. They are equipped to work as genetic counseling assistants, supporting clinical geneticists in various areas of genetic counseling. Additionally, they can independently conduct genetic counseling sessions that do not require a clinical evaluation or diagnosis, such as in the fields of prenatal counseling, preconception and infertility counseling, and oncogenetic counseling.

Their skills and expertise make them valuable in multidisciplinary healthcare teams, where they apply their knowledge of genetics, medical genetics, and laboratory genetics. With training in psychosocial methodologies and patient communication, they are adept at fostering empathy and building relationships with patients, ensuring that genetic counseling is conducted with sensitivity and professionalism.

These competencies open career paths in:

• Hospitals and clinical genetics departments
• Private clinics specializing in reproductive health, oncology, or genetic diagnostics
• Research institutions focused on medical genetics
• Public health services offering genetic counseling programs
• Graduates may also pursue roles in educational outreach or contribute to policy development in genetics and genomics, leveraging their comprehensive understanding of the field.