How to Become a Genetic Counsellor in the UK
Genetic counsellors help patients and families understand inherited conditions and genetic test results. In an NHS clinical genetics service you take detailed family histories, assess the risk of conditions such as inherited cancers or heart disease, explain testing options, support people through difficult results and decisions, and write clear letters to patients and doctors. Work spans cancer, prenatal, paediatric and cardiac genetics.
It is a postgraduate career. You normally need a relevant degree and counselling or healthcare experience, then a specialist Master's or NHS training post. Some move across from nurse or midwife roles.
Quick facts
- Starting salary
- £35,000 - £45,000
- Mid-career salary
- £45,000 - £55,000
- Senior salary
- £60,000 - £75,000
- Work environment
- Hospital, clinic or community setting
- Time to entry
- 3 - 5 years (MSc + training)
- Degree required
- Required (MSc)
- Category
- Healthcare and Care
Compare pay across careers in the UK salaries by career report. Also in: Stable careers.
What a Genetic Counsellor does
Help patients and families understand inherited conditions and the implications of genetic testing.
- Cancer Genetics - Counselling families on hereditary cancer risk.
- Prenatal Genetics - Counselling on prenatal screening and diagnosis.
- Paediatric Genetics - Counselling families with paediatric genetic conditions.
- Cardiac Genetics - Inherited cardiac conditions counselling.
How to become a genetic counsellor in the UK
Most UK genetic counsellors train in one of two ways. The first is a Master's in genetic or genomic counselling at a university. The second is the NHS Scientist Training Programme (STP) in genomic counselling, a three-year salaried NHS training post that includes a Master's. Both usually need a 2:1 or higher in a relevant subject such as biology, genetics, psychology or nursing, plus experience in counselling, support or healthcare roles. After training you build a portfolio of supervised practice and apply for registration with the professional register for genetic counsellors. Places are limited and competitive.
- Get a 2:1 or higher in a relevant degree such as genetics, biology, psychology or nursing, as this is the usual minimum for Master's and STP entry.
- Build counselling or support experience through a job or volunteering with a helpline, patient charity or healthcare team, and take a counselling skills course.
- Ask to shadow or speak to an NHS clinical genetics team so you can show you understand what genetic counsellors actually do day to day.
- Apply for a Master's in genetic counselling or the NHS Scientist Training Programme in genomic counselling, which recruits once a year.
- During training, keep a detailed portfolio of supervised cases, as you need it to apply for professional registration.
- Apply for genetic counsellor posts in NHS regional genetics services, then specialise in an area such as cancer, prenatal or cardiac genetics.
| Route | How long | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| NHS Scientist Training Programme (genomic counselling) | 3 years | Salaried, course fees paid | Graduates wanting paid training |
| Master's in genetic counselling | About 2 years full-time | Postgraduate fees | Graduates who can fund study |
| Move across from nursing or midwifery | Experience, then Master's or STP | Varies | Registered nurses and midwives |
| Relevant degree plus counselling experience | 3-4 years before applying | Tuition fee loan | School leavers planning ahead |
How long it takes
Expect three to five years after your first degree, including gaining counselling experience, completing a Master's or the three-year STP, and building your registration portfolio.
Genetic Counsellor salary in the UK
Trainee and newly qualified genetic counsellors usually earn around £35,000 to £45,000. Registered genetic counsellors with several years' experience earn about £45,000 to £55,000. Principal or consultant genetic counsellors and service leads can earn £60,000 to £75,000. Most posts are in the NHS on Agenda for Change pay bands, so pay depends on your band and length of service, with extra allowances in and around London. A small number of roles exist in private genetic testing companies and research.
Key skills
- Genetics
- Counselling skills
- Empathy
- Reporting
- Family dynamics
Genetic Counsellor FAQs
How do I become a genetic counsellor in the UK?
Get a relevant degree, build counselling or healthcare experience, then complete a Master's in genetic counselling or the NHS Scientist Training Programme in genomic counselling. After supervised practice and a portfolio, you apply for professional registration and genetic counsellor posts in NHS genetics services.
Do you need a degree to be a genetic counsellor?
Yes. You need a first degree, usually a 2:1 or above in a subject such as genetics, biology, psychology or nursing, then postgraduate training in genetic counselling. Counselling skills and experience matter just as much as scientific knowledge when you apply.
How much does a genetic counsellor earn in the UK?
Trainees and new genetic counsellors usually earn £35,000 to £45,000. Experienced registered genetic counsellors earn about £45,000 to £55,000, and principal or consultant genetic counsellors can earn £60,000 to £75,000, mostly on NHS pay bands.
Is a genetic counsellor the same as a clinical geneticist?
No. Clinical geneticists are doctors who have specialised in genetics after medical training, and they diagnose and manage patients. Genetic counsellors are not doctors. They focus on risk assessment, explaining testing and results, and supporting families with decisions.
Is Genetic Counsellor right for you?
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